Armor Holdings Acquires Integrated Textile Systems

Armor Holdings has acquired Integrated Textile Systems (ITS), a Monroe, N.C.-based manufacturer of the high-strength material Tensylon.

Tensylon, derived from an ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene polymer, has a wide variety of applications, including advanced fiber composites for use in ballistic products. Tensylon high-performance fiber or tape can be processed into any number of specialty tailored composites, depending on the unique application. This acquisition will allow Armor Holdings to develop complete solutions for emerging blast and ballistic threats by starting with the base material.

Dr. Tony Russell, chief technology officer of Armor Holdings, says, “Tensylon has the capability to be a significant new material in the survivability industry. The Tensylon manufacturing process is much cleaner than the manufacture of other ballistic fibers, and Tensylon's low-cost nature could provide Armor Holdings with an important competitive advantage in producing new, advanced, light-weight vehicle armoring solutions. Similar advantages could also be realized in the future development of soldier equipage solutions.”

For more information on Tensylon and Armor Holdings, visit www.armorholdings.com.