Dingell helps Ann Arbor Company Win 2 Big Defense Contracts and Create New Jobs
December, 2003
Washington, DC - Congressman John D. Dingell (MI-15) is pleased to announce two large U.S. military contracts for Ann Arbor-based EOTech Inc. The company will produce more than 60,000 HOLOgraphic Weapon Sights (HWS) for U.S. Special Operations Command and close to 2,000 for Marine Corps units deployed in active war zones. The total value of the two contracts comes to more than $17 million dollars.
Already many of the soldiers in the Iraq and Afghanistan theatres are using weapon platforms equipped with the EOTech weapon sight. Their reviews, as well as successful deployments and usage in the field, were major reasons for the military's decision to make the large order of additional sights and move toward standardization.
"This is a product helping our troops in our current conflicts," Dingell said. "With national security a top priority, I think this is a good purchase for our soldiers. We already know the product works and can do the job we need. Anything that will make our troops more effective and safer is worth the money spent."
According to the company, the HOLOgraphic Weapon sight delivers lightning quick speed gains in tactical close quarter, firefight situations where fractions of a second mean live or death. Additional key benefits include: un-compromising use of the soldier's peripheral vision, compatibility with fielded night vision systems, leaves no muzzle side, position revealing signature, and is packaged in a compact, durable unit. Now deployed with elite Special Forces and SWAT teams the world over, the HWS delivers vastly improved shooting performance for all level of operator. The sight even works when covered in mud and snow or when the viewing window is broken.
Besides the benefits for national security, the contracts will also create new jobs in Ann Arbor. In the next 6 months EOTech expects to hire as many as 40 more people, increasing the company's employment roles by more than 50 percent and all hires will be into the Ann Arbor factory.
The HOLOgraphic Weapon Sights are made in Ann Arbor, and 70 percent of the parts and components in the weapon sight are made by workers in Michigan and Johnstown, Pennsylvania.
"I am very pleased about EOTech's success," Dingell said. "This is a company creating innovative products, made here in America. EOTech's work will also help our Marines and U.S. Special Forces in the war zones of Iraq and Afghanistan do what they need to do. I think we will hear more about EOTech in the years to come."
Congressman Dingell and EOTech's CEO also praised Pennsylvania Congressman John Murtha (PA-12) and Michigan Senator Carl Levin for their help in getting the funding that has been vital to EOTech's success.
Richard Berger, President & CEO of EOTech said: "EOTech is very proud and very excited to have been selected for important contracts with the United States Army and the United States Marine Corp. Without the tireless efforts and support of Congressman Dingell, Congressman Murtha and Senator Levin - who all ensured that funds were made available for this important mission - EOTech would have been unable to supply our fighting men and women with the Ôstate of the art' product that they need and deserve. These contracts will not only help to create well paying jobs in southwestern Michigan but will help to save the lives of our troops as well as help them to conduct their jobs more efficiently. EOTech, as well as our fighting forces, thank Congressmen Dingell, Murtha and Senator Levin for their support."
Senator Levin added: "EOTech's HOLOgraphic Weapon Sights are greatly assisting our soldiers engaged in combat. The Pentagon's contract with EOTech confirms what we have long known - that EOTech's advanced technology and skilled workforce play a vital role in the defense of our nation."
For further information from EOTech please contact Van Donohue, Vice President, at EOTech, at 734-741-8868, ext 3661.
