General Atomics

NP Aerospace partners with United Shield on EOD protection systems

Building on their inherent synergies, the two companies aim to extend delivery and support of the 4030 ELITE Bomb Suit and Helmet System as a proven Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) protection solution for security and defence forces.

James Kempston and Brian Banducci
Above: (left to right) James Kempston, CEO, NP Aerospace and Brian Banducci, President, United Shield International. Photo: NP Aerospace

Coventry armour manufacturer, NP Aerospace, has formed a strategic partnership with United Shield International, a US manufacturer and specialist provider of advanced ballistic and blast protection solutions for law enforcement and military customers.

The partnership brings together two complementary businesses that will strengthen the delivery and through-life support for the NP Aerospace 4030 ELITE Bomb Suit and Helmet System across the US and international law enforcement markets. It serves to combine NP Aerospace’s advanced protective technology and EOD suit capabilities with United Shield International’s specialist law enforcement expertise, established customer networks and dedicated US-based sales and support infrastructure.

Streamlining access and training for bomb disposal specialists

Together, the two organisations aim to provide bomb disposal units with streamlined access to the 4030 ELITE system, underpinned by comprehensive technical assistance and operational training.

Photo: NP Aerospace

Certified to the rigorous US National Institute of Justice (NIJ) 0117.01 Public Safety Bomb Suit Standard, the 4030 ELITE Bomb Suit and Helmet System is an established solution for global public safety and military agencies. It delivers advanced blast resistance and operational performance alongside exceptional mobility and comfort and is available in five sizes. This strategic alliance signals a shared commitment to delivering innovative technology backed by expert through-lifecycle support.

Extensive testing and quality control standards

This partnership is designed to provide access to one of only two companies with a bomb suit that meets the NIJ-certified level of accreditation, providing an extensively tested, quality-controlled and audited product.

In addition, the collaboration will utilise United Shield International’s dedicated US-based service support, enhanced product demonstrations and training, ensuring responsive aftermarket support designed to maximise operational readiness.

Photo: NP Aerospace

How proven EOD engineering expertise is underpinning innovation

James Kemptston, CEO NP Aerospace, said: “NP Aerospace has established an international reputation for engineering innovative, high-performance EOD protective systems designed to address the dynamic requirements of bomb disposal technicians.

“Aligning with United Shield International marks a pivotal advancement in amplifying the calibre of support accessible to our US Law Enforcement personnel, uniting deep technical engineering expertise with localised operational presence. As modern bomb squads evolve their capabilities, agencies increasingly prioritise trusted partnerships, agile support and long-term asset sustainment alongside core product efficacy. This alliance underscores our mutual dedication to safeguarding those who serve, delivering pioneering solutions reinforced by seasoned EOD engineering professionals.”

Brian Banducci, President of United Shield International, said: “Bomb technicians operate within the most demanding environments in public safety, necessitating the best equipment backed by exemplary customer support.

“Through this strategic partnership with NP Aerospace, we are integrating world-class bomb protection systems with a dedicated through-life support framework designed to serve US law enforcement agencies throughout every stage of procurement and subsequent deployment. Our shared objective is to cultivate an enduring partnership, providing operators with the absolute confidence that expert technical assistance remains continuously accessible.”

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