Spartan Motors Chassis, a subsidiary of Spartan Motors, has received a subcontract order from defense contractor BAE Systems to support the production of 32 Armored Utility Vehicles under the mine resistant ambush protected (MRAP) program.

As per the subcontract, the US-based custom chassis manufacturer will supply and integrate key chassis components for the US Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) MRAP vehicles for delivery beginning in March 2011 and continuing through July 2011.

Additionally, Spartan will support suspension upgrades for enhanced mobility of more than 200 MRAP variants previously produced by BAE Systems.

In addition to this contract, Spartan continues its ongoing support of MRAP prime contractors and the US Government by providing spare/replacement parts for many of the MRAP vehicles built at Spartan since 2005.

Spartan Motors president and CEO John Sztykiel said that this subcontract is another win for their US forces that are in harm's way.

"Countering the significant threat posed by improvised explosive devices remains a constant battle every day in Afghanistan," Sztykiel said.

"Just as in Iraq, these specialized armored vehicles will assist our servicemen and women in accomplishing their missions safely. Subcontract awards such as this one validate the technical innovation and operational strengths of Spartan's defense and government business unit."

Spartan Motors Chassis is a provider of engineering, manufacturing and marketing of chassis and aftermarket parts for emergency-response, outdoor recreation/RV, defense and specialty vehicles.