Melksham-based Avon Technologies plc is seeing growing demand from NATO countries for its advanced protective masks, as allied forces respond to the increased threat of chemical agents in Ukraine.
The company supplies respiratory and head protection for military and emergency services. Its FM50 and C50 protective masks are now in increasing demand from allied nations seeking to strengthen their defences against chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) threats.
For several months, Avon Technologies has been sending protective equipment to Ukraine following accusations by the US State Department that Russian forces are using hazardous chemicals on the battlefield, including tear gas and the choking agent chloropicrin — a substance first deployed during World War One.
The FM50 is one of the most advanced general service masks in use by militaries today, offering a high level of protection along with improved comfort and usability. It is widely used by NATO forces, including the US military.
“Heightened global instability continues to drive defence and security spending across the world,” said chief executive officer of Avon Technologies Jos Sclater.
“Russia is increasingly using drones to drop chemical gas weapons on the Ukrainian troops. These tactics are likely to drive home the need for all militaries to have excellent chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear protection for many years to come.”
He added that the company has seen “substantial growth in orders from NATO countries” as armed forces look to upgrade their protective equipment. Avon Technologies is also experiencing increased demand in North America for its protective gear as governments invest more in border and homeland security.
Pictured: Avon Technologies gas masks
