December 16, 2009 (FinancialWire) — The U.S. Army Tank and Automotive Command has awarded General Dynamics Land Systems, a business unit of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD), a contract worth $14 million to purchase long-lead materials for the production of 140 M1A1 “Situational Awareness” tanks for the Iraq program.

The SA enhancements to the M1A1 for Iraq include a second-generation forward-looking infrared thermal sight, a driver’s vision-enhancer thermal viewer and Tank Urban Survivability Kit improvements, which are meant to provide better crew protection in urban warfare environments.

In addition, engines developed through the Army’s Total Integrated Engine Revitalization program will be installed and pulse-jet filter cleaning systems added in an effort to improve performance while reducing maintenance requirements and costs.

Virginia-based General Dynamics employs approximately 92,300 people worldwide.

FinancialWire(tm) is a fully independent, proprietary news wire service. FinancialWire(tm) is not a press release service, and receives no compensation for its news, opinions or distributions. Further disclosure is at the FinancialWire(tm) web site (http://www.financialwire.net/disclosures.php). Contact FinancialWire(tm) directly via inquiries@financialwire.net.

Free annual reports for companies mentioned in the news are available through the Free Annual Reports Service (http://investrend.ar.wilink.com/?level=279).