Aegis Announces Human Effectiveness Study with MK63 Stun Device and ARDEC, US Army.

CAMBRIDGE, Mass. -- Aegis Industries Inc., a manufacturer of stun devices and Intermediate Force Options (IFO(R)), announces initiation of human effectiveness studies using the Aegis proprietary MK63 Multi Sensory Device (MK63 MSD). The study is being conducted as part of a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) with the US Army Armament Research, Development and Engineering Center (ARDEC) located at the Picatinny Arsenal, Picatinny, NJ. The research with human subjects is planned as a phased series of studies with Aegis proprietary human electro-muscular incapacitation devices (HEMI) and waveforms.

According to Bruno D.V. Marino, PhD, Aegis Chief Scientist and CRADA project director, "These studies mark the transition from animal to human research and the next important step in the rigorous documentation of safety and effectiveness for the MK63." The MK63 HEMI device will produce both discomfort and electromuscular stimulation when contacted. With short exposures, the MK63 is expected to deter individuals at close-quarters. With continued exposure, the MK63 is expected to incapacitate individuals. The effectiveness of this intermediate force option will be examined by the ARDEC's Target Behavioral Response Laboratory (TBRL) in conjunction with the Stress & Motivated Behavior Institute (SMBI) of the New Jersey Medical School. "Our goal is to revolutionize the HEMI industry by developing a family of devices with a range of tactically relevant behavioral outcomes," remarked Dr. Marino.

The MK63 MSD employs a relatively low voltage, proprietary waveform in a close-quarter system that combines traditional baton elements with modular accessories including acoustic, green laser dazzler, and pepper spray options. The MK63 is designed for use in the domestic and foreign military and civil law enforcement sectors. In addition, the MK63 can be utilized by the private security industry, including security response teams, correctional facilities and riot control forces as well as the aviation and maritime industries. The MK63 can be quickly configured for crowd control with an extension rod and T-handle outfitted with pepper spray. The MK63, designed by Aegis founder, CEO and retired US Navy Seal, Kenneth J. Stethem, is a multi-mission IFO that facilitates the transition up and down the force continuum.

Aegis Industries, Inc. has called for increased scientific studies in support of HEMI device usage and related use-of-force policy. "Our approach to the development of IFO's is science-based with a `medical-before-marketing' philosophy," remarked Stethem. A comprehensive health effects and safety study for the Mk63 was completed in Dec. 2005. Aegis plans to launch sales of the MK63 to the military and law enforcement sectors in the latter part of 2006.

Aegis Industries, Inc., the emerging market leader, specializes in the design and development of intermediate force options for the military, law enforcement, corrections, and the private security industry. You can learn more about Aegis Industries at www.aegisarmor.com.