United Defense wins $33.8 million international order.

YORK, Pa.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Dec. 19, 1994--United Defense, L.P.'s Combat Systems Division in York, has received its first international order for the new M88 Improved Recovery Vehicle (IRV).

The 14-vehicle, Foreign Military Sales (FMS) order, placed by the State of Kuwait through the U.S. Government, carries a potential value of up to $33.8 million, pending final price negotiations. The order raises the number of IRVs now under contract to 42 vehicles, following two recent U.S. Army orders.

The award reflects Kuwait's continuing efforts to rebuild and strengthen its defense forces following the Gulf War. Kuwait's selection of the M88 IRV complements an earlier decision to purchase the M1 Abrams tank, the current main battle tank of the U.S. Army. With its improved winching system and added horsepower, the M88 IRV is expressly designed to support heavy armored vehicles like the M1 Abrams.

Deliveries are scheduled into early 1997, adding to the production levels already established under the Army orders. Also included are requirements for selected initial spare parts.

United Defense, L.P. is the largest manufacturer and systems integrator of tracked, armored combat vehicles in the United States, and a supplier to the security forces of Allied Nations. Combining FMC Defense Systems and Harsco Corp.'s BMY Combat Systems Division. United Defense is a limited partnership, with FMC Corp. owning 60% and Harsco owning 40%. United Defense operates eight manufacturing sites in six states, participates in joint ventures in five countries, and provides services to customers worldwide.

CONTACT: United Defense, L.P., York

Kenneth D. Julian, 717/225-8004