The Latvian military has awarded a contract to British firm Avon Protection to supply an unspecified number of gas masks.
In a press release, the company revealed that the Latvian armed forces specifically want the FM50 gas mask system, which includes filters, spare parts, and accessories.
Avon vice president Steve Elwell remarked that the company is pleased to continue supporting NATO members to enhance their chemical, biological, radioactive, and nuclear (CBRN) protection and enable “greater interoperability.”
“The growth of both new partners to the framework such as Latvia and increasing deployment of capability to existing partners demonstrates the continued confidence and reliance on Avon Protection to supply products of the highest quality and performance to protect armed forces around the world,” Elwell said.
Potential Use
The equipment will be used to protect Latvian defense personnel from a variety of CBRN threats often encountered in modern warfare, anti-terrorism, and peacekeeping operations.
The FM50 mask features a twin filter conformal system, reportedly providing users with high protection and very low breathing resistance, making it comfortable to use during military missions.
Additionally, the gas mask provides “outstanding vision” to soldiers due to Avon’s new wide panoramic flexible visor, which incorporates both visual clarity and integral durability.
The contract makes Latvia the latest nation to order the FM50 gas mask system in addition to Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Lithuania, Norway, and the Netherlands.