PHOENIX, Dec. 16 (UPI) -- BAE Systems will inspect and repair used Enhanced Small Arms Protective Insert plates for U.S. soldiers under a Readiness and Sustainment contract modification.

The contract modification is valued at $6.3 million.

BAE said the work will include inspecting ESAPI plates for damage and replacing the outside spall covers, which are used to contain debris upon impact.

Upon completion of the work, the plates will be returned to the U.S. Army.

"BAE Systems is prepared to support the Army and Army National Guard in satisfying short-term needs for the warfighter," said Keith Briem, manager of Readiness and Sustainment for BAE Systems' Personnel Protection Systems.

"Our readiness and sustainment program is designed to help reset equipment for future deployments. This may include refurbishing helmets, soft and hard armor, Modular Lightweight Load Carrying Equipment, other ancillary items and all forms of Organizational Clothing and Individual Equipment."

ESAPI plates provide multiple hit protection from small arms projectiles.

BAE Systems' Personnel Protection Systems is the original equipment manufacturer of small arms protective insert plates and its derivatives. The $6.3 million contract modification is part of an existing contract issued in October 2008 and will be performed through a series of delivery orders.