Hardwire LLC, a defense manufacturer based in Pocomoke City, Maryland, has been awarded a $416 million federal contract to produce protective gear for the U.S. Army. The long-term agreement covers the production of Lares Small Arms Protective Inserts (LSAPI), part of the Army’s Vital Torso Protection (VTP) program.
The contract was formally announced by the Department of Defense on March 14, and later publicized by Rep. Andy Harris (R-MD 1st District), who called the award a major boost for national defense and the regional economy.
“Hardwire advances the readiness, lethality, and protection of the American warfighter,” Harris said. “Their work is critical to both our military and our local workforce.”
Lightweight Armor for Modern Soldiers
The VTP initiative is part of the Army’s broader push to upgrade body armor systems for greater efficiency, customization, and comfort. The Lares inserts—named after ancient Roman guardian spirits—represent the lightest of three approved variants, designed to reduce weight while maintaining ballistic protection.
According to an Army spokesperson, these plates are tailored to better fit soldiers with smaller body types, such as short-statured men and petite women. The goal is to move beyond the traditional “one-size-fits-all” approach to body armor.
Army Vice Chief of Staff Gen. James Mingus testified earlier this month that the new inserts being developed by companies like Hardwire are expected to be about 30% lighter than standard-issue armor. This weight reduction directly contributes to improved agility and mobility for troops in combat.
Built in Maryland, Serving Worldwide
Founded in 2000 by George Tunis, Hardwire originally focused on protective solutions for bridges and infrastructure. Following the September 11 terrorist attacks, the company expanded into personal protective gear for military and law enforcement use—a pivot that’s fueled steady growth.
Today, Hardwire operates out of a 130,000-square-foot facility in downtown Pocomoke City. It manufactures a range of ballistic protection solutions, including body armor for soldiers, shields for tactical police units, helicopter armor, and even bulletproof materials for U.S. transportation infrastructure and school safety.
Tunis, Hardwire’s CEO, praised the new Army contract:
“This is a win-win for the warfighter, the defense industrial base, and the Eastern Shore workforce,” said Tunis. “I couldn’t be more proud of the Hardwire team and their gritty perseverance. This contract supports full-time, family-sustaining jobs in our community.”
Flexible Contract Through 2032
The agreement is classified as an Indefinite Delivery-Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract, which allows the Army to place orders as needed through 2032. The $416 million figure represents the contract ceiling—not a guaranteed amount—giving the military flexibility while ensuring Hardwire remains a key supplier over the next several years.
All ballistic plates will undergo testing at Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland to meet performance and durability standards.
A Shared Award
Hardwire is one of two contractors selected for this VTP body armor program. The other awardee is Leading Technology Composites Inc., a defense manufacturer based in Wichita, Kansas. Both companies were chosen through a competitive online bidding process.
