General Dynamics consolidates two combat systems businesses

Falls Church-based General Dynamics announced Monday it was consolidating its armament and technical products business into its ordnance and tactical systems business.

“In the face of changing demand in some of our markets and increasing competition across the board, we have determined that consolidation is the best way to maintain the competitiveness and profitability of these lines of business. This move will enable us to achieve greater efficiencies in operations and create more opportunities for growth,” Mark C. Roualet, executive vice president of the combat systems group for General Dynamics, said in a statement.

The combined organization will be led by Michael S. Wilson, president of General Dynamics Ordnance And Tactical Systems. The company’s headquarters will be in St. Petersburg, Fla. General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products headquarters in Charlotte, N.C. will close by the end of the year as a result of the consolidation.

General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products produces weapon, armament and vehicle survivability systems for the U.S. military and its allies; composite structures for the commercial, aerospace and defense markets; and axles, suspension systems and components for commercial trucks, military vehicles and industrial off-highway machines. The company employs approximately 2,500 workers.

General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems is a manufacturer of large, medium- and small-caliber munitions, mortar weapons and systems, artillery projectiles, bomb bodies, propellants, non-lethal and force-protection products. The company also manufactures precision metal components; provides explosive load, assemble and pack services for a variety of munitions, tactical missile and rocket programs; and designs and produces shaped charge warheads and control actuator systems. The company employs about 3,500 workers.