Business Weekly - Cambridge, UK

Richmond EEI is a leading manufacturer of disruptors and other equipment for the safe neutralisation of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and unexploded ordnance.

Its patented recoilless disruptors fire a projectile or jet of water into the firing circuits of an IED to neutralise it without detonation and can be fitted to even small bomb disposal robots using Richmond's precision aiming and mounting systems.

Richmond also makes IED search equipment and a range of tools for remote dismantling and neutralising unexploded ordnance which facilitate the reconstruction of conflict zones.

"The company supplies vital technology to Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) end users and robot manufacturers which enables the safe, remote neutralisation of IEDs and unexploded ordnance," said David Price, CEO at Chemring.

"The growing global IED threat and creation of new military and homeland security bomb disposal teams will further extend the opportunity for our range of EOD products over the next few years."

The acquisition of Richmond from a private individual supports Chemring's strategy of building a strong presence in the EOD and IED defeat markets and complements the EOD equipment and consumables produced by Chemring's current Energetics businesses.

Richmond also has strong relationships with the leading suppliers of bomb disposal robots, which adds a new channel to market for the group's products.

In the year ended September 30, Richmond generated pbt of £1.5m on turnover of £5.8m.

Chemring generated £31.8m in pre-tax profits on £187.7m revenues in 2006 and employs over 2,500 people at 19 operations worldwide.