Force Protection extends agreement with South African technology partner

Force Protection, Inc. (OTCBB:FRPT) today announced that it has reached an agreement with MECHEM, a division of DENEL (Pty) Ltd of South Africa, to extend the term of their relationship for an additional five years effective September 13, 2006.

Under the agreement, MECHEM, an organization that specializes in the supply of landmine detection, de-mining, and unexploded ordnance disposal equipment and services, will continue to work exclusively with Force Protection on all projects relating to the exploitation of its technology.

“We are extremely pleased to continue this important relationship,” said Force Protection CEO Gordon McGilton. “As a world leader in the field of humanitarian de-mining, MECHEM has unequaled knowledge and expertise in the detection, removal and defeat of all types of explosive devices. They will be an invaluable resource to Force Protection’s expanding R&D initiatives.”

Force Protection manufactures the Cougar and Buffalo mine-protected vehicles that have been deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan since 2003. Despite thousands of mine detonations and IED attacks, no fatalities have occurred in a Force Protection vehicle.

About MECHEM

MECHEM, a division of DENEL (Pty) Ltd (South Africa), specializes in the supply of landmine detection, de-mining and unexploded ordnance disposal equipment, services and consulting. It was established in the late 1960’s, originally as a research unit of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) in South Africa, culminating into a division of DENEL (South Africa). MECHEM has been involved in the research