BAE Systems closing body armor manufacturing plant

SCRANTON, Pa., Aug. 24 (UPI) -- BAE Systems is ceasing production of helmets and body armor at its Protection Systems' plant in Jessup, Pa., and closing the facility.

The Times-Tribune newspaper , quoting company officials, said production at the plant will end next month, with final closing in December.

A total off 111 employees will be affected by the action. The newspaper quoted company spokeswoman company spokesperson Megan Mitchell as saying laid off employees will be entitled to a severance package based on longevity.

The closing is apparently the result of lessening demand for individual soldier protection equipment following the drawdown of U.S. military combat personnel deployed overseas.

"Any vacancy up there is a concern to all of us," said Eugene Varzaly, chairman of Jessup Borough's planning commission. "I'm disappointed that they're going to be moving out, but we'll work with whatever industry is interested in coming into the plant."