General Dynamics consolidates two Combat Systems businesses

General Dynamics will consolidate General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products into General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems by the end of 2013.

Both businesses are within the company’s Combat Systems business group, which saw almost a 20 percent decrease in revenue during first quarter, leading the company to this decision, FedBiz Daily reported.

"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,” said Mark Roualet, executive vice president of Combat Systems.

Michael Wilson, current president of General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems, has been tapped to lead the consolidated organization, which will be headquartered in St. Petersburg, Fla.

The Charlotte, N.C., headquarters of General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products will be closed through this consolidation by the end of 2013, the company said in a release. The consolidation effort will likely include layoffs, FedBiz Daily quoted company spokesperson Rob Doolittle as saying.

The two businesses together employ around 6,000 workers.

Armament and Technical Products designs, develops and products weapon, armament and vehicle survivability systems for the military and allies.

Ordnance and Tactical Systems manufactures large, medium- and small-caliber munitions, mortar weapons and systems, artillery projectiles, and other similar products.