BAE Systems Closes Tenn. Plant, Cuts 173 Jobs

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — Defense contractor BAE Systems said it is permanently closing its manufacturingplant in East Tennessee in a move that will eliminate 173 jobs.

The plant in Grainger County made body armor for the military.

Joe Coltman, vice president of personnel protection systems, said in a statement provided to the Knoxville News Sentinel that the permanent closure would be effective Friday.

The company said that severance packages will be offered to all regular, full-time employees and they will also have the opportunity to apply for jobs elsewhere with BAE.