Mehler Systems buys majority stake in Bulgaria's MARS Armor
What's the deal? Mehler SystemsDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom → has signed an agreement to buy a majority stake in MARS Armor, a Bulgarian maker of personal ballistic protection. The German group — which spans ballistic protection, tactical equipment and tactical clothing — did not disclose the deal value.
Who is MARS Armor? Based in Kostinbrod, Bulgaria, it develops and manufactures protection gear for military, law enforcement and government users. Its portfolio spans ballistic vests, hard and soft armour inserts, helmets, shields, and demining equipment, backed by in-house ballistic and stab-resistance testing.
What's the endgame? The acquisition extends Mehler's reach in Eastern Europe, adds NIJ-standard protection systems and demining suits to its range, and reinforces its EU-based supply chain. MARS Armor keeps its brand and current leadership.
Why it matters: Eastern Europe is a strategically important market for defense and security suppliers. The deal brings local production and customer access rather than relying on exports alone.
"Growing internationally means investing in local businesses with the expertise and relationships to support customers over the long term," said Mario Amschlinger, chief executive officer of Mehler Systems. MARS Armor CEO Plamen Tashkov said the company would contribute "a strengthened portfolio in Eastern Europe and beyond."
The signal: This is Mehler's third acquisition in little over a year, following a majority stake in Italy's SXP in September 2025 and an agreed deal for Australia's Craig International BallisticsDealroom has a profile for this one. Try Dealroom → in April 2026. The buy-and-build pattern points to a group assembling local footholds across key defense markets.
Read more: soldiersystems.net
Image credit: Generated with Gemini
