Vermont Contractor Settles for $426K Over Foreign Parts in Military Eyewear

A Vermont-based military contractor, Revision Military Ltd., has agreed to pay a $426,000 settlement for using foreign-sourced materials in protective eyewear sold through a U.S. defense program. The violation of the Berry Amendment, which mandates the use of domestic materials in defense products, has raised concerns about the integrity of government programs and the reliability of military equipment.

The settlement, announced by the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Vermont, stems from Revision's use of foreign components in carrying pouches, cases, and straps for certain eyewear systems sold through the Special Operational Equipment Tailored Logistics Support (SOE TLS) Program between 2016 and 2020. The company acknowledged these impermissible sales and the use of non-compliant components in products sold through the SOE TLS Program.

The Berry Amendment, enacted in 1941, requires the U.S. government to give preference to products made and sourced in America. The amendment aims to support domestic industries, maintain national security, and ensure the quality and reliability of military equipment. Revision's use of foreign parts in its protective eyewear products raised concerns about functionality and compliance, as the foreign components may not have met the same quality standards as U.S.-sourced materials.



Following the settlement, Revision has taken steps to ensure compliance with the Berry Amendment and prevent future violations. The company's new owners have implemented improved compliance measures, replaced employees responsible for overseeing product sourcing, and cooperated with the government investigation. These efforts demonstrate a commitment to rectifying past mistakes and maintaining future compliance with government regulations.

The settlement highlights the importance of adherence to defense procurement policies, as violations can lead to severe legal consequences and reputational damage for defense contractors. In this case, Revision's use of foreign parts in its protective eyewear products raised concerns about the integrity of government programs and the reliability of military equipment. The company's cooperation with the investigation and implementation of improved compliance measures may help mitigate the damage to its reputation and maintain its position in defense procurement programs.



In conclusion, the $426,000 settlement paid by Revision Military Ltd. serves as a reminder of the importance of compliance with defense procurement regulations. The use of foreign parts in protective eyewear products raised concerns about functionality and compliance, potentially impacting the integrity of government programs and the reliability of military equipment. As defense contractors continue to operate in this complex landscape, adherence to regulations and a commitment to transparency and accountability are essential for maintaining trust with government agencies and industry peers.