DPE portfolio company Mehler Systems acquires majority stake in MARS Armor to strengthen its presence in Eastern Europe

Fulda, Germany, 29.10.2026 – Mehler Systems, an international group bringing together expertise in ballistic protection, tactical equipment and tactical clothing, has signed today an agreement to buy a majority stake in MARS Armor, a Bulgarian manufacturer of personal ballistic protection solutions. The acquisition strengthens the group’s presence in Eastern Europe, adds complementary products and capabilities, reinforces its EU-based supply chain and brings it closer to customers in the region.

Based in Kostinbrod, Bulgaria, MARS Armor develops and manufactures protection equipment for military, law enforcement and government users. Its portfolio includes ballistic vests, hard and soft armour inserts, helmets, shields and protective equipment for demining applications. The company also has in-house ballistic and stab-resistance testing capabilities.

MARS Armor extends the group’s reach to new customers and use cases, broadening its portfolio with additional NIJ-standard protection systems and products such as demining suits. Customers in MARS Armor’s target markets will also gain access to complementary products from across Mehler Systems.

Commenting on the acquisition, Dr. Mario Amschlinger, CEO of Mehler Systems, said: “Growing internationally means investing in local businesses with the expertise and relationships to support customers over the long term. MARS Armor gives us a strong foundation for that next phase of growth in Eastern Europe.”

MARS Armor will continue to operate under its established brand and current leadership, with the backing of Mehler Systems Group. The group is committed to supporting MARS Armor’s capabilities in Bulgaria, with a customer centric approach focused on the company’s established and future target markets.

Plamen Tashkov, CEO of MARS Armor, said: “We bring our experience, products and customer relationships to Mehler Systems. We look forward to building on these strengths and contributing to the group’s development with a strengthened portfolio in Eastern Europe and beyond.”
The acquisition marks a further step in Mehler Systems’ international growth strategy. Through targeted acquisitions, the group is expanding its footprint in key markets and strengthening the reach and resilience of its supply chain.

About MARS Armor
MARS Armor is a Bulgarian manufacturer of personal ballistic protection equipment with more than 20 years of experience and a presence in over 40 countries. The company combines design, manufacturing and testing to deliver protection solutions tailored to the requirements of military, law enforcement and government customers.
For more information, visit www.marsarmor.com.

About Mehler Systems
Mehler Systems Group is an international and global leader dedicated to exceptional ballistic protection and tactical-gear solutions for law enforcement, the military, and special forces. The Mehler Systems Group is home to the brands of Mehler Protection, Craig International Ballistics, Lindnerhof, and UF PRO. Mehler Protection is known for its body and platform armour solutions, UF PRO is an expert in top-tier tactical garment systems, while Lindnerhof stands out for its innovative carrying solutions and tactical equipment. With a presence in over 40 countries, Mehler Systems has established itself as a leader, known for its innovation and dedication to raising the bar in the industry over the past four decades.
For more information about Mehler Systems, please visit www.mehler-systems.com