Force Protection, Inc. Signs Contract with U.S. Army for 21 Buffalo Mine Protected Clearance Vehicles
Thursday June 3, 9:01 am ET

CHARLESTON, S.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 3, 2004--Force Protection, Inc. (OTCBB:FRCP - News) announced today that the U.S. Army has signed a contract to purchase 21 Buffalo Mine Protected Clearance Vehicles (MPCVs) from the company's Technical Solutions Group (TSG) subsidiary. The estimated value of this contract is $15.3 million with an initial release of $7.6 million. The balance of the contract is expected to be released by October 2004. In addition to the 21 Buffalo vehicles, the contract provides for the purchase of steel wheels, disc rollers and a wide range of spare parts. The estimated completion date of the contract is year-end 2004.
TSG has previously supplied the Army with 13 Buffalos. "We believe that the Buffalo is the finest vehicle of its kind in the world and the Army's purchase of additional Buffalos appears to corroborate this belief," said Michael Watts, Force Protection, Inc.'s CEO. "The repeat order demonstrates the success of the vehicles deployed in the Middle East."

Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina added, "Our men and women in uniform deserve the best equipment and training available. The Buffalo will help protect our soldiers from landmines and roadside bombs as they carry out their duties in Iraq and Afghanistan. It's an important vehicle helping our soldiers fulfill critical missions."

TSG's Buffalo is a highly advanced Mine Resistant Vehicle with multiple mission configurations and specially designed field reparability. TSG has combined a proprietary capsule design with American automotive expertise to produce a vehicle with superior blast protection, visibility, load carrying capacity, interior space and parts availability.

The unique technology of the Buffalo protects the vehicle and occupants against small arms fire, multiple anti-personnel mines and anti-tank mines. The steel wheels and disc rollers allow the Buffalo to be driven over and detonate anti-personnel mines without damage to the Buffalo. As a result, unusually large numbers of mines can be neutralized in a short period of time.

Mr. Brian Green, from the Office of Project Manager for Close Combat Systems, Countermine Division, stationed at Fort Belvoir, Va., said, "A recent incident, involving a Buffalo vehicle, saw it run over an anti-tank mine. The blast, from the detonation, tore off a wheel and destroyed an axle on the vehicle. There were no casualties to the crew inside the Buffalo. It drove itself out of the minefield, was repaired overnight and was back in operation the following day. This is precisely the result experienced with the Buffalo vehicle when we first tested it and now it is delivering those results under fire in both Afghanistan and Iraq. We just need more of them."

About Force Protection, Inc.

Force Protection, Inc. manufactures and distributes vehicles that protect and save lives and property. Its subsidiary, Technical Solutions Group, Inc., (TSG) manufactures and markets military vehicles that are protected against landmines, hostile fire, and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs, commonly referred to as roadside bombs). Its mine and ballistic protection technology is among the most advanced in the world. The vehicles are manufactured outside Charleston, S.C.. For more information visit http://www.forceprotection.net.

This release contains forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements concerning our business, future plans and objectives and the performance of our products. These forward-looking statements involve certain risks and uncertainties ultimately may not prove to be accurate. Actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Technical complications may arise that could prevent the prompt implementation of the strategic plan outlined above. The company cautions that these forward looking statements are further qualified by other factors including, but not limited to, those set forth in the company's Form 10-KSB filing and other filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (available at http://www.sec.gov). The company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any statements in this release, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Contact:
Force Protection, Inc.
949-374-2894 (Investor Relations)
investorrelations@forceprotectioninc.com
or
Stearns Johnson Communications
Tim Johnson, 415-397-7600 (Media)
tjohnson@stearnsjohnson.com

Press Release Source: Force Protection, Inc.

Force Protection, Inc. Takes Steps To Be Removed From Berlin Stock Exchange After Unsanctioned Listing
Wednesday June 2, 4:14 pm ET

LADSON, S.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 2, 2004--Force Protection, Inc. (OTCBB:FRCP - News) announced today that it has taken steps to have its shares removed from the Berlin Stock Exchange, where it was listed without the company's authorization. "This unsanctioned listing came to our attention a few weeks ago and we have, through our attorney, notified the Berlin Exchange that our stock is to be removed post haste," said CFO Tom Thebes. "While we appreciate any legitimate interest various parties may have in seeing our stock trade in their native country, we will not tolerate unauthorized listing of our stock on any of the world's stock exchanges."
About Force Protection, Inc.

Force Protection, Inc. manufactures and distributes vehicles that protect and save lives and property. Its subsidiary, Technical Solutions Group, Inc., (TSG) manufactures and markets military vehicles that are protected against landmines, hostile fire, and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs, commonly referred to as roadside bombs). Its mine and ballistic protection technology is among the most advanced in the world. The vehicles are manufactured outside Charleston, S.C.. For more information visit http://www.forceprotection.net.

This release contains forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements concerning our business, future plans and objectives and the performance of our products. These forward-looking statements involve certain risks and uncertainties ultimately may not prove to be accurate. Actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Technical complications may arise that could prevent the prompt implementation of the strategic plan outlined above. The company cautions that these forward looking statements are further qualified by other factors including, but not limited to, those set forth in the company's Form 10-KSB filing and other filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (available at http://www.sec.gov). The company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any statements in this release, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Contact:
Stearns Johnson Communications
Tim Johnson, 415-397-7600 (Media Contact)
tjohnson@stearnsjohnson.com
or
Force Protection, Inc.
Investor Relations, 949-374-2894 (Investor Contact)
investorrelations@forceprotectioninc.com

CHARLESTON, S.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--June 30, 2004--Force Protection, Inc. (OTCBB:FRCP - News) announced today that it is taking several steps to facilitate communication to investors. "We have designed a Transparency Project to provide timely information about our company to our shareholders and the marketplace," stated CEO Michael Watts. The Transparency Project includes a number of initiatives.

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First, we plan to add Investor FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) pages to our web site. "This will provide a forum for investors to find information about our Company in one centralized location," continued Mr. Watts.

Second, we will host a series of Public Open Houses at our facility in Ladson, South Carolina. The purpose of the Open Houses will be for investors to tour our facilities and see our products. The first Open House will be held on Friday, July 9, 2004 from 9 a.m. to noon. "We had hoped to arrange this Open House to coincide with Senator Lindsey Graham's visit on July 2, but we've had to settle for the following week," said Mr. Watts. The next Open House will be on September 10, 2004. "We will try to arrange an Open House each quarter. Because we have to work around those times when there is classified work going on, we will announce each date approximately a month in advance."

Third, we intend to publish a "Letter to Shareholders" at least once per quarter. The Letter to Shareholders will be distributed by press release and will also be available on the Investor Relations portion of our web site. Mr. Watts stated, "The purpose of the Letter to Shareholders is to discuss various things that affect our company, its products and business.

We have designed our Transparency Project partly in response to shareholder questions we receive. Although the federal securities laws, including Regulation Fair Disclosure, generally prohibit us from disclosing material information to individual shareholders, we will try to answer as many shareholder questions as possible in a public forum, where all investors can benefit and receive the information simultaneously. Mr. Watts stated, "Although we generally can not answer individual questions directly, we encourage investors to send their questions and comments to investorrelations@forceprotection.net. We read and consider all investor communications and will attempt to answer as many questions as possible in our public communications."

Mr. Watts added, "I believe the Transparency Project will encourage investors to focus on our long-term business rather than daily chatter, rumors, and short term results." We are excited by our recent sales to the U.S. Marines and U.S. Army, as well as our ongoing discussions with several customers for potential additional sales," said Mr. Watts. "The performance of our vehicles demonstrates the importance of building mine and ballistic-protected vehicles from the ground up, as well as the superior technology our company has developed. I believe investors should focus on the potential to grow our company and produce financial results -- not the daily noise."

Separately, the Company announced that it has taken steps to limit sales of the Company's stock made by insiders. The Board of Directors and Executive Officers of the Company have agreed, with very limited exceptions, not to sell any shares of Force Protection stock in the public markets until December 27, 2004. Additionally, all employees of the Company are required to request permission from the Chief Executive Officer or the General Counsel for any transactions in the Company's stock. The purpose of this approval system is to ensure that Directors, Officer and Employees comply with securities laws when buying or selling the Company's stock. However, we cannot withhold approval merely because such a transaction would be inconvenient.

About Force Protection, Inc.

Force Protection, Inc. manufactures and distributes vehicles that protect and save lives and property. Its subsidiary, Technical Solutions Group, Inc., (TSG) manufactures and markets military vehicles that are protected against landmines, hostile fire, and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs, commonly referred to as roadside bombs). Its mine and ballistic protection technology is among the most advanced in the world. The vehicles are manufactured outside Charleston, S.C. For more information, visit http://www.forceprotection.net.

CHARLESTON, S.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--July 7, 2004--Force Protection, Inc. (OTCBB:FRCP - News) announced today Senator Lindsey Graham visited the Company's production facility in Ladson, South Carolina on July 1, 2004. Senator Graham, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, has been supportive of the effort to get more blast protected vehicles into Iraq and Afghanistan.
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"We were delighted that the Senator was able to visit and I know his presence and his comments have provided inspiration for all of us here at Force Protection," said CEO Michael Watts.

The Senator was given a brief tour of the facility as well as an update on the Company's products and production capacity. The Senator saw welding proceeding on the blast proof capsules for the vehicles that will be delivered later this year under two recently received contracts from the Army and the Marines. He then drove a Cougar vehicle - which is protected against landmines, IED's, and ballistics - around the campus. Upon returning to the parking lot beside the Company's 86,000 square foot factory, he was joined by the Company's first-shift workforce. Senator Graham addressed the group and several media representatives. Among other points, Senator Graham stated that he feels that the Company's vehicles are going to help determine the outcome in Iraq and he reaffirmed his desire to see many more of the vehicles purchased and deployed. The full text of his comments follows.

"When a nation is at war I think it is important for people in my business to show what it takes to win. The vehicle behind me is something we should all be proud of in South Carolina. This vehicle is going to help win this war. This vehicle is going to make sure our troops and the people protecting us have a better chance of surviving the enemy. I am proud of the fact that these vehicles - and the Buffalo and other armored vehicles that will make a difference in the world of terrorism - are coming from South Carolina. It is the result of a lot of hard work from a lot of great people that live in our backyard. This is a great company, the pay is good and the skill level is high. I can assure you that the people that make this vehicle love their country and have put a lot of pride behind it. On behalf of those who are serving in the Armed Forces, I wanted to come here to say 'thank you'.

"The Buffalo has been a tremendous asset in the Iraqi operation and in Afghanistan. It allows us to clear mines and deal with explosive devices in a new and creative way. The technology that is going into these vehicles is state-of-the-art and world class - and we need more. With this Authorization Bill we have ordered more, so you will have a good Christmas. We are going to make sure this company grows because this war is going to take all we have as a nation. If it's up to me, you'll still be here twenty years from now. Unfortunately, it is going to go on for a long period of time.

"One thing that I wanted to comment on is that the last 72 hours have been historic. People ask me, Senator Graham, is it worth it for us to be in Iraq? Absolutely. The reason it is worth it, is because we have taken out a dictatorship, Saddam Hussein's dictatorship. He has gone from a palace to a jail house. He was arraigned today by his fellow citizens. The Iraqi people will pass judgment on this dictator and he will be held accountable for his crimes. That is a big change in the Mid East that will change the culture of the Mid East. Saddam Hussein was part of the problem, ladies and gentlemen. Not only was he a dictator and brutal to his own people, he terrorized his neighbors. He did have a connection to terrorists. There is no evidence that he planned 9/11 but there is plenty of evidence that he was sympathetic to Al Qaeda and that he helped terrorists all over the world. Iraq was the place you could go as a terrorist and feel welcome.

"Let me tell you, today - because of the brave men and women in uniform and the Coalition forces - Iraq is a place you can go to today and see a dictator on trial. It is worth it, the blood and treasure that has been spent to liberate the Iraqi people makes us more secure.

"We really have only one choice, we will engage the enemy over there or we will open ourselves up to them coming here. So what happens in Iraq and the outcome determines our future in a direct way. We saw on September 11 - that if you ignore the terrorist problems and you let it grow and you let these people organize and you let them become stronger - they can get you. I can tell you, since September 11th 50 million people in Afghanistan and Iraq are having the chance to taste the freedom that most of us take for granted. The Taliban has been dismantled in Afghanistan and Osama Bin Laden is hiding in a hole. An American soldier is going to find him hiding in that hole one day just like we found Saddam Hussein hiding in his hole. So the people that hate us and would kill us if they could, are all on the run.

"The vehicles that we are making here will really be outcome determiners. I am calling on the Pentagon to do more, not only do we need more equipment, we need more resources, and we need more people. 5,600 people are going to be called out of retirement from the military to go back on active duty. To them I apologize for the inconvenience. To them I would say, your country needs you now more than ever. We are calling up military police because we do not have enough to do the job in Iraq. We are calling up civilian engineers to make sure we can repair the sewage, the water system, to put the power plants back up, because the sooner the people have a better life, the more friendly they will be. The specialties that will be called up will be desperately needed. We are going to increase the military by 30,000. I am calling on every able bodied American that is thinking of joining up, to join up. Your country needs you more now than ever. This is a world effort, this a world war, just like World War II, and we are winning - but the price to be paid for winning, as in World War II, will be great.

"Sovereignty has been turned over to the Iraqi people, but they do not have the capacity to remain free without our help. Our goal for the next year and a half is to train an Iraqi army that can fight and win, to train an Iraqi police force that will protect the Iraqi people. The Iraqi police force under Saddam Hussein had one goal, to protect the dictator. The police force that we are training has a different goal, to protect the people and their property.

"It will take a long time to have a well trained army and police force and the international community needs to help us more. I am glad that NATO is now involved in this fight. If we will stay the course, if we will continue to make the sacrifices, we can win this war. The terrorists know very well what to do, that is why they are coming at us very hard in Iraq. They know that if this dictatorship becomes a democracy, it will be their biggest nightmare. If people can vote on their agenda they will go nowhere. The only way they can get people to sign up is by fear. So, to the people that are making these vehicles, your work product is saving lives. Your work product is helping win this war and it is a great testament to you and what you do.

"These vehicles have made a huge difference in Iraq and Afghanistan to help clear mine fields without injury. The Cougar and the Buffalo will provide better protection whereas; other vehicles have been more vulnerable. It will allow us to act even more so globally, it will allow us to be more proactive. We have 13 more Buffalos in the pipeline, and if I have anything to say as a Senator, we are going to build a lot of these, we need a lot of them. We will get Cougars and eventually Lions over there. We will pay whatever it costs; we are not going to do this war cheaply. We will spend money now to save lives later.

"I believe an all volunteer force can meet the needs of this war. Let me say this, if there is any doubt we will call on Americans like we have in the past. I don't believe we need a draft, but it is clear that we do not have enough people in Iraq and this call up of the retired military is a result of not having enough people. We will do what it takes, if people sign up in appropriate numbers we will be okay. We are moving 3,800 people out of Korea to Iraq. What happens if something bad happens in Korea? I am pressing very hard to get more people in uniform because this war is going to be long lasting. I am pressing very hard to get better benefits for those who serve. 40% of our people in Iraq and Afghanistan by the end this year will be in the Guard and the Reserves. These are people who have civilian jobs that will leave behind to serve in harms way. I will make sure that if you are a Guard or Reserve member you will have full time military health care. Right now they don't have that. I am pushing to make sure you can retire when you are 55 instead of waiting until you are 60. We need to upgrade the benefit packages of the Guard and Reserve communities. We are asking for so much, it is now time to give something back.

A brief question and answer period followed the Senator's comments.

When asked about the possibility of housing military criminals in the Charleston area, the Senator replied, "I think that the people of Charleston are very patriotic. Who wants to have a bad apple in their back yard? No one. We are all in this together and every community has to do what it is capable of doing. Police officers and firemen ran into burning buildings in New York, the least we can do in South Carolina is to house these people in a secure environment until the meet their fate. This brig is the best in the Navy and it is well run. This is the place to send them if they have to leave Cuba. I am all for putting them in jail in South Carolina to make sure they meet their just fate."

When asked whether or not the move to bring the military criminals to the Charleston area was really about creating additional work for attorneys in this area, the Senator replied, "Not really. But this war is really about the rule of law. It is between us and the barbarians that we are fighting. We are trying to put into place a process that will bring out the best in humanity. When we capture somebody, they will have their day in court, they will be given a lawyer, they will be able to tell their side of the story. Our enemy will kill you without asking any questions. My goal is not to be like our enemy, but to take their way of life and replace it. So the people that will come to Charleston, if it be necessary, will have lawyers. They will have their day in court and that is the way it should be. If they are found guilty they will be punished. That is the difference between us and Saddam Hussein. That is the difference that we are fighting for."

When asked about Saddam Hussein's defiance in the court room, the Senator replied: "Saddam Hussein better enjoy every moment he has left because his day of reckoning is about to come. This is not at the hands of a barbarian, but by a process that will expose his crimes. He has a 20-person legal team. He will be given a chance to tell his side. If he wants to make a political statement he can, but I can not tell you how important it is for the Iraqi people to see this dictator go from a palace to a prison. It will give them hope that the American way is the best way. Saddam Hussein's crimes will be shown to the world. Every American should be proud of the fact that it was our country along with a few friends who took this dictator out of a palace and put him in prison.

When you hear what he did to his people and hear what a threat that he was to his people then you will say that this whole operation was worth it. It shows two things: that under a rule of law there is a way to achieve justice in a way that is fair, and it tells every other dictator that if you don't watch it - your day is coming. I appreciate what my President has done. Afghanistan and Iraq have changed, he stood up to people that others have let go way to long. Because of his resolve and the bravery of our troops, this dictator who was a friend to terrorism is going to answer for crimes that you and I can not imagine. His judges will not be Americans, they will be his own people. This is a great day for the Mid East. God bless you and thank you all for coming."

A DVD of the ABC affiliate's coverage of the press conference can be obtained by contacting Force Protection Investor Relations via email at investorrelations@forceprotection.net.

About Force Protection, Inc.

Force Protection, Inc. manufactures and distributes vehicles that protect and save lives and property. Its subsidiary, Technical Solutions Group, Inc., (TSG) manufactures and markets military vehicles that are protected against landmines, hostile fire, and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs, commonly referred to as roadside bombs). Its mine and ballistic protection technology is among the most advanced in the world. The vehicles are manufactured outside Charleston, S.C. For more information, visit http://www.forceprotection.net.

This text was taken from a transcription of a recording of Senator Graham's remarks and, therefore, may contain minor errors. Any such errors are the sole responsibility of Force Protection, Inc.

This release contains forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements concerning our business, future plans and objectives and the performance of our products. These forward-looking statements involve certain risks and uncertainties ultimately may not prove to be accurate. Actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Technical complications may arise that could prevent the prompt implementation of the strategic plan outlined above. The company cautions that these forward looking statements are further qualified by other factors including, but not limited to, those set forth in the company's Form 10-KSB filing and other filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (available at http://www.sec.gov). The company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any statements in this release, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Contact:
Stearns Johnson Communications
Tim Johnson, 415-397-7600 (Media)
tjohnson@stearnsjohnson.com
or
Force Protection, Inc.
Investor Relations, 843-740-7015 x233
investorrelations@forceprotectioninc.com

The Senator was given a brief tour of the facility as well as an update on the Company's products and production capacity. The Senator saw welding proceeding on the blast proof capsules for the vehicles that will be delivered later this year under two recently received contracts from the Army and the Marines. He then drove a Cougar vehicle - which is protected against landmines, IED's, and ballistics - around the campus. Upon returning to the parking lot beside the Company's 86,000 square foot factory, he was joined by the Company's first-shift workforce. Senator Graham addressed the group and several media representatives. Among other points, Senator Graham stated that he feels that the Company's vehicles are going to help determine the outcome in Iraq and he reaffirmed his desire to see many more of the vehicles purchased and deployed. The full text of his comments follows.

"When a nation is at war I think it is important for people in my business to show what it takes to win. The vehicle behind me is something we should all be proud of in South Carolina. This vehicle is going to help win this war. This vehicle is going to make sure our troops and the people protecting us have a better chance of surviving the enemy. I am proud of the fact that these vehicles - and the Buffalo and other armored vehicles that will make a difference in the world of terrorism - are coming from South Carolina. It is the result of a lot of hard work from a lot of great people that live in our backyard. This is a great company, the pay is good and the skill level is high. I can assure you that the people that make this vehicle love their country and have put a lot of pride behind it. On behalf of those who are serving in the Armed Forces, I wanted to come here to say 'thank you'.

"The Buffalo has been a tremendous asset in the Iraqi operation and in Afghanistan. It allows us to clear mines and deal with explosive devices in a new and creative way. The technology that is going into these vehicles is state-of-the-art and world class - and we need more. With this Authorization Bill we have ordered more, so you will have a good Christmas. We are going to make sure this company grows because this war is going to take all we have as a nation. If it's up to me, you'll still be here twenty years from now. Unfortunately, it is going to go on for a long period of time.

"One thing that I wanted to comment on is that the last 72 hours have been historic. People ask me, Senator Graham, is it worth it for us to be in Iraq? Absolutely. The reason it is worth it, is because we have taken out a dictatorship, Saddam Hussein's dictatorship. He has gone from a palace to a jail house. He was arraigned today by his fellow citizens. The Iraqi people will pass judgment on this dictator and he will be held accountable for his crimes. That is a big change in the Mid East that will change the culture of the Mid East. Saddam Hussein was part of the problem, ladies and gentlemen. Not only was he a dictator and brutal to his own people, he terrorized his neighbors. He did have a connection to terrorists. There is no evidence that he planned 9/11 but there is plenty of evidence that he was sympathetic to Al Qaeda and that he helped terrorists all over the world. Iraq was the place you could go as a terrorist and feel welcome.

"Let me tell you, today - because of the brave men and women in uniform and the Coalition forces - Iraq is a place you can go to today and see a dictator on trial. It is worth it, the blood and treasure that has been spent to liberate the Iraqi people makes us more secure.

"We really have only one choice, we will engage the enemy over there or we will open ourselves up to them coming here. So what happens in Iraq and the outcome determines our future in a direct way. We saw on September 11 - that if you ignore the terrorist problems and you let it grow and you let these people organize and you let them become stronger - they can get you. I can tell you, since September 11th 50 million people in Afghanistan and Iraq are having the chance to taste the freedom that most of us take for granted. The Taliban has been dismantled in Afghanistan and Osama Bin Laden is hiding in a hole. An American soldier is going to find him hiding in that hole one day just like we found Saddam Hussein hiding in his hole. So the people that hate us and would kill us if they could, are all on the run.

"The vehicles that we are making here will really be outcome determiners. I am calling on the Pentagon to do more, not only do we need more equipment, we need more resources, and we need more people. 5,600 people are going to be called out of retirement from the military to go back on active duty. To them I apologize for the inconvenience. To them I would say, your country needs you now more than ever. We are calling up military police because we do not have enough to do the job in Iraq. We are calling up civilian engineers to make sure we can repair the sewage, the water system, to put the power plants back up, because the sooner the people have a better life, the more friendly they will be. The specialties that will be called up will be desperately needed. We are going to increase the military by 30,000. I am calling on every able bodied American that is thinking of joining up, to join up. Your country needs you more now than ever. This is a world effort, this a world war, just like World War II, and we are winning - but the price to be paid for winning, as in World War II, will be great.

"Sovereignty has been turned over to the Iraqi people, but they do not have the capacity to remain free without our help. Our goal for the next year and a half is to train an Iraqi army that can fight and win, to train an Iraqi police force that will protect the Iraqi people. The Iraqi police force under Saddam Hussein had one goal, to protect the dictator. The police force that we are training has a different goal, to protect the people and their property.

"It will take a long time to have a well trained army and police force and the international community needs to help us more. I am glad that NATO is now involved in this fight. If we will stay the course, if we will continue to make the sacrifices, we can win this war. The terrorists know very well what to do, that is why they are coming at us very hard in Iraq. They know that if this dictatorship becomes a democracy, it will be their biggest nightmare. If people can vote on their agenda they will go nowhere. The only way they can get people to sign up is by fear. So, to the people that are making these vehicles, your work product is saving lives. Your work product is helping win this war and it is a great testament to you and what you do.

"These vehicles have made a huge difference in Iraq and Afghanistan to help clear mine fields without injury. The Cougar and the Buffalo will provide better protection whereas; other vehicles have been more vulnerable. It will allow us to act even more so globally, it will allow us to be more proactive. We have 13 more Buffalos in the pipeline, and if I have anything to say as a Senator, we are going to build a lot of these, we need a lot of them. We will get Cougars and eventually Lions over there. We will pay whatever it costs; we are not going to do this war cheaply. We will spend money now to save lives later.

"I believe an all volunteer force can meet the needs of this war. Let me say this, if there is any doubt we will call on Americans like we have in the past. I don't believe we need a draft, but it is clear that we do not have enough people in Iraq and this call up of the retired military is a result of not having enough people. We will do what it takes, if people sign up in appropriate numbers we will be okay. We are moving 3,800 people out of Korea to Iraq. What happens if something bad happens in Korea? I am pressing very hard to get more people in uniform because this war is going to be long lasting. I am pressing very hard to get better benefits for those who serve. 40% of our people in Iraq and Afghanistan by the end this year will be in the Guard and the Reserves. These are people who have civilian jobs that will leave behind to serve in harms way. I will make sure that if you are a Guard or Reserve member you will have full time military health care. Right now they don't have that. I am pushing to make sure you can retire when you are 55 instead of waiting until you are 60. We need to upgrade the benefit packages of the Guard and Reserve communities. We are asking for so much, it is now time to give something back.

A brief question and answer period followed the Senator's comments.

When asked about the possibility of housing military criminals in the Charleston area, the Senator replied, "I think that the people of Charleston are very patriotic. Who wants to have a bad apple in their back yard? No one. We are all in this together and every community has to do what it is capable of doing. Police officers and firemen ran into burning buildings in New York, the least we can do in South Carolina is to house these people in a secure environment until the meet their fate. This brig is the best in the Navy and it is well run. This is the place to send them if they have to leave Cuba. I am all for putting them in jail in South Carolina to make sure they meet their just fate."

When asked whether or not the move to bring the military criminals to the Charleston area was really about creating additional work for attorneys in this area, the Senator replied, "Not really. But this war is really about the rule of law. It is between us and the barbarians that we are fighting. We are trying to put into place a process that will bring out the best in humanity. When we capture somebody, they will have their day in court, they will be given a lawyer, they will be able to tell their side of the story. Our enemy will kill you without asking any questions. My goal is not to be like our enemy, but to take their way of life and replace it. So the people that will come to Charleston, if it be necessary, will have lawyers. They will have their day in court and that is the way it should be. If they are found guilty they will be punished. That is the difference between us and Saddam Hussein. That is the difference that we are fighting for."

When asked about Saddam Hussein's defiance in the court room, the Senator replied: "Saddam Hussein better enjoy every moment he has left because his day of reckoning is about to come. This is not at the hands of a barbarian, but by a process that will expose his crimes. He has a 20-person legal team. He will be given a chance to tell his side. If he wants to make a political statement he can, but I can not tell you how important it is for the Iraqi people to see this dictator go from a palace to a prison. It will give them hope that the American way is the best way. Saddam Hussein's crimes will be shown to the world. Every American should be proud of the fact that it was our country along with a few friends who took this dictator out of a palace and put him in prison.

When you hear what he did to his people and hear what a threat that he was to his people then you will say that this whole operation was worth it. It shows two things: that under a rule of law there is a way to achieve justice in a way that is fair, and it tells every other dictator that if you don't watch it - your day is coming. I appreciate what my President has done. Afghanistan and Iraq have changed, he stood up to people that others have let go way to long. Because of his resolve and the bravery of our troops, this dictator who was a friend to terrorism is going to answer for crimes that you and I can not imagine. His judges will not be Americans, they will be his own people. This is a great day for the Mid East. God bless you and thank you all for coming."

A DVD of the ABC affiliate's coverage of the press conference can be obtained by contacting Force Protection Investor Relations via email at investorrelations@forceprotection.net.

About Force Protection, Inc.

Force Protection, Inc. manufactures and distributes vehicles that protect and save lives and property. Its subsidiary, Technical Solutions Group, Inc., (TSG) manufactures and markets military vehicles that are protected against landmines, hostile fire, and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs, commonly referred to as roadside bombs). Its mine and ballistic protection technology is among the most advanced in the world. The vehicles are manufactured outside Charleston, S.C. For more information, visit http://www.forceprotection.net.

This text was taken from a transcription of a recording of Senator Graham's remarks and, therefore, may contain minor errors. Any such errors are the sole responsibility of Force Protection, Inc.

This release contains forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements concerning our business, future plans and objectives and the performance of our products. These forward-looking statements involve certain risks and uncertainties ultimately may not prove to be accurate. Actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Technical complications may arise that could prevent the prompt implementation of the strategic plan outlined above. The company cautions that these forward looking statements are further qualified by other factors including, but not limited to, those set forth in the company's Form 10-KSB filing and other filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (available at http://www.sec.gov). The company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any statements in this release, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

SOURCE: Force Protection, Inc.

9/7/2004 1:26:00 PM

LADSON, S.C., Sep 7, 2004 (BUSINESS WIRE) -- Force Protection, Inc. ( FRCP ), the leading manufacturer of mine-protected vehicles for military and security users, announced today it has signed a multi-year agreement with a humanitarian landmine-clearing organization to provide professional training and military advisory services internationally.

The agreement with Landmine Clearance International LLC (LCI), a nonprofit group that conducts landmine clearing operations and related support activities, will facilitate operations among Force Protection, LCI and the United States Marine Corps, which will soon take delivery of Force Protection's Cougar Hardened Engineer Vehicles. The Cougar will be delivered as an EOD team transport vehicle and additionally as a larger, 6x6 combat engineer transport.

"We're excited to join together LCI's resources and our American-made mine-protected vehicles," said Force Protection CEO Michael Watts. "We have seen significant interest in our vehicles recently from civilian contractors in Iraq and Afghanistan. This agreement gives us worldwide reach to provide operator and maintenance training, as well as direct maintenance services and warranty work wherever our customers are. Even our military customers may benefit from our new ability to provide direct support for our vehicles."

Michael Stock, Managing Director of Landmine Clearance, earlier stated, "The Cougar HEV line of vehicles represent a critically-needed capability in the Middle East today. Our prior work with Coalition Forces and commercial contractors in this area of operations indicate an immediate market for countermine and clearance equipment and services."

To facilitate its training programs, LCI maintains extensive contacts in industry, civic aid groups, international development organizations and the public sector internationally. This permits LCI to organize leading experts, facilities, transportation, technical and demolitions materiel, training areas, and qualified local employees on a contingency basis.

LCI's business relationships will provide Force Protection with access to local companies, charities, and private experts throughout the Middle East, Africa, and Europe. These experts, when integrated with permanent staff and active duty US forces, constitute a potent economic development, reconstruction, and public safety capability in any operational environment.

About Force Protection, Inc.

Force Protection, Inc. manufactures ballistic and mine protected vehicles through its wholly owned subsidiary, Technical Solutions Group (TSG). These specialty, protected vehicles are protected against landmines, hostile fire, and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs, commonly referred to as roadside bombs). Force Protection's mine and ballistic protection technology is among the most advanced in the world. The vehicles are manufactured outside Charleston, S.C.

For more information, visit http://www.forceprotectioninc.com.

This release contains forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, statements concerning our business, future plans and objectives and the performance of our products. These forward-looking statements involve certain risks and uncertainties ultimately may not prove to be accurate. Actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Technical complications may arise that could prevent the prompt implementation of the strategic plan outlined above. The company cautions that these forward looking statements are further qualified by other factors including, but not limited to, those set forth in the company's Form 10-KSB filing and other filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (available at http://www.sec.gov). The company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any statements in this release, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

SOURCE: Force Protection, Inc.

Policy Impact Strategic Communications
Jeff Child, 202-661-6372 (Media Contact)
jchild@policyimpact.com
or
Force Protection, Inc.
Investor Relations, 843-740-7015, Ext. 233
investorrelations@forceprotectioninc.com

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