Defence Minister Karl Erjavec visited ski equipment manufacturer Elan on Friday and discussed its potentials in production of military equipment for Slovenia and the rest of NATO.
Erjavec and the representatives of Skimar, the parent company of the Elan Group, talked about the possibilities of producing a type of skis for the military which would set the standard in NATO countries, supplying Elan's products to allies, and vessel production for the demands of the Slovenian Armed Forces.
The company is known for dedicating a good deal of money to technological development thereby securing its position among innovative companies. This know-how could be put into development of military equipment, said Igor Umek, CEO of Skimar, and Elan board member, Matjaz Sarabon.
This would also enable Elan to take part in NATO's tenders, as the company fulfils the standards of the Slovenian Armed Forces, as well as the standards of NATO, claimed Erjavec during his visit to company in Begunje na Gorenjskem.
Sarabon said that good opportunities also lie in development of advanced materials, considering Elan's previous experience in the military sphere. "Elan is already present on the Scandinavian markets, while counter purchases could increase its sales even further," added Sarabon.
Elan and the Defence Ministry are currently working together in equipping the national martial arts centre, which is to be constructed in Kranj (north) by mid-2008, and a military testing ground in Murska Sobota (NE).
Erjavec also looked at Elan's nautical programme and said he was surprised at its rapid development. He also assured that the management of the Slovenian Armed Forces would shortly visit the company in order to assess the possibility of military boat production in the company.
In the past two years, Elan's contracts with the army totaled EUR 458,300.
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