Shield Restraint Systems (Pvt) Ltd has officially inaugurated its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility at the Export Processing Zone in Wathupitiwala, Nittambuwa. This development marks a significant milestone in Sri Lanka’s industrial growth and foreign investment landscape.
The inauguration event was graced by senior executives from the United States, including Kevin McHenry, Executive Vice President of TransDigm Inc., and Dennis Pursel, President of Shield Restraint Systems, alongside Shield’s executive team. Their attendance underscores the company’s commitment to expanding manufacturing operations and fostering international partnerships.
Prominent Sri Lankan officials, including BOI Chairman Arjuna Herath and Director General Renuka Weerakone, were present. Representatives from the U.S. Department of Commerce and the U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka also attended, highlighting the robust economic ties between the two nations.
Shield Restraint Systems, a subsidiary of TransDigm Group Inc., specializes in ground-based restraint systems for non-aviation markets. TransDigm Group, a USD 8.6 billion leader in aviation and defense, has had a strong presence in Sri Lanka for over two decades through its subsidiary AmSafe Bridport (Pvt) Ltd, operating in the Wathupitiwala Export Processing Zone.
This new facility represents TransDigm Group’s latest strategic investment in Sri Lanka, manufacturing a wide range of safety products for child safety seats, commercial vehicles, construction and agricultural equipment, and amusement park rides. With existing facilities in Elkhart, Indiana, and Kunshan, China, the new Sri Lankan site signifies Shield’s strategic expansion into South Asia.
The USD 8.5 million project features a cutting-edge 100,000 sq ft manufacturing facility set to be a cornerstone for the company’s global operations. While currently operating at 10% capacity, full-scale operations are expected to create 500 jobs and generate USD 50 million in annual revenue. This facility will bring substantial economic benefits to Sri Lanka, including significant tax contributions that will bolster the local economy. The project not only signifies immediate job creation but also demonstrates a long-term commitment to Sri Lanka’s economic growth.
The current geopolitical climate has opened unique opportunities. The success and experience gained from AmSafe Bridport (Pvt) Ltd have provided Shield with valuable insights into Sri Lanka’s manufacturing capabilities and business environment. The country’s logistics infrastructure, including excellent shipping routes and accessible supply chain networks, offers a distinct advantage for serving global markets. Demonstrated manufacturing resilience, coupled with a skilled and dedicated labor force, makes Sri Lanka an ideal choice for Shield’s expansion.
Chandani Ekanayake, the General Manager of AmSafe Sri Lanka, who played a pivotal role in securing this investment, stated, “This project represents years of establishing Sri Lanka as a profitable investment hub with our business owners. What we have realized through the journey in establishing Shield in Sri Lanka is that we have to anticipate significant improvements in the efficiency and transparency of administrative processes. The long-awaited policy reforms should focus on establishing a true one-stop service that encourages investors to operate with confidence. We look forward to working with authorities who adopt broader thinking patterns, who view the bigger picture and embrace a pragmatic solution-based approach. Only through such collaboration can Sri Lanka realize its full potential as a genuinely competitive and attractive destination for global investment.”
She further added, “Establishing this facility is just the beginning of our investment journey in Sri Lanka. We’re currently looking at future opportunities which could exceed USD 17 million in investment value. We remain deeply committed to contributing to the nation’s economic progress through sustainable, long-term partnerships that create meaningful opportunities for local communities and strengthen Sri Lanka’s position as a hub for global investment.”
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