HAMPSHIRE defence group Chemring has snapped up a Dorset bomb disposal equipment maker for £9m.

Chemring, which is based in Whiteley, bought the entire issued share capital of Poole's BDL Systems that makes tools used on the front line in the fight against terrorism.

Bosses said the move was designed to strengthen their grip on a market worth almost £2 billion a year and growing because of the rise of terrorism.

At the same time the firm announced two US subsidiaries had won orders for £42m worth of missile counter measures from the American government.

BDL manufactures a variety of bomb disposal equipment and supplies third party bomb-disposal equipment to help security forces counter the increasing threat of improvised explosive devices, such as roadside bombs, used by terrorists.

It also makes electronic counter-measures equipment and under-vehicle surveillance systems to guard against car bombs.

BDL reported pre-tax profits of £970,000 for the year to March 31 on a turnover of £4.7m.

Chemring chief executive David Price said: "The acquisition of BDL will substantially enhance our capabilities in the explosive ordnance disposal market and complements our existing demolition products.

"The global explosive ordnance disposal market is worth almost £2 billion per year and offers a considerable opportunity for growth in the future.

"The growing threat from improvised explosive devices can only enhance our prospects."

Chemring, which specialises in making chaff to confuse missiles, employs 800 people, largely in Hampshire centres, but also at bases in Salisbury and Derby.

The takeover of BDL is another step in the 100-year-old firm's relentless expansion.

Founded in 1905, when it made clockwork timepieces to control gas streetlights, it has grown into a defence specialist with a turnover of £132m.

In recent months, Chemring has completed two other takeovers, acquiring Wiltshire firm Leafield Engineering, which provides safety and explosive systems for the aerospace and defence industries, and Troon Investments, a manufacturer and supplier of pyrotechnic and propellant devices.