AUGUSTA – A Wilton company that manufactures custom built trailers has won a $3 million federal defense contract, Gov. John Baldacci said Friday. Nichols Trailers will produce 216 fuel trailers that will attach to military tanks.

Baldacci, pointing out that the trailers will be built at the former Bass Shoe factory in Wilton, said the contract was good news for the company and western Maine community.

The company will have to hire 10 to 12 new employees and the contract holds potential for additional growth, he said.