Exhibit 23.2

Consent of Ernst & Young LLP, Independent Auditors

We consent to the reference to our firm under the caption “Experts” in the Registration Statement (Form S-3) and related Prospectus of United Defense Industries, Inc. and to the incorporation by reference therein of our report dated January 21, 2003, with respect to the consolidated financial statements and schedule of United Defense Industries, Inc. included in its Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year ended December 31, 2002, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

McLean, VA
May 22, 2003