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Army to roll out better body armor
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Army to roll out better body armor
In 2019 the Army expects to roll out a new, lighter body armor system. The armor will provide at least as much protection as today's system, but with more comfort, and greater flexibility to adjust based on the mission, Army officials said.To get more news about bulletproof zone customer service, you can visit bulletproofboxs.com official website.
Already, improved ballistics materials have allowed the Army to cut the weight of TEP, when compared to the Army's current heavy-duty option, the Improved Outer Tactical Vest. The IOTV, when loaded with heavy plates, weighs about 31 pounds, while a comparable TEP system checks in at about 23 pounds, or 26 percent lighter.Brown said the Army pushed with industry to reduce weight while meeting future threats. In addition, the ability to add and subtract different elements and plate inserts in the vest, is a real "highlight," Brown said. .In addition to TEP, the Army is developing new body armor plates and a new head protection system.
Soldier feedback has already played a major role in development of TEP, Brown said. Trials by soldiers at three different installation, as well as by Marines and special operations units, provided design advice and feedback. Brown said that ultimately helped produce a system earning a 95 percent positive feedback."One great aspect of the Soldier Protection System is we really listened to the voice of the customer, the soldier," Brown said. "Based on feedback from the soldier we were able to make design changes."
Designed to be worn with a ballistic vest, the shirt consists of protection on the upper back, upper chest and neck, while completely covering the arms with ballistic-protective sleeves. The material has a similar feel to the Army combat shirt, but is more comfortable and offers ballistic fragmentation protection, Brown said. It also eliminates the need for the Deltoid Auxiliary Protector, an add-on to the IOTV which has driven soldier complaints for being bulky and obstructive. The shirt is moisture-wicking and has a degree of breathability, Brown said, adding to comfort."Soldiers really liked the Ballistic Combat Shirt because they felt they had the full range of motion to be able to get into a shooters stance, and also to be able to fit their weapon in the shoulder area," said Brown. "The biggest revolutionary change (in the system) is with the Ballistic Combat Shirt which provides the same level of protection as the DAP and the yoke and collar (of the IOTV)."
The Army developed a Soldier Plate Carrier System during the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan to offer a nimbler alternative to IOTV. The MSV is similar to the SPCS: old plates will work, as will new plates being developed to offer a variety of levels of protection and fits. It features a quick-release system for easy removal. And again, the MSV’s ballistic material offers similar protection at a lighter weight, as do the various optional plate inserts. In addition, the design is now a fully-government-owned program of record, whereas the SPCS was generated by an operational needs statement (a quick fix to address a newly-emerged need). That matters because future technology advancements can be more easily incorporated by the Army as production continues, Brown said.
The new protection for the pelvis and femoral arteries will replace two current protective items: an undergarment and an over-garment. Brown said soldiers like how the simplified protector connects to the system and fits the body’s form, and she said feedback also indicated improved mobility.