The Ukrainian Ministry of Defense has officially approved the procurement of an advanced modular body armor system, aimed at bolstering the protective capabilities of military personnel in response to shifting conditions on the battlefield. The decision reflects the urgent need to address the fact that over 90 percent of combat injuries in recent conflicts have been linked to fragments and shrapnel.
This new body armor design will incorporate three additional components specifically targeting the forearms, shins, and tailbone. Notably, the shin and forearm modules are engineered to extend protection to the knees and elbows, providing comprehensive coverage for soldiers during combat scenarios.
Currently, the existing body armor kit consists of eight essential components, including front and back plates outfitted with both soft and hard armor elements. It also includes protective covers for the groin and neck, along with soft shoulder and hip guards. A cummerbund and a load-bearing belt, which features a ballistic element, complete the existing setup, ensuring that personnel have a robust defense system.
The newly introduced modular components are designed to counter threats from pistol rounds and fragments as small as 1.1 grams, traveling at velocities of up to 600 meters per second. This capability signifies a significant advancement in personal protection gear, tailored to meet the demands of modern warfare.
Beyond enhancing safety, the modular system is intended to offer adaptive flexibility, allowing military personnel to adjust their level of protection based on specific mission requirements. This modular approach ensures that soldiers can customize their gear for a variety of operational contexts.
The body armor will be delivered in a distinctive MM-14 “pixel” camouflage pattern, and it incorporates a Type 2 hard armor element crafted from advanced ceramic composite materials, further reinforcing its protective features. This initiative marks a crucial step in equipping the Ukrainian Armed Forces with the necessary tools to navigate the complexities of contemporary combat effectively.
