Ukraine's Ministry of Defense is conducting laboratory tests on a new lightweight model of body armor. This body armor stands out for its construction lightness, mobility, and convenience for performing maneuverable actions during assault and special operations.
The model has already undergone trials at the Reconnaissance School of the Airborne Assault Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and received positive feedback. Currently, the final stage—laboratory testing—is ongoing.
"We understand the importance of equipment weight in carrying out combat missions, especially for special forces and assault troops. Every centimeter and every gram of the lightweight body armor has been carefully considered. We expect positive results from the final trials, as this armor is greatly needed in our units," Deputy Minister of Defense Dmytro Klymenkov noted.
The new body armor is made of reinforced ceramic composite materials, providing 6th-class protection. It comes in sizes ranging from S to XL in two configurations, weighing between 7.5 kg to 12 kg, compared to 10.5 kg to 17.5 kg in modular models.
The body armor features quick-release functionality and can be equipped with additional elements: neck and shoulder protection, shoulder pads, groin protection, tactical load-bearing belt, copper protection, thigh protection, and elements for buoyancy. Special anatomical inserts are provided for women.
The product also includes separate pockets for soft and hard ballistic protection and removable shock-absorbing inserts. After completing laboratory testing, the body armor will be delivered for use by the Armed Forces of Ukraine.