Army to roll out better body armor, combat shirt in 2019
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.
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."
The Army's
new Ballistic Combat Shir