Enhanced protection for military personnel: The Ministry of Defence tests additional components for body armor

The Ministry of Defence of Ukraine continues its efforts to improve individual protective equipment for military personnel. In this regard, the MoD’s Main Directorate of Logistics Support Development is reviewing the inclusion of additional components in the 'Modular Body Armor' TS A01XJ.29423-420:2023 (01) technical specification.

The experimental tests will encompass the following additional components:

• A cover with a soft ballistic element for forearm protection
• A cover with a soft ballistic element for shin protection
• If feasible, a cover with a soft ballistic element for coccyx protection.

These additional components are designed to enhance the level of protection for military personnel, providing critical safeguarding of the forearms, shins, and coccyx during combat operations. The forearms and shins are often left unprotected, making them vulnerable to fragments, bullets, and shrapnel. The incorporation of soft ballistic inserts will mitigate the risk of severe injuries that could result in the loss of combat effectiveness. Coccyx protection is equally critical, as injuries to this area can lead to severe spinal trauma and restricted mobility for a service member.

The integration of these additional elements will enhance the effectiveness of combat mission execution, as military personnel will be able to operate with greater confidence, benefiting from an increased level of protection.

“In 2025, the Defence Ministry's acquisition agency, DOT, has contracted individual protective equipment for military personnel valued at nearly UAH 3.7 billion. The continuous improvement of individual protection for our military personnel remains a priority for the Ministry of Defense,” said Glib Kanievskyi, Director of the Procurement Policy Department of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine.

The Ministry of Defence invites interested manufacturers (suppliers) to notify the Main Directorate of Logistics Support Development and the Logistics Forces Command of the Armed Forces of Ukraine regarding their capability to produce and provide the aforementioned elements for modular body armor on a pro bono basis for evaluation and military (experimental) testing. Participation applications for the tests are accepted solely through the MoD Partner portal.

The Ministry of Defence of Ukraine expresses its gratitude to all enterprises contributing to the enhancement of individual protective equipment for military personnel.