Army

British Soldiers Test New Lighter Body Armour

The British Army is becoming streamlined, as units have begun to receive the new Virtus body armour system. It is lighter, slimmer and more...

Ali Gibson
The British Army is becoming streamlined, as units have begun to receive the new Virtus body armour system.
 

Pictured is a front view of a soldier wearing full Virtus body armour
Pictured is a front view of a soldier wearing full Virtus body armour
It is lighter, slimmer and more manoeuvrable than older models and 3rd Battalion The Rifles (3 RIFLES) are some of the first soldiers to receive it.
 
Ali Gibson joined them as they tried it out on exercise in Wales.
 
 
Virtus uses the same camouflage as the old Osprey body armour, and the same plates.
 
However, this is a new and improved soldier. This kit weighs 5kg less, with more optional head and face protection.
 
Troops can balance the weight of their kit better, and only use the parts relevant to their role.
 
The system also employs a new quick-release mechanism - a pin positioned on the chest that when pulled releases the entire body kit.

 

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