Advanced Armor Systems for Defeat of Small Arms Projectiles

Advanced lightweight ceramic/composite armor systems have been investigated for the defeat of ball and armor piercing projectiles. Several material systems have been identified that will provide weight reductions of approximately 33% - 45%. The materials investigated for this effort include Boron Carbide (B₄C) and Silicon Carbide (SiC) ceramics combined with high strength fiber reinforced plastic backing materials such as Kevlar 29, KM2, Spectra 900, 1000 and SpectraShield. An extensive database is also being complied for other less expensive alternative armor materials against an array of small arms threats. The materials and systems developed are applicable for combat vehicles, aircraft, executive vehicles and personnel protection.