The Evolution of Protection: How Ukrainian Body Armor Adapts to the Reality of Drone Warfare
Over the last decade, the Ukrainian individual protective equipment (IPE) industry has evolved from imitating Soviet models to creating high-tech modular systems that meet strict global standards. According to representatives of Rarog Tactical Gear, Ukraine today boasts some of the most rigorous body armor acceptance standards in the world.
In an interview with RBC-Ukraine, the company's leaders — Sales Director Dmytro Yezhkov and RnD Head with the callsign "Svityaz" — discussed the transformation of equipment requirements, the shift from bullet protection to shrapnel protection, and the prospects for implementing exoskeletons.
From Plate Carriers to Modular Systems
According to experts, the concept of a modern body armor in the Ukrainian army only took shape after the start of the full-scale invasion in 2022.
"In 2014, there was no generalized concept of body armor among military personnel. People called both plate carriers and other items, which were essentially not part of body armor, 'body armor.' The modular body armor, as we understand it today, was born only after 2022," notes Dmytro Yezhkov.
Rarog's products are developed based on feedback from the front lines. Engineers analyze the nature of injuries and threats to adapt protection. While the priority from 2014 to 2022 was protection against small arms fire during assaults (Class 6 plates), today the focus has shifted to protection against shrapnel from attack drones.
The Weight Problem and the Future of Exoskeletons
Modern soldiers carry a significant mass — up to 15 kg in ballistic protection alone. This creates a critical load on the spine and reduces mobility.
According to developers, the global trend is moving towards the implementation of exoskeletons, which will allow for weight distribution and preserve the soldier's health. For now, manufacturers are focusing on ergonomics and reducing the weight of the products themselves.
One of Rarog's innovations is the lightest body armor in Ukraine, weighing only 6.5 kg. It is equipped with lightweight Class 6 plates capable of withstanding a machine gun shot from a distance of 10 meters. The design allows it to be worn under a jacket or shirt, which is important for second and third-line units.
Innovations in Saving the Wounded
An important aspect of development is not only protection but also evacuation. The company has implemented a special evacuation strap that attaches to the harness or belt, rather than to the body armor itself. This allows for dragging a wounded person without creating additional load on their body or compromising the integrity of the protection.
Contradictory Data
During the interview, a discrepancy arose regarding the status of the procurement of female body armor.
- Media Version: Journalists noted that the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine "recently purchased a batch of female body armor for the first time".
- Manufacturer Version: Representatives of Rarog Tactical Gear stated that they "long ago passed" the division into male and female models. According to them, their products are universal: with the help of replaceable anatomical pads (internal dampers), any body armor can be adapted to female anatomy by adding necessary cushions for ergonomic fit.
Thus, while the procurement may be the "first" for the state within the framework of a government contract, for the market and manufacturers, this is already an established practice of customization.
Materials: Import vs. Localization
The issue of import substitution in the field of armor remains complex. At the beginning of the full-scale invasion, Ukrainian companies were not ready to provide quality materials.
Today, the situation has changed partially:
- Fabrics: Predominantly Ukrainian or American materials that have passed certification are used.
- Ballistic Packs: There is currently no production of aramid or high-molecular-weight polyethylene (the basis of soft packs) in Ukraine.
- Ceramics: Ceramic armor plates are produced domestically.
Rarog adheres to a "do not risk" strategy, using proven components to ensure maximum protection for military personnel.
