TECHNOLOGY AREAS: Materials/Processes, Battlespace, Human Systems

ACQUISITION PROGRAM: Family of Ballistic Protective Systems PM Infantry Combat Equipment ACATIV

The technology within this topic is restricted under the International Traffic in Arms Regulation (ITAR), which controls the export and import of defense-related material and services. Offerors must disclose any proposed use of foreign nationals, their country of origin, and what tasks each would accomplish in the statement of work in accordance with section 3.5.b.(7) of the solicitation.

OBJECTIVE: This topic seeks a lightweight flexible body armor system incorporating a shear thickening fluid or other technology that provides NIJ-IV level protection. The system shall be capable of providing protection from M80, APM2, M855, M993, and M995 rounds at muzzle velocity. The system shall provide flexibility for movement within the torso. The ballistic ensemble weight should not exceed 8 lbs/sq.ft. The flexible ballistic plates shall be resistant to adverse effects associated with aging, wear, and exposure to environmental factors such as humidity, moisture, extreme temperatures, and UV light.

DESCRIPTION: The rigid chest plate worn with the flexible vest as part of the body armor inhibits natural movement in the torso. The Marine Corps seeks ballistic protection that provides NIJ Level IV protection, but is flexible to allow for increased movement within the torso. The system should be compatible with the current and future USMC personal protective equipment (PPE).

PHASE I: Determine, insofar as possible, the scientific and technical approaches for the completion of the tasks:
- Determine suitable materials to enhance the ballistic performance of the material without adversely affecting weight, comfort, or flexibility.
- Provide a comprehensive analysis of the ballistic properties of this material.

PHASE II: Develop proof-of-concept demonstrators of systems to demonstrate possible configurations and properties within, including high energy ballistic impact testing.

PHASE III: Integrate proof-of-concept demonstrators with existing fielded protective equipment.

PRIVATE SECTOR COMMERCIAL POTENTIAL/DUAL-USE APPLICATIONS: This technology has application is the tactical and law enforcement sector to improve concealable body armor and vests currently in use. This technology facilitates movement, increasing the survivability and lethality of personnel in the law enforcement and military sector.

REFERENCES:
1. "New Body Armor Technology Aids Athletes". 25 February 2006. <http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2006/02/25/ap/tech/mainD8FVRME0E.shtml>.

2. "How Liquid Body Armor Works". 21 December 2007. <http://science.howstuffworks.com/liquid-body-armor1.htm>.

KEYWORDS: Ballistic; impact; armor; polymer; fragmentation; shear thickening.

** TOPIC AUTHOR (TPOC) **

DoD Notice:   Between April 21 and May 18, 2008, you may talk directly with the Topic Author(s) to ask technical questions about the topics. Their contact information is listed above. For reasons of competitive fairness, direct communication between proposers and topic authors is not allowed starting May 19, 2008, when DoD begins accepting proposals for this solicitation.

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