Ballistic Gauntlet Employment and Overview: The Ballistic Gauntlet is a modular, multi-threat, soft- and hard-body armor system that protects the lower extremities of vehicle operators and occupants. The primary goal of the system is to offer 360-degree protection to the vital organs of the lower waist and back, and protect the lower extremities. It provides a scalable measure of protection mitigating injuries from blast, thermal, fragmentation (primary and secondary), and ballistic threats resulting from Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) or Small Arms Fire (SAF). The system is adaptable and flexible, fitting multiple seat positions in virtually any military or commercial vehicle. The Ballistic Gauntlet is a non-developmental prototype system. The basic composition of the system includes both soft- and hard-armor components. The soft-armor component is comprised of Aramid Ballistic Material covered in a rugged nylon jacket for durability. The design also incorporated two sets of overlapping flaps (Aramid Ballistic Material), to provide enhanced protection to the upper legs and shins from lateral and vertical threats. These flaps provide a “cocoon” protective effect for the user while not interfering with vehicle operation, weapons employment, or adversely affecting endurance. In addition, these flaps provide a measure of protection against wounds caused by sharp protrusions (i.e., sharp, jagged corners, poor vehicle ergonomics) as a consequence of impact or explosive shock. Hard- armor inserts are incorporated in critical areas (upper & lower leg, floor, and firewall) to protect against threats posed by higher-velocity fragments and significant ballistic threats (e.g.7.62). |
