M3 PATTERN BODY ARMOUR

The M3 Pattern Personal Armor, also known as the Armored Vest, is the standard ballistic protective system employed by the United States Colonial Marine Corps (USCMC) in the 22nd century. Manufactured by ARMAT Battlefield Systems, the M3 armor balances lightness and comfort with optimum protection. Primarily concerned with shielding the torso, the M3 armor is complemented by the M10 Pattern Ballistic Helmet for head protection.

Overview

The M3 armor is inspired by the French armed forces' Cuirasse de Combat ("fighting armor") and features a multi-layered construction molded into a rigid shell. The outer layer consists of an ultra-light titanium-alumide alloy, providing structural strength and ablative protection against lasers. Beneath this is a core made of boron carbide resin bonded to a layer of graphite-composite carbon fiber. The boron carbide is designed to shatter bullets on impact while forming a conoid base to absorb energy. The carbon fiber layer provides additional ballistic protection by delaminating across a large area to absorb more energy. Inside the armor, a woven liner made of 1,500 denier Venlar fibers dissipates remaining energy and catches any spalling or fragmentation from the outer layers. Damaged pieces of the armor are replaced immediately to maintain protection.
The M3 armor's stopping power is somewhat limited against direct hits from high-velocity ammunition and High Explosive Armor Piercing rounds but can stop low-powered ammunition and provide some protection against impact-fused explosive bullets and grenade or artillery fragments. The armor also features stealth characteristics, such as curved surfaces to reduce radar signature and infrared masking.
Typically issued in woodland camouflage, the M3 armor is available in various patterns for different terrains and climates. The individual Marine's surname is printed on the front of the vest below the neck, and personalization with slogans or pictograms is common, although officially against regulations. The armor is fully adjustable and can be worn over the USCM standard IRC Mk.50 Compression suit for low-pressure environments.

Components

Vest

The primary component of the M3 armor is a rigid vest protecting the thoracic-abdominal region, front and back, between the upper abdomen and neck. The vest comprises a two-piece clamshell secured by plastic clips. Above each shoulder is a rigid load-bearing arch from which webbing straps hang. These arches are padded underneath to protect the shoulders when the armor is loaded with additional weight. Two segmented pieces protect the front and side of the shoulders. Inside the vest are remote biomonitors that track the wearer's life signs, with data transmitted to the PRC 489/4 Personal Data Transmitter in the M10 helmet. A bracket on the rear left shoulder attaches the TNR Shoulder Lamp, and mounting brackets on the back can accept the Individual Marine Pack (IMP) frame or life support unit for the Mk.50 Compression suit.

Abdomen

Below the vest, a separate section covers the front abdomen and groin with a flexible pad of rheological ballistic armor secured by a 'diaper' harness. A rigid armor plate protects the genitals.

Legs

The leg armor consists of clamshell greaves covering the lower leg from ankle to knee. Knee segments are articulated on webbing straps and tied around the leg.

Webbing

The armor includes Velcro-lined heavy-duty nylon webbing with side-release snap buckles, comprising an equipment belt and suspender-style bandoleers attached to the load-bearing shoulder pauldrons. Each bandoleer can hold 30mm rifle grenades, and various pouches can be attached for carrying items like a bypass kit, first aid kit, respirator, water hydration system, or spare ammunition. A combat knife or pistol holster can also be attached.

Practical Application

The M3 armor system's design reflects the needs of the USCMC for a versatile, protective, and adaptable system capable of performing in various environments. While the M3's protection is somewhat limited against the most advanced high-velocity rounds, its multi-layered construction offers significant defense against more common threats encountered in the field. The inclusion of stealth features, biomonitors, and the ability to carry extensive equipment makes the M3 a comprehensive protective solution for Colonial Marines.

by Open Source

ARMOR RATING: 6
WEIGHT: 1
AIR SUPPLY: -
COST: $1,200
COMMENT: Built-in comm unit

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Item type

Armor

Manufacturer

ARMAT BATTLEFIELD SYSTEMS

Owning Organization

UNITED STATES COLONIAL MARINE CORPS