Body Armor Lessons Learned
(5) Body Armor
- All soldiers interviewed wore the Interceptor Body Armor (IBA).
- 1-187 In Commander (101st Abn Div) stated that he had no difficulty keeping his soldiers in their IBAs.
- All soldiers had at least one SAPI plate and if they only had one, they wore it on the front.
- Soldiers complained that the inflexible nature of the back plate hindered their mobility.
- 43% of soldiers stated that the IBA hindered their mobility, especially in assuming and operating in the prone firing position.
- Rear SAPI plate caused interference with the PASGT helmet when in prone position and with the ALICE rucksack frame. Many soldiers removed rear SAPI plate during dismounted movements when wearing their ALICE rucksacks
- Proper sizing was an issue. One soldier was killed when he was shot through the side and the bullet passed between the front and rear armor by the sizing straps.
- IBA collars, neck guard, and groin protection generally not worn.
- Soldiers complained that the arms holes are too small and that they lose circulation in their arms, especially when wearing their rucksacks.