Will Kevlar and ceramic ballistic plates become a thing of a past as the go to ballistic protection for troops? If the BAE Systems and Helios Global Technologies will have their way with the “Liquid Armour” and if it works as claimed, then troops can to the battlefield better protected as well as more nimble as compared to existing ballistic protection gear.

Not exactly a new technology as this concept has been in the development since early this century, Liquid Armour is getting more attention in recent years. With the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between BAE Systems and Helios to develop Liquid Armour for ground troops, we see this as moving faster that it will be seen in the battlefield in the future.

In a press release by BAE Systems, Anne Healey, BAE Systems’ General Manager  Canada said: “Liquid armour could offer our troops increased protection but be lighter, allowing for greater manoeuvrability.

I’m pleased we have been able to sign this MoU with Helios as their reputation in ballistic and blast protection means they’re well placed to help deliver this capability to Canada in the future.”

Kevlar and ballistic plates shatter upon the impact of the projectile to absorb the blow. Liquid Armour, or also known as the “custard-style” vest is designed to harden when hit. When combined with Kevlar, the particles of viscous fluid inside the armour lock together upon the impact of the projectile, thereby forming a solid barrier and spread the impact over a wider area.

This makes the combination stronger and what is even better is that it is lighter and thinner of around 45% than other armour. This allows for greater manoeuvrability and easy integration with other systems.

It will be interesting to monitor the progress of Liquid Armour and whether the Canadian Military would be interested in adopting it for their own use. For militaries looking for better and lighter ballistic protection for their soldiers, Liquid Armour offers a big potential.