The U.S. Military has a long and storied history—and body armor has played a crucial role in protecting American service members for decades.
Each branch of the armed forces—Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard—requires advanced protection solutions for personnel operating in hostile environments.
In this post, we’ll explore the body armor systems currently used across the military, including elite units like the U.S. Special Forces, Army Rangers, Navy SEALs, Green Berets, Marine Raiders, National Guard, and more. We’ll also touch on body armor worn by first responders and law enforcement, and how military-grade armor is now available to civilians through innovative providers like Rook Armor.
The Basics: Interceptor Body Armor (IBA)
The most widely used body armor in the U.S. Military is the Interceptor Body Armor (IBA) system—a bullet-resistant plate carrier designed to stop small-arms fire and shrapnel. When equipped with ballistic plates, this armor can withstand high-velocity impacts from rifle rounds and explosive fragments.
In more dangerous scenarios, troops may wear heavier systems like the Improved Outer Tactical Vest (IOTV) or Enhanced Small Arms Protective Inserts (E-SAPI), both of which offer greater protection against rifle-caliber projectiles.
As threats evolve, so does the technology. A new Lightweight Small Arms Protective Plate (LSAPP) is currently in development, offering similar protection to E-SAPI plates with less weight—making it more wearable for extended missions.
U.S. Special Forces: Agility Meets Protection
Special Forces units—including Navy SEALs, Army Rangers, and Green Berets—are frequently deployed in high-risk, complex missions. Their armor must be lightweight, modular, and mission-adaptable.
Green Berets: Specialized Protection
Established in 1952, the Green Berets have seen combat in Vietnam, Afghanistan, and other regions requiring unconventional warfare tactics. Originally equipped with the IBA system, they transitioned to the IOTV in 2007 for enhanced mobility and protection.
This upgrade also introduced Enhanced SAPI plates, capable of defeating multiple hits of 7.62x51mm rounds. In 2018, the Modular Scalable Vest (MSV) began replacing the IOTV, delivering lighter, more versatile protection with better sizing options and adaptability to mission gear.
Army Rangers: Ready for Anything
Formed in 1943, the U.S. Army Rangers are elite light infantry, known for raids, reconnaissance, and airfield seizures. Due to similar operational needs, they use the same armor systems as Green Berets—including the IOTV, MSV, and E-SAPI inserts.
Navy SEALs: Maritime-Adapted Armor
The Navy SEALs specialize in maritime operations and require body armor that balances protection with buoyancy. Their IOTVs are often customized with CO₂ cartridge compartments for flotation assistance during waterborne missions. Heavier armor is typically reserved for land operations to preserve agility in aquatic environments.
U.S. Marine Raiders (MARSOC)
MARSOC units initially used the Modular Tactical Vest (MTV), but as warfare shifted toward mountainous terrain, the lighter Scalable Plate Carrier (SPC) became preferred. In 2011, the Improved Modular Tactical Vest (IMTV) was introduced, and it is gradually being replaced by the Improved Scalable Plate Carrier (ISPC)—both offering high customization and protection.
U.S. Army Infantry
The general infantry continues to use variants of the IBA system alongside E-SAPI plates. Additionally, the military is testing the next generation of plates, known as XSAPI, which may resist multiple hits from 7.62x54mm armor-piercing rounds. These plates are reinforced with ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene for added protection against fragmentation.
U.S. Navy and Marines
Like other branches, the Navy and Marine Corps rely heavily on the IBA system for general infantry. Marines also wear Kevlar helmets and use flotation-enabled vests in amphibious or maritime operations.
U.S. Air Force
Airmen require lightweight armor that won’t interfere with aircraft systems. In combat zones, they may wear heavier Kevlar vests and helmets, while those on base or in training rely on lighter, more comfortable ballistic protection systems. Helmet-mounted displays and night vision gear are also standard for many combat roles.
National Guard Infantry
The National Guard uses the IBA system, often with flotation-capable plate carriers for domestic operations involving water-based threats. Their armor varies by mission and location but aligns closely with the equipment used by other branches.
First Responders and Law Enforcement
Unlike the military, civilian first responders prioritize armor optimized for mobility and concealment. Most wear NIJ-rated soft or hard body armor made from Kevlar or similar materials. These slim-profile vests allow for freedom of movement and the ability to wear the armor under a uniform.
Firefighters: Unique Needs
Firefighters use gear specially treated for heat and flame resistance. In high-risk situations, they may also wear ballistic vests to safeguard against secondary threats during civil unrest or active shooter incidents.
Can Civilians Buy Military-Grade Armor?
Yes—military-grade armor is now available to civilians, though it’s significantly more expensive and heavier than law enforcement or personal-use models.
Rook Armor offers advanced body armor solutions that match or exceed military-grade protection, with options rated up to NIJ Level IV.
For most civilians, NIJ Level III or IIIA armor provides a more practical (and affordable) solution—particularly for home defense, travel security, or occupational protection.
As body armor technology continues to evolve, providers like Rook Armor are bringing military-grade protection to both professionals and civilians alike. Whether you're in the field, on patrol, or just prioritizing safety in uncertain times, Rook Armor offers the advanced protection you need—without compromising comfort or mobility.