Multi- Purpose Body Armor Program of the South Korean army has selected ultra high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMwPE) fiber – Dyneema, as a raw material to produce enhanced lightweight body armor.

The Multi-Purpose Body Armor Program is part of South Korea’s efforts in soldier modernization, seeking to equip defense personnel with lightweight armor that provides enhanced protection over a large area of the body, thus increasing protection and survivability.

The multi-year program will see the Republic of Korea Army equipped with bullet-resistant vests and insert panels that incorporate UHMwPE uni-directional material from DSM Dyneema, capable of protecting against a wide range of ballistic threats including fragments and rifle ammunitions.

Production of the bullet-resistant vests and inserts is expected to start later this year and the high ballistic protection and low weight of Dyneema is expected to equip South Korean defense personnel more effectively for future challenges

“We are extremely pleased that Dyneema will be a ballistic protection material of choice for both vests and inserts for the multi-purpose body armor program in South Korea,” said Nicole Ng, Marketing Manager, Life Protection Segment, Asia Pacific, at DSM Dyneema.

“Dyneema provides multiple benefits as a lighter weight and more durable solution that does not compromise ballistic protection compared to conventional materials. It allows modern military defense personnel to carry more equipment, operate with greater agility, speed and comfort for longer periods of time,” she added.

Shitij Chabba, Global Segment Director, Life Protection at DSM Dyneema said, “The adoption of composite materials in general, and Dyneema in particular, meets the needs for soldier modernization programs for life protection around the world, and the South Korean Multi-purpose Body Armor program is another testament to DSM Dyneema’s innovative success.”