A Novel Concept of Lightweight Composite Armor for Ballistic Protection of Tactical Vehicles

The objective of the proposed research is to develop a new lightweight composite hybrid structure armor using a combination of three major subsystem modules for tactical ground vehicle ballistic protection. The three modules are an advanced ceramic composite face plate, an optimally designed composite back plate module with the BTR (Bio-mimetic Tendon-Reinforced) material developed at MKP Inc., and an optimally designed web system. The armor structures and materials will be designed using an award-winning optimization technique and associated computational code, called Function-Oriented material Design, developed at MKP Inc. Features of the proposed composite armor system include ultra-light-weight, flexibility, superior ballistic and blast resistance, superior strength and durability for structural integrity, capability to resist heat and flame, ease of manufacture, maintenance and repair and versatile military and commercial vehicle applications. The focus of the Phase II research is on prototyping and proof-of-concept through ballistic testing. Virtual testing will occur to refine the design concept and optimize the armor system with respect to its functions in the system without wasting any material. Field/ballistic testing will determine structural properties of candidate designs, threat protection, and heat and flammability resistances, as well as ensure achievement of performance specifications of the Army. Proof-of-concept will be subjected to performance, flexibility, schedule, weight, ease of installation, and repair and cost.