Ballistic Modular Structure: The Complete Guide

A true technological advancement in individual combatant equipment, the plate carrier or SMB combat vest, for ballistic modular structure, results from a fusion between the ballistic protection vest (GPB) and the electronic vest (GE). Thanks to the SMB vest, the infantry combatant can, according to the requirements of their mission, configure their equipment (radio, computer, magazines, etc.) as they see fit while maintaining ballistic protection. The ergonomics of an SMB or SMBE (Electronic Ballistic Modular Structure) combat vest offer unprecedented mobility, thus enhancing their effectiveness in the field.

As you can see, this new type of combat vest far surpasses the old tactical vests and other military harnesses of the past. Manufacturers are well aware of this and compete every year to further improve this type of individual equipment. To help you make the right choice among the many models available on the market, we will detail in this guide the different types of plate carriers that exist and the questions to ask to equip yourself properly.

A vest according to the level of intensity

Like any tactical equipment, the choice of model will depend on the type of operation. Depending on the requirements of your missions, you will need to add or remove ballistic elements.

High intensity: In high-intensity combat configuration, ballistic protection is prioritized over freedom of movement. In this sense, you will need to attach soft ballistic protections to your SMB vest on the shoulders, neck, or lower abdomen, or even additional side ballistic protection plates.

Normal intensity: Conversely, in normal-intensity combat configuration, you can remove these different elements to gain mobility while of course keeping the minimum required in terms of ballistic protection.

Technical characteristics

Reviewed every year by manufacturers, the technical characteristics are numerous and vary from one vest to another. Here are the most common:

Quick-Release Buckles: Present on the new SMB vests issued to each French soldier, the Quick-Release (QR) system allows the vest to be removed from its user with a quick hand movement in case of emergency or simply to take it off once the mission is over.	Emergency Extraction Handle: As its name suggests, this handle is mainly used in emergencies to quickly pull the soldier out of a tight spot.
MOLLE System: Laser-cut or sewn in strips, the MOLLE system is the main feature of the SMB vest. It is thanks to this system that the user can configure their equipment (magazine pouches, pockets, etc.) on their vest as desired.	Velcro Placement: Usually located at the top of the SMB vest, both front and back, this hook-and-loop fabric placement is intended to attach identifiers such as name tapes, unit insignia, and others.
Shoulder Reinforcement: Very often, the plate carrier has padded shoulder straps, but it can also have additional reinforcement, sometimes removable, which may or may not have loops for hydration tubes or communication cables.

The materials used

Nylon: all plate carriers, with a few rare exceptions, are made of nylon (sometimes called ballistic nylon). What differs from one vest to another is the type of nylon used, and more specifically its thickness. It is measured in deniers; the higher the number of deniers, the thicker and therefore stronger the fabric will be, but it will also be heavier. Generally, an SMB vest made of 600 denier nylon (600D) will be suitable for most field missions, but if you want a more robust vest, you will need to opt for 1000D nylon or more (be careful, however, as the wear of equipment or clothing usually occurs at the seams and not on the fabric itself).

Polyester: polyester fibers, very breathable by nature, are generally found inside the vest in the padding. The goal is to improve comfort and wick away sweat.

Other materials: thermoplastic polymers are also found in the Quick-Release buckles, or other materials specific to brands like Blue Force Gear's ULTRAcomp® for example.

Wearing your combat vest properly

Let's remember: the primary purpose of an SMB vest is to protect the soldier against ballistic projectiles and more specifically high-velocity armor-piercing ammunition. But it is important to know that a poorly worn vest can be catastrophic in the event of an impact. Unfortunately, many users do not know how to wear their combat vest properly, making them vulnerable. Here are some tips:

1. The top of the front plate should be aligned with the top of the sternum.
   
   
2. The top of the back plate should be aligned just at mid-height of the shoulder blades. Positioned this way, the front and back plates will cover your vital organs to the maximum and ensure optimal protection.
   
   
3. The side plates should be worn as high as possible from the hips but should not hinder arm movement. These additional protections may seem trivial, but they are actually extremely valuable as they protect your lungs from side impacts.

As for the size of the vest, the first thing to check is its compatibility with your ballistic plates; they must fit perfectly, otherwise, they will float in the vest, making your movements cumbersome.

Modern SMB vests are often available in several sizes, and almost all of them are adjustable. Once the vest is adjusted to your size and configured according to your needs, you just need to put it on. However, remember to "check" your adjustments and configuration before going on a mission; it takes just a few seconds and will give you peace of mind to carry out your mission successfully.

See our selection of SMB vests

A sporting use

Repurposed from its primary function, the plate carrier is now used by many athletes during strength training sessions. It is perfectly suitable for activities like crossfit, for example. Of course, the ballistic protection plate is replaced by a weight of the same size but without ballistic properties.