Tri-Service

Reports: Troops Complain About "Sub-Standard" Body Armour

Cover image: Library photo

Virtus body armour was built to improve life for British troops.

Instead, the BBC and other news outlets have reported that they’re getting multiple complaints about it.

They include claims that its webbing, where ammunition and kit is stored, has been snapping, and that it gives limited space for extra equipment such as radios and medical supplies.

It's also been suggested that if troops go to ground with it they find it hard to get back up.

The father of one serving soldier issued with the equipment told the BBC he was "appalled" that service personnel were being issued with what he considered to be "sub-standard kit".

He added that they were also unable to fit all their equipment into the new rucksacks and had trouble putting the armour on in the dark.

Comments on social media, meanwhile, suggested it "should be used as fire fuel", while others said: "Just about room for a Mars bar and biscuits" and "Snapping!"

Replacing the outmoded Osprey armour, the new Virtus variety is intended to be lighter and more modular, making it easier to add or subtract pouches for kit.

Speaking for the MoD, Major Ollie Braithwaite has said that "The Virtus system is a significant improvement on our previous equipment" and that "feedback has been largely positive."

Virtus kit incorporates a dynamic weight distribution system, easing the burden on the spine, and has lightened the load from the hefty 22kg soldiers had been hauling before.

Major Braithwaite has also said that "as with any new system we have identified some issues… and we are working with the manufacturer to make further improvements.”

He stressed that the government want feedback from users and that "soldiers should be reassured that we have the ability to make these changes."

More: British Soldiers Test New Lighter Body Armour