TYR Tactical

Archive for the ‘Armor’ Category

FirstSpear Friday Focus: Siege-R Optimized Vest

Friday, August 14th, 2026

The SIEGE-R OPTIMIZED VEST is one of FirstSpear’s most proven platforms, built for users who require armor protection and expanded load-carrying capability without the excessive bulk of traditional load-bearing systems. Utilizing the proven form, fit, and function of the original Siege-R and integrated with the performance-enhancing properties of 6/12™ and Tubes™ technology, the SIEGE-R OPTIMIZED VEST delivers a scalable, modular armor carrier built for training, duty, and demanding field environments. Internal plate pockets make the system slimmer and better suited for confined and tubular spaces, while TUBES® Rapid Release closure allows the operator to don and doff the vest with one hand in under 15 seconds using the same muscle memory as daily use.

Features:

  • TUBES® RAPID RELEASE — DON/DOFF WITH ONE HAND IN SECONDS
  • INTERNAL PLATE POCKETS — SLIMMER PROFILE FOR CONFINED SPACES
  • MODULAR 6/12™ COMPATIBLE PLATFORM
  • ACCEPTS SAPI, SWIMMER/SHOOTER, SPEAR BALCS SOFT ARMOR, AND FULL SIZE PLATES

At its core, the SIEGE-R OPTIMIZED VEST features fully adjustable shoulder pads with TUBES™ front and back for rapid switch-out to the MASS Shoulder System, a removable internal bellyband, and an exterior cummerbund enhanced with FirstSpear High-Performance elastic webbing. Quick-drying airflow mesh on the interior reduces overall weight and sheds water quickly. Available in Black, Coyote, Manatee Grey, Multicam, and Ranger Green in sizes S through XL. Ballistic armor inserts complying with NIJ Category IIIA.06 or specific military specification requirements are available from FirstSpear for an additional fee.

Built for military personnel, law enforcement officers, and prepared professionals who demand reliable equipment, the Siege-R Optimized Vest delivers armor protection and load-carrying capability in a scalable, mission-ready platform. FirstSpear is the premier source for cutting-edge tactical gear for military, law enforcement, and those who train. To request an estimate, visit First-Spear.com/Request-For-Estimate. For more information, visit First-Spear.com.

MATBOCK Monday: ARC Ghost Carrier

Monday, August 10th, 2026

The ARC Ghost was released at Shot Show and the MATBOCK team just shared this with us.

During Shot Show the ARC Ghost was undoubtedly our most requested product and is currently on trial with several units. UCAS is coming as soon as the standards are released.

Here is an overview video of the carrier:

The ARC Ghost was specifically designed for the water and the complexities of the maritime mission. Using innovative designs by Shaw Concepts and MATBOCK ghost this carrier is lightweight, durable, and will not soak up any water or hold sand. It features quick release tubes in three locations, a drag handle and Shaw Concepts’ unique plate bags that easily support armor, behind the plate IFAKs and flotation!

Features:

  • Superior heat transfer properties from our proprietary Ghost material.
  • Maritime release and quick casualty access with three First Spears Tubes®
  • Integrated Comm Cable management along the sides of the plate via the ‘Spider Tabs’
  • Accepts Industry standard Placards and MOLLE/PALS pouches
  • StratusFit™ Pads Internal Molded Foam
  • Front Chest Velcro® Loop Field for ID
  • MOLLE/PALS for Chest Mounted Pouches / EUDs
  • Integrated padded drag handle
  • Shockcord Cummerbund integration for improved breathing

If you’d like to get a quote, email sales@matbock.com

United Shield International and NP Aerospace Join Forces to Enhance Support for US Law Enforcement Bomb Disposal Teams

Thursday, August 6th, 2026

NP Aerospace, the global armor manufacturer, has formed a strategic partnership with United Shield International, a US manufacturer and specialist provider of advanced ballistic and blast protection solutions for law enforcement and military customers. The partnership brings together two complementary businesses that will strengthen the delivery and through-life support for the NP Aerospace 4030 ELITE Bomb Suit and Helmet System across the US law enforcement market.

The collaboration combines NP Aerospace’s advanced protective technology and EOD suit capabilities with United Shield International’s specialist law enforcement expertise, established customer networks, and dedicated US-based sales and support infrastructure. Together, the two organisations will provide bomb disposal units with streamlined access to the 4030 ELITE system, underpinned by comprehensive technical assistance and operational training.

Certified to the rigorous US National Institute of Justice (NIJ) 0117.01 Public Safety Bomb Suit Standard, the 4030 ELITE Bomb Suit and Helmet System is an established solution for global public safety and military agencies. It delivers advanced blast resistance and operational performance alongside exceptional mobility, comfort and is available in five-sizes. This strategic alliance signals a shared commitment to delivering innovative technology backed by expert through-lifecycle support.

The partnership is designed to provide its customers with access to one of only two companies with a bomb suit that meets the NIJ-certified level of accreditation, providing an extensively tested, quality controlled and audited product. Additionally, the collaboration will utilise United Shield International’s dedicated US-based service support, enhanced product demonstrations and training, ensuring responsive aftermarket support designed to maximise operational readiness.

Brian Banducci, President of United Shield International, said, “Bomb technicians operate within the most demanding environments in public safety, necessitating the best equipment backed by exemplary customer support. Through this strategic partnership with NP Aerospace, we are integrating world-class bomb protection systems with a dedicated through-life support framework designed to serve US law enforcement agencies throughout every stage of procurement and subsequent deployment. Our shared objective is to cultivate enduring partnership, providing operators with the absolute confidence that expert technical assistance remains continuously accessible.”

James Kemptston, CEO NP Aerospace, added, “NP Aerospace has established an international reputation for engineering innovative, high performance EOD protective systems designed to address the dynamic requirements of bomb disposal technicians. Aligning with United Shield International marks a pivotal advancement in amplifying the calibre of support accessible to our US Law Enforcement personnel, uniting deep technical engineering expertise with localised operational presence. As modern bomb squads evolve their capabilities, agencies increasingly prioritise trusted partnerships, agile support and long-term asset sustainment alongside core product efficacy. This alliance underscores our mutual dedication to safeguarding those who serve, delivering pioneering solutions reinforced by seasoned EOD engineering professionals.”

SKD Armor Loop Covered Plate (LCP) and Ferro Concepts LCP Harness Kit In Stock at SKD Tactical

Friday, July 31st, 2026

St. Louis, MO (July 31, 2026) – SKD Tactical, LLC., now stocking the SKD Armor LCP (Loop Covered Plate) and the Ferro Concepts LCP Harness Kit.

Created for ultra low-vis applications, the SKD Armor Loop Covered Plate (LCP), Special Threat (Patented) defeats the following threats:

7.62×39 PS Ball (MSC)

5.56×45 M193

5.56×45 M855

7.62×39 API BZ

The Ferro Concepts LCP Harness Kit provides minimalist Plate Armor capability at a scant 8.3 oz. Because the cummerbund and shoulder straps attach at any angle desired by the wearer, the FC LCP Harness Kit offers more adjustability for an optimal fit than any other plate carrier on the market. Designed in close partnership with SKD Armor, the FC LCP Harness Kit is the new king of minimalist/ultra low-vis plate armor.

The SKD Armor LCP is available in Grey and Black, and currently in Medium SAPI only.  The FC LCP Harness Kits are available in sizes S/M and L/XL, and in Black only.

Please direct all inquiries to cs@skdtac.com.

FirstSpear Friday Focus: Low Visibility Plate Carrier (LVPC)

Friday, July 17th, 2026

Protection doesn’t have to announce itself. The FirstSpear LOW VISIBILITY PLATE CARRIER is engineered for the modern operator who demands maximum performance with minimal presence. Designed for plainclothes operations, undercover roles, and urban environments where stealth is non-negotiable, the LVPC combines a discreet profile with advanced functionality that full-duty carriers are built around. Front-integrated shoulder straps reduce obstruction and keep your silhouette clean, while a compression fit on the user side keeps plates locked in place and out of the way.

Features:

  • Low-Profile Design for Plainclothes Operations
  • Placard-Ready with Full Loop Surfaces
  • Integrated Left/Right Radio Pockets
  • Infinitely Adjustable Fast Cummerbund

At its core, the LOW VISIBILITY PLATE CARRIER is built around modularity and mission adaptability. Available in SAPI and Swimmer cut configurations to fit a range of body types and operational requirements, and offered in Black and Manatee Grey, the LVPC kit includes your choice of front and back panels along with a FAST Cummerbund that adjusts from S to 3XL. Whether you are running an undercover detail or a plainclothes protection assignment, the LVPC keeps you protected without compromising your cover.

Built for military personnel, law enforcement officers, and prepared professionals who demand reliable equipment, the LOW VISIBILITY PLATE CARRIER delivers full-spectrum protection without sacrificing discretion or mobility. Where reliability meets low profile. FirstSpear is the premier source for cutting-edge tactical gear for military, law enforcement, and those who train. For more information visit First-Spear.com.

NP Aerospace to Acquire ITEN Defense and Expand Into the US Market

Tuesday, June 23rd, 2026

Coventry, UK — 22 Jun 26 — NP Aerospace, a leading global armour technology manufacturer and vehicle integrator, today announced that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Iten Defense, a U.S. based specialist provider of advanced defence protection solutions, from Edgewater Capital Partners and other minority shareholders.

The acquisition will strengthen NP Aerospace’s and Iten’s portfolio of survivability and protection technologies, enhancing its ability to support defence and security customers with mission-critical armour solutions across global markets.

“This is an important strategic step for NP Aerospace as we continue to invest in advanced protection technologies and expand our capabilities for customers worldwide,” said James Kempston, Chief Executive Officer of NP Aerospace. “Iten Defense brings strong technical expertise, manufacturing capacity, and complementary capabilities, and we look forward to working with the team following completion.”

“In close partnership with Iten’s management team, we’ve transformed the business over the past few years through a series of strategic initiatives and investments in expanded capabilities. We are confident that the combination with NP Aerospace will further accelerate Iten’s growth as a leader in advanced protection solutions,” said Pete Ostergard, Managing Partner of Edgewater Capital.

Iten Defense CEO, Damon Walsh, commented: “This is great news for Iten and, more importantly, for our customers. As a larger global enterprise with combined engineering and technical know-how, we will be well placed to respond to today’s increasingly complex defense requirements at a pace to best serve our customers’ needs.”

Until closing, NP Aerospace and Iten Defense will continue to operate as independent businesses.

Completion of the transaction remains subject to customary closing conditions, including certain government and regulatory approvals. The transaction will close promptly following satisfaction of these conditions. Further details of the transaction were not disclosed.

RTS Tactical Receives US Patent, Raising the Standard for Ballistic Shield Protection

Monday, June 22nd, 2026

U.S. Patent No. 12,624,927 Recognizes RTS Tactical’s Innovative Boltless Viewport Assembly for Ballistic Shields

RTS Tactical, a leading manufacturer of body armor and tactical gear solutions for our men and women in uniform, announced that it has been awarded another U.S. Patent for its Boltless Viewport for a Ballistic Shield.

Designed to address longstanding challenges associated with traditional Ballistic Shield Glass viewport construction, the patented system reflects RTS Tactical’s mission to Raise The Standard for modern body armor.

Traditional ballistic shield viewports typically rely on bolts or adhesive systems to secure transparent armor to the shield body. While widely used throughout the industry, these methods can introduce gaps, weak points, and can degrade under heat or repeated impact. RTS Tactical’s patented boltless viewport assembly was developed to create a more reliable solution, eliminating the need for traditional viewport bolts or boltless systems that rely on adhesives, while providing a secure mechanical connection of the viewport to the shield body.

The newly patented technology is currently featured in several RTS Tactical ballistic shield platforms, including the LEGION Ballistic Shield, Centurion Ballistic Shield, and Lead Entry Ballistic Shield, all designed to meet the evolving needs of law enforcement and tactical professionals operating in high-risk environments.

The issuance of U.S. Patent No. 12,624,927 represents more than intellectual property protection. It serves as recognition of RTS Tactical’s continued investment in research, development, and advanced engineering.

Ferro Concepts – 5AC Cobra Buckle Kit

Friday, June 19th, 2026

The new 5AC Cobra Buckle Kit converts the 5″ Assault Cummerbund front Velcro interface into a rugged, quick-release buckle connection that secures directly to the front plate pockets.

Features:

  • Compatible with the 5″ Assault Cummerbund only
  • Constructed with laser cut thermoplastic
  • Does not reflect under IR light/NOD
  • No modification required to 5″ Assault Cummerbund
  • No loss of MOLLE on 5″ Assault Cummerbund
  • Made in USA

ferroconcepts.com/products/5ac-cobra-kit