The U.S. Department of Defense has developed Kevlar shorts for the troops, to provide protection from one the more common fatal wounds, a severed femoral artery. When this blood vessel is cut, large quantities of blood are lost quickly, and it is difficult to stop the bleeding. The femoral artery is deep in the thigh, making a tourniquet difficult to apply. The new shorts, weighing eight pounds, also protect the genital area from shell or bomb fragments. The new shorts are not bullet proof (but will stop some pistol bullets and ricochets), has 28 layers of Kevlar material, weighs eight pounds and are bulky. The infantry won't use them because of the weight and movement restrictions. But for troops escorting convoys, they are a welcome bit of additional protection against roadside bomb fragments. The new Kevlar shorts have not been issued yet, and are still being field tested.
Funny how we get closer and closer to fielding knights in suits of armor again. I wonder if we'll ever come up with another weapon that will defeat all modern armor and begin the cycle anew? |