The Irish Defence Forces are set to receive a major equipment upgrade as part of an ongoing modernization initiative. A €16.5 million (approx. $17.8 million USD) contract has been awarded to Belgian body armor manufacturer Seyntex NV for the delivery of 6,105 advanced body armor systems, with the option for an additional 2,000 units if required.
This marks a significant milestone in the Irish military’s long-standing effort to replace outdated protective gear. The new modular armor—designed to improve both protection and mobility—is expected to be delivered by the fourth quarter of 2025.
A Modern Solution to Longstanding Challenges
For years, troops have voiced concerns about the limitations of their current ballistic vests, which restrict the ability to properly shoulder a weapon and lack modular attachment capabilities. The new armor systems, referred to as IMBAS (Individual Modular Body Armour System), are designed to resolve these issues.
Developed in-house by the Defence Forces Ordnance Corps, IMBAS offers scalable protection through a modular system that incorporates hard armor plates made of ceramic or metal to safeguard vital organs. The design is similar to plate carrier systems already in use by elite units like the Army Ranger Wing and other international armed forces.
Designed for the Battlefield of Today
Unlike the older generation of armor, which offers solid ballistic protection but hinders mobility, IMBAS is engineered to enhance both survivability and functionality. The system allows for mission-specific customization—troops can add or remove components based on operational needs, giving them a flexible edge in combat scenarios.
In addition to stopping rounds from firearms, the armor provides increased resistance against fragmentation threats, ensuring comprehensive protection in both conventional and peacekeeping environments.
Statement from the Minister for Defence
Tánaiste and Minister for Defence Simon Harris TD emphasized the importance of this upgrade during a recent visit to Irish troops stationed with the UNIFIL peacekeeping mission in Lebanon.
“The safety of our Defence Forces personnel is a top priority,” said Harris. “This new body armor will provide state-of-the-art protection for our soldiers as they carry out their vital work, often in volatile and high-risk environments. Proper investment in force protection is essential to supporting our men and women in uniform.”
Complementary Equipment on the Horizon
The rollout of the IMBAS armor system is part of a broader modernization strategy. New combat uniforms and helmets are also in the works, although the procurement process for the uniforms has been delayed due to an ongoing legal challenge. These efforts reflect the Defence Forces’ commitment to aligning with NATO standards and international best practices in troop protection.
