Flexible FI/RA ballistic plates – Pangolin Défense® manufactured in France, available in two protection levels NIJ III++: SS109 / VPAM 7 and API BZ / VPAM 8. Based on a patented technology of encapsulated ceramic + composite backing, they are among the lightest and most flexible plates on the market for their protection level, improving comfort in vehicles and in forced shooting positions without compromising multi-hit resistance.

The plates are sold per unit (side plates are supplied in pairs). If stock runs out, reservations are accepted, with an estimated delivery time of 2 weeks.

Technology common to both models

• Patented technology: encapsulated ceramic with composite backing.
• Multiaxial flexibility: the plate follows the shape of the torso, improving comfort during extended wear.
• Optimized lightness: excellent weight-to-protection ratio.
• Multi-hit and anti-puncture in line with military requirements.
• Trauma reduction: backface deformation ≤ 35 mm (25 mm against armor-piercing ammunition).
• Rounded edges, waterproof cover and recommended flat storage.
• French manufacture and 5-year warranty.
• Tested in a certified NIJ laboratory; test reports are publicly available.

Model 1 · NIJ III++ SS109 / VPAM 7 (FI/RA FLEX™)

A level designed for those seeking more protection than a standard NIJ III without the weight increase of an NIJ IV. Stops 5.56×45 with partial steel core (M855 / SS109), commonly used in modern assault rifles.

• Stops: 5.56×45 SS109 / M855 · 7.62×51 NATO M80 · 7.62×39 MSC (AK-47).
• SAPI weight: 2.0 kg (±5%) / 21 mm in Stand Alone configuration · 1.8 kg (±5%) / 18 mm in ICW.
• Swimmer Cut weight: 1.9 kg (±5%) / 21 mm in Stand Alone · 1.6 kg (±5%) / 18 mm in ICW.
• Side plates (pair): 1.4 kg (±5%).
• User profile: private security, support units, moderate-risk operations, and civilian users who prioritize mobility.

Ballistic tests (NIJ laboratory)

• 5,56×45 SS109 – 955 m/s – 6 shots – NIJ 0101.06 (specific) – backface deformation: 12 mm.
• 7,62×51 NATO M80 – 847 m/s – 6 shots – NIJ 0101.06 – backface deformation: 37 mm.

View the tests here.

Model 2 · NIJ III++ API BZ / VPAM 8 (FI/RA)

Higher level, designed to stop AK-type armor-piercing ammunition (7.62×39 API BZ), which is widely used and especially demanding for armor. It is the choice when classic NIJ III is no longer sufficient, while maintaining better weight and maneuverability than an NIJ IV.

• Stops: 7.62×51 NATO M80 · 7.62×39 API BZ (armor-piercing) · 7.62×54R LPS · 5.56×45 M193 and M855 / SS109.
• FI/RA FLEX weight (SAPI): 2.3 kg (±5%) in Stand Alone · 2.0 kg (±5%) in ICW.
• Thickness: 24 mm in Stand Alone · 21 mm in ICW.
• Side plates (pair): 1.4 kg (PRO) / 1.6 kg (FLEX).
• User profile: intervention units, special groups, and high-risk missions.

Ballistic tests (NIJ laboratory)

• 7,62×51 NATO M80 – 847 m/s – 6 shots – NIJ 0101.06 – backface deformation: 33 mm.
• 7,62×39 API BZ – 740 m/s – 2 shots – NIJ 0101.06 (specific) – backface deformation: 24,5 mm.
• 7,62×54R LPS – 870 m/s – 2 shots – NIJ 0101.06 (specific) – backface deformation: 41 mm.

Against 7.62×39 API BZ armor-piercing ammunition, backface deformation is approximately 50% below the limit allowed by the NIJ standard, placing this plate among the best on the market for trauma reduction.

View the test report here.

Which model should you choose?

• SS109 / VPAM 7: lighter and thinner. Ideal if the main threat is assault rifles with conventional ammunition (5.56 M855, 7.62×51 M80, 7.62×39 MSC) and mobility and extended wear are the priority.
• API BZ / VPAM 8: about 300 g and 3 mm more, in exchange for protection against AK armor-piercing ammunition and against 7.62×54R LPS. It is the right choice if there is a real risk of armor-piercing rounds.

Available configurations and formats

• Stand Alone (SA): the plate protects on its own, with no additional panel required.
• ICW (In Conjunction With): the plate is used together with a NIJ IIIA soft panel, reducing the weight and thickness of the setup.
• SAPI cut M: 25×30 cm (the most common for plate carriers).
• L SAPI cut: 26×33 cm (available in the API BZ / VPAM 8 model).
• Swimmer Cut: 25×30 cm, greater freedom of movement in the shoulders and arms.
• Side plates (pair): 15×10 cm, 15×15 cm and 15×20 cm.

It is essential to select the level, configuration (SA or ICW), and format before adding the product to the cart.

Composition

• Fibers: UHMWPE (Dyneema®) and para-aramid (DuPont®).
• Ceramic: alumina (CoorsTek®).
• Outer cover: polyamide with PU coating.

Usage recommendations

• Check format compatibility with your Plate carrier (SAPI 25×30 cm is the standard).
• For intensive operational use, the combination of plate + trauma pad is recommended: it significantly reduces backface deformation and blunt impact injuries, improving comfort during extended wear and in multiple-impact scenarios.
• In ICW configuration, remember to add a NIJ IIIA soft panel to achieve full protection.

Maintenance

• Clean the cover with a damp cloth or sponge.
• Do not use detergents or chemical products.
• Air dry only, with no heat sources.
• Store flat, avoiding permanent bends.

Why choose Pangolin flexible plates
Designed and manufactured in France by Pangolin Défense®, these plates have been combat-validated in Ukraine and adopted by forces in Denmark, Sweden, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, Germany, and the Middle East. All testing is carried out in certified NIJ laboratories, and the results are published with full transparency.