Functional upgrades were numerous, tailoring the armor's functionality to the mission profile and included special linings (fire-retardant asbestos, radiation-resistant lead, or the unique BioCommMesh enhancing combat drug duration), lightened construction, upgraded combat webbing, melee modifications, weapon stabilization, and various customizations of the armor profile and silhouette to improve performance in close combat. Common material included additional reinforcement, “shadowing” (reducing its profile and signature, with a characteristic black finish), and an optional polymer upgrade that replaced the standard combat armor alloy with advanced combat polymers. The standard combat armor was designed to accept numerous modifications, allowing for it to be tailored for specific purposes. The entire assembly was intended for units engaged in heavy fighting on the most contested fronts. Limbs incorporate the axillary and thigh protectors of the lighter model, with the addition of plating on forearms, knees, and lower legs. A groin protector is included by default. The torso assembly is enhanced with the inclusion of soft body armor from ballistic fiber, overlaid with enlarged hard armor plates providing superior coverage and protection. The superior, sturdy combat armor variant was the baseline model. A new combat helmet model was designed for all three variants, incorporating ear protection and a pair of attachment points for additional equipment, such as lamps (commonly found on surviving units) and targeting or imaging equipment. The modular suit of armor was manufactured from alloys that offer balanced protection from conventional firearms and energy weapons and provide load-bearing functionality in combat. The new combat armor was manufactured in three different variants, for wearing with the standard armed services uniform: Light, medium (sturdy), and heavy. The most important of these was the general purpose combat armor issued to military units nationwide, with the first Army model relegated to domestic and garrison duties.

The success of the Army combat armor paved the way for superior models.

Custom combat armor fallout 4