Not long ago, the US army used to make use of the Outer Tactical vest (OTV) as an interceptor body armor. However, after the development of the Improved Outer Tactical Vest (IOTV), the force has opted for the more enhanced version for more protective features and compatibility options.

The IOTV can be used with the Enhanced Side Ballistic Inserts (ESBI), Deltoid and Auxiliary Protector System (DAPS) components and the Enhanced Small Arms Protective Insert (ESAPI). It is also compatible with the OTV groin protector. Unlike the OTV, the IOTV has an Army Combat Shirt that functions as a flame-resistant shirt that can be used with the vest.

For several years, the army had always considered the OTV design as insufficient as it was not able to meet up with the on-field demands of the soldiers and was also lacking in some architectural areas. The IOTV was designed specifically to remedy all of these deficiencies.

First used in 2007, the IOTV has remained the standard body armor design for ground combat units. The IOTV doesn’t only offer more ballistic protection and wide-body coverage than its predecessor, it is also of relatively lighter weight. Unlike the medium size OTV Vest, an IOTV vest of similar size would weigh approximately around 3.6 pounds.

When fully kitted up with ballistic plates on both the front and the back, 2 plates at both sides, a collar, a groin protector as well as a soft armor panel insert, the medium IOTV vest is still most likely to weigh around 30 pounds. The IOTV also has ballistic inserts by the side to protect the underarms and the lower part of the torso. This is unlike any other plate carrier or body armor. More interestingly, the armor is as easy to put on as it is as easy to put off.

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