LITTLE ROCK AIR FORCE BASE, Ark. — Female Airmen from the 19th Security Forces Squadron recently received the new issue of female body armor, after years of wearing the standard tactical vest originally designed for a male body frame.
The new, better-fitting armor was designed to better protect female Airmen during combat and contingency operations.
“This armor is built for us,” said Staff Sgt. Jazmine Pierce, 19th SFS base defense operations center controller. “For years I’ve worn a vest built for a flat chest, causing a lot of pain and discomfort. I could tell the moment I put the new vest on it was curved to fit me and was immediately more comfortable. I can now move from side-to-side and not get blocked by bulk … this vest has improved my mission capability significantly.”
The Aspetto “Mach V” system is designed to be lighter weight, offer a better fit, and allow for improved mobility and protection of the vital organs.
The new body armor variant has a curved chest plate, a shorter torso size and an adjustable back corset that tightens to fit the wearer. The adjustable corset helps the new armor avoid the old version’s problem of being ‘one size fits all,’ closing in gaps and preventing exposure to risk.
The procurement of uniform items and gear optimized for female Airmen is an Air Force Chief of Staff initiative.
Staff Sgt. Nykiah Mitchell, 19th SFS base defense operations center controller, emphasized the significance of having gear that is tailored to properly fit a woman’s body.
“I believe this change is very important and long overdue — it’s nice to see the Air Force tackle female issues within the force,” Mitchell said. “With the rollout of the female vest, the Air Force is allowing its female security forces members to become more inclusive with their male counterparts.”
Moreover, female defenders said they are looking forward to how these new vests will positively impact their ability to execute their mission and what this means for women in the Air Force.
“This new vest is pushing security forces in a better direction for woman,” said Senior Airman Rebecca Mauch, 19th SFS base defense operations center controller. “I believe these new vests will make women on shift everyday feel more included and validated because they know their voices are being heard.”
The new body armor is slated for distribution to all female security forces members on the installation.
By Airman 1st Class Mariam K. Springs, 19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs / Published March 17, 2021
