Modified variant PSZ-9BU-2, note lack of pouches. It is intended to be used with assorted webbings preferred by some armies.
The original PSZ-9 vest, developed in the late 80's was the first indigenous armor manufactured for the Soviet Army. Compared to it's Russian counterpart, the 6B5, it offered slightly better protection and had a better pouch arrangement, yet still suffered from being heavy and having poor protection of the sides. Despite being officially replaced in service, the PSZ-9 continues to be issued to Frontier Troops, and to a lesser extent the Ground Forces. It's replacement, while an overall better vest is far more expensive and heavy, and not suitable for long periods of wear.
The State Research Institute developed the PSZ-9BU as an independent venture in late 2009, using many of the techniques and materials of the more recent vests to produce an equally effective, yet lighter vest. It was approved as an issued piece of equipment and as a result can be found among regular forces in certain Military Districts due to the liquidation of the old vests, and supply depots placing orders on due to its cheaper cost.
It utilizes Titanium-Steel Alloy plates of 10mm thickness, giving NIJ 101.04 Level IV protection on the front and back over a total 53.5 sq.dm area. The front plate, which is of the same shape, can use the Tungsten Disulfide plate used in the PSZ-12M or Kora-10 vests. The vest is available in most patterns, and as default in khaki drab. It's total weight is 9.7kg with intended plates.
The vest's pouches hold 6 magazines, 4 grenades[not shown; on back], 2 signal rockets and assorted equipment in smaller pouches. A subvariant, known as the PSZ-9BU-2, lacks integrated pouches and has a slightly different neck guard.
Cost of vest+plates is $900, and orders larger then 5,000 are allowed a 15% discount. Should the customer want steel or Tungsten Disulfide plates, subtract $400 or add $900 to total cost per vest. Orders shall be made at the Red Star Heavy Industries storefront