While essentially an updated PSZ-9 vest[An indigenous ballistic vest developed in the mid 90's, based on the Soviet 6B5 vest], the materials used are different and overall protection increased. As a reslut of it's requirements, the state research company created an integrated load carrying system, which compared to a standard LBV distributes the weight evenly. It's regarded by Soviet troops as the armored equivalent of the BVD[Boevaya Vykladka Desantnika - Airborne Fighting Load, a somewhat rare LBV used in Afghanistan and Chechnya]. It currently is issued to most SRChP forces, and has proven to be an effect piece of protective equipment.
The integrated carrying system allows the soldier to carry on his person:
Front:
-4 magazines in chest pouches, velcro allows storage of extended magazines
-4 grenades in specific pouches
-2 flares[or bayonet+flare] on sides of left and right most mag pouches
- assorted objects in chest pouch
Back:
-extra ammunition[spamcan], 24hour ration, PK box, medical kit, personal/squad hydration pack or radio in central pouch
-pouches for bandages or additional grenades
protection:
The vest utilizes 5mm plates constructed of Tungsten Disulfide, which offer greater protection then Boron Carbide and standard steel plates. The plates are inserted into a DYNEEMA sleeve, which not only acts as additional protection but provides an antisplinter/ricochet layer. Pistol calibers were unable to penetrate the vest, and it provides multiple hit protection from 7.62 AP due to the materials used. The PSZ-12M is certified Level 5 protection, or NIJ Level IV protection.
Pattern should be specified on order, otherwise vest will be in OD
Cost of vest+plates is $1200, and orders larger then 5,000 are allowed a 15% discount. Orders shall be made at the Red Star Heavy Industries storefront