At Tom Brown, Inc., we are proud to announce our strategic partnership with Energetic Test Labs, a premier NVLAP-accredited (Lab Code 600369-0) test laboratory based in Phoenix, Arizona. This collaboration leverages over 65 years of combined experience to enhance the performance and reliability of armored plates for the defense sector. Together, our goal is to improve armor technology and better protect the troops, first responders, and civilians who rely on body armor for safety.

A Partnership Built on Expertise

Scott Stover, a principal at Energetic Test Labs, brings more than 35 years of experience in consulting on specialty materials and composites. His deep industry knowledge complements Tom Brown, Inc.’s 30+ years of proficiency in material conversion. By uniting Energetic Test Labs advanced testing capabilities with Tom Brown, Inc.’s material expertise, we are uniquely positioned to support armor manufacturers in overcoming today’s challenges.

Navigating the NIJ Standard 0101.07

The National Institute of Justice (NIJ) has released its updated Standard 0101.07, replacing the 2008 Standard 0101.06. This new standard introduces extensive and nuanced changes that set higher benchmarks for ballistic resistance, providing a more comprehensive framework to address contemporary threats. Some of the key updates include:

1. Introduction of Rifle Protection Level RF2 The .07 standard introduces RF2, an intermediate level between Level III and Level IV. RF2 covers specific threats such as the 5.56x45mm M855 green tip and 7.62x39mm mild steel core rounds, addressing gaps in protection levels under the .06 standard.
2. Seventh Shot on Soft Armor A seventh shot has been added for handgun protection levels, placed at the center neckline and angled 30 degrees upward. Many soft armor packages that passed .06 standards will face new design challenges to contain this additional projectile.
3. Hard Armor Oblique Shots Hard armor plates must now stop rifle projectiles fired at a 30-degree angle. This applies to RF1, RF2, and RF3 models and requires additional considerations in plate design.
4. Soft Armor Conditioned V0 Velocity The reference velocity for conditioned and unconditioned soft armor is now identical, increasing the performance requirements for materials subjected to temperature, humidity, and mechanical wear.
5. Label Ink Durability Testing Appendix F introduces a new methodology for verifying label ink durability, including 2,000 passes per challenge fluid using an automated machine. Labels that passed .06 standards may require updates to comply.
6. Non-Planar (Female) Soft Armor Testing The .07 standard includes specialized testing procedures for non-planar (female) armor, using molds designed to accommodate different body types.
7. Increased Testing Quantities The number of armor samples required for certification has significantly increased, raising costs for manufacturers. However, submitting plates with maximum shots per threat can reduce the total number required.

Enhancing Manufacturer Support

With these updates, manufacturers face new hurdles but also opportunities to innovate. Our partnership ensures access to high-performance materials that meet or exceed the .07 standards. Energetic Test Labs state-of-the-art facilities and engineering expertise, combined with Tom Brown, Inc.’s reliable supply chain and material solutions, provide manufacturers with:

• Materials tailored to pass rigorous testing protocols.
• Guidance on compliance with new standards.
• Streamlined processes to reduce costs and certification time.
• Material selection based on weight vs. performance vs. cost
• Efficiency in supply chain management including lead times and MOQ
• Quick prototype sampling

Commitment to Protection

At the heart of this collaboration is our shared mission to advance armor technology and protect those who serve and safeguard our communities. The updated NIJ standards present an opportunity to improve the durability, effectiveness, and inclusivity of armor, and we are ready to help manufacturers rise to the occasion.

Together, Tom Brown, Inc. and Energetic Test Labs are driving innovation to ensure the highest level of protection for the modern battlefield and beyond. For more information on how we can help your organization meet NIJ .07 requirements, please contact us today.