The ‘100 Ideas for Armenia’ project has hatched an innovative ballistic vest designed by military veterans Davit Davtyan, Raman Mnatsakanyan, and Artur Aghoyan. Their personal experience with bulletproof vests during the 2020 war spurred them to conceive a more effective and comfortable alternative.

Their design employs ultrafine nanoparticles to construct composite bulletproof vests, offering enhanced endurance and lighter weight. This innovative approach to protective gear promises a lifespan of over 10 years, doubling the current market standard of approximately 5 years. A full-coverage vest weighs only 2kg, significantly less than the typical 5kg vest.

Additionally, these vests are waterproof and meet international Level 4 standards, ensuring maximum protection for military and law enforcement personnel. Despite their advanced technology and superior performance, the vests are priced cost-effectively at up to $400, a fraction of the cost of existing vests that can run into a few thousand dollars.

The project has garnered positive feedback from international partners, marking a significant milestone in Armenia’s technological advancement. Furthermore, this initiative is part of a broader effort to establish a science-industry-university cooperative chain. This model, championed by team member Artur Aghoyan, aligns with global practices and has the potential to strengthen Armenia’s technological and scientific sectors.

Armenian veterans’ innovative approach to ballistic vests could revolutionize protective gear for security forces not only in Armenia but also around the world, setting a new benchmark for durability, comfort, and cost-effectiveness.