Multi-terrain pattern (MTP) tier three pelvic protection shorts, 2011 (c)

The tier three ballistic shorts, in service since 2011, have been issued to soldiers deployed on operations in Afghanistan (2001- ). They are designed to help mitigate the effects of Improvised Explosive Device (IED) blasts. They are only issued to troops whose roles demand greater levels of protection on patrol, such as those operating metal detectors searching for IEDs. The pelvic protection system aims to balance protection with the necessary comfort and manoeuvrability for troops to undertake operations, enabling them to wear one or more of the protective layers depending on the task.