JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. -- Female defenders of the 87th Security Forces Squadron received the first batch of Aspetto ‘Mach-V’ body armor, in early May 2021. The female body armor features increased mobility, load carriage support, and comfort while still maintaining coverage of vital organs for female defenders.
“Initiatives like this helps us feel more like a community,” said Senior Airman Deanna Mayhew, 87th SFS assistant vehicle NCO. “Especially since our career field is male dominant, it feels like something’s being done to help us and that our issues are being heard.”
The new armor is one of the Air Force Chief of Staff’s initiatives to revitalize squadrons and was created by the Female Fitment Program Office. Their mission is to identify problems and find solutions for gear and uniform items to better equip female Airmen.
“It’s important for the Air Force to pursue initiatives like this so that we can do our job efficiently,” said Senior Airman Rosealine McDonald, 87th SFS patrolman. “We’re just going to be collateral if we can’t perform our jobs the same way as males can. The body armor definitely feels a bit more snug to the body and feels more secure - I definitely feel more secure.”
The armor is specially designed to conform to the female torso and provide better coverage for female Airmen. The system has an adjustable back corset that tightens to fit, as well as specially designed plate placement for increased mobility and decreased overall weight.
“The body armor is going to reduce injuries as well,” said Mayhew. “Since it’s made for us, it won’t be as straining on the back. Just like the new hair regulations, this helps us medically.”
These initiatives to provide optimized gear are steps towards inclusivity for female Airmen.
“I feel more comfortable in my job,” said McDonald. “I feel welcomed and this makes me want to do better. It’s like the Air Force is telling us, ‘we accept you.’”
“I think this is a big step,” said Mayhew. “All of these changes are definitely a step in the right direction.”