Up Armouring Process: Testing

When a vehicle has gone through an up-armouring process, the prototype should be independently tested to ensure zero penetration for its blast and ballistic rating.

This independent and recognised test is carried out by Beschussamt Mellrichstadt. In Germany. The vehicle is then given a BRV certificate. VR7 to VR10, for example, are common certificated ratings for the threats today.

If the vehicle has only been constructed with tested material and not been put through the rigours of the test then it’s an unknown. Certification will be BR/FB.

Up Armouring Process: Armour Overlaps

One of the areas that can be easily compromised is the armouring overlap between doors and body when the vehicle is “sealed up”.

If the certificates are not available for the vehicle that we have to train with, then this is one place I look at closely to possibly identify whether it’s been effectively tested.

Compare the first two photos to the others.