Description
The Humanitarian Demining Ensemble (HDE) is designed as separate durable and modular pieces specifically for the humanitarian demining environment. The material composition of the HDE contains rigid ballistic materials, soft ballistics, and blast attenuating foam. The HDE components include a frontal upper body and groin protection apron, and frontal leg protection trousers. This two-piece design provides protection for the entire frontal area of the body, as well as some protection to the sides of the legs and torso. The rear is left open to reduce heat stress and weight. The modular design allows the operator to select additional ballistic inserts for fragmentation protection as well as arm, hand, and back components. Any combination of the armor can be worn to meet varying user requirements. The HDE is compatible with all demining helmets and visors.

Mannequins dressed in HDE exposed
to blast mine detonation.

• Armor limits air circulation around the covered portions of the body.
• Armor should be used only after full evaluation and appreciation of the threat. Specifically, as in the case of most lightweight body armor suitable for humanitarian demining, the HDE provides limited protection against fragmentation mines.

Status