Alpharetta – October 12, 2026 -- Arclin has launched Kevlar® EXOTM XP E480, a soft armor material that it says enables body armor up to 25% lighter while meeting NIJ Level IIIA/HG2 protection requirements.
Arclin claims up to 40% greater comfort versus its XP K520 material
The new product combines Kevlar® XP technology, which Arclin describes as proven in ballistic and trauma-reduction performance, with Kevlar® EXOTM fiber. Joe Hovanec, Arclin's Vice President of Kevlar® EXOTM, said manufacturers can achieve armor "up to 25% lighter" with up to 40% greater comfort, helping reduce wearer fatigue. Arclin benchmarks the comfort figure against XP K520 at NIJ Level IIIA/HG2.
Fiber architecture targets lower layer counts and stitching requirements
Arclin says the material combines high stopping power, bullet-flattening performance and durability in a lighter construction. Its fiber architecture reduces layer counts and stitching requirements, which the company says allows more streamlined armor designs. Arclin adds that this could lower manufacturing complexity and labor costs for armor makers, though it gave no cost figures.
Kevlar EXO XP E480 is open for customer evaluation worldwide
The material is available for evaluation to customers worldwide. Arclin did not disclose pricing, commercial availability dates or customer commitments.