As part of NFM Group, Equipnor has exclusive access to some of the most advanced protective equipment available today. Among these innovations, the GARM™ Ballistic Underwear (BALUW) stands out as a new generation of operational gear, representing a breakthrough in close-to-body ballistic protection.
Designed and developed by NFM’s German subsidiary, Hexonia GmbH, BALUW offers a unique combination of comfort, flame resistance, and fragment protection—engineered for the modern battlefield.
How BALUW is different from traditional ballistic underwear
Unlike traditional ballistic underwear, BALUW is developed as an integrated component of the combat uniform, eliminating the need for additional functional base layers. What sets it apart the most is the comfortable wear and cooling effect against the skin.
Most notably, it offers exceptional comfort, featuring a soft, cooling sensation against the skin. The system comprises multiple garments, including t-shirts, boxers, long underwear, and balaclavas, developed from a proprietary blend of technical silk, polyamide, elastane, and polypropylene.
This advanced material mix provides:
- High strength and durability
- A natural cooling effect
- Effective moisture-wicking properties
- Elastic memory for shape retention
The fabric construction efficiently transports perspiration to outer layers, helping reduce heat stress—especially critical in hot climates and high-intensity operations.
Seamless Construction for Blast Resilience
A key innovation in BALUW is its seamless construction in sensitive areas. As seams are typically the weakest point in any protective system, minimising them increases both wearer comfort and blast resistance, while ensuring uniform ballistic coverage.
Additional design features:
- 3D knitting zones to improve flexibility and ventilation
- Flat seams in high-stress zones to prevent irritation
- Tight-fitting profile to eliminate air gaps between layers
This tight fit also optimises sweat transport and reduces the risk of secondary fragments penetrating under the system in the event of a blast.
Certified Ballistic and Flame Protection
BALUW is tested according to STANAG 2920, with a V50 > 200 m/s against 0.13 g RCC fragments. In addition, it provides reliable flame protection—the fabric will not melt or drip and withstands direct flame for at least three seconds without degrading, in accordance with DIN EN ISO 15025-A.
These protective properties make BALUW ideal for use with flame-retardant outer garments, such as the GARM™ Combat Clothing System, adding another layer of protection without compromising mobility.
Female Fit and Modular Design
Recognising the importance of tailored protection, the BALUW range includes female-specific versions to ensure fit, comfort, and performance across all body types. With modular options in sleeve and leg lengths, as well as optional colours, BALUW adapts to different operational and uniform requirements.
Faktaboks:
- Seamless construction
- Made with 88% technical silk
- Proven protection against secondary blast injuries
- Shields against 0.13 g (2.0 grain) fragments, RCC > 200 m/s
- Hydrophilic – absorbs and transports moisture
- Cool and comfortable against the skin
- Compatible with other protective layers, including flame-retardant gear
FR Protection:
– Does not melt or drip
– Flame-retardant for a minimum of three seconds
Key Benefits:
GARM™ Ballistic Underwear offers seamless protection, thermal comfort, and certified ballistic performance. It’s a mission-ready solution for modern soldiers who demand maximum protection without compromising comfort.
