The Interceptor Body Armor (IBA) was designed to replace the Personnel Armor System Ground Troops (PASGT) vest and the Interim Small Arms Protective Overvest (ISAPO).

The Deltoid Axillary Protector (DAP) (or Deltoid Axillary Protection System, DAPS) was developed in response to the improvised explosive device (IED) threats that soldiers face in Iraq. Unlike conventional threats, which usually come from the front, back, or above, IEDs throw shrapnel and spall at soldiers from below and from the sides. DAP enables soldiers to cover shoulder and upper arm areas as well as the armpit and underarm. The original Interceptor body armor design is open around the arms to allow air to circulate.

The Army began fielding the Improved Outer Tactical Vest (IOTV) in the fourth quarter of 2007. The IOTV is a side-opening vest that provides a greater area of coverage than the Outer Tactical Vest (OTV) and weighs three pounds less.

The Outer Tactical Vest (OTV) provides protection from conventional fragmenting munitions and multiple hits from 9mm handgun rounds.

The Small Arms Protective Inserts (SAPI) upgrade the OTV to provide additional protection from rifle-fired threats.

The IOTV deltoid protector has the same basic design as the deltoid protector for the deltoid axillary protection system attached to the outer tactical vest.

The first delivery of the new Gen II Improved Outer Tactical Vest (IOTV) in Operation Enduring Freedom Camouflage Pattern (OCP) began on 16 July 2010.

Incremental enhancements to the Improved Outer Tactical Vest (IOTV) transitioned to production in FY12. Design enhancements included a more robust quick-release technology for improved functionality. Additionally the IOTV Gen III included other design features to improve comfort, mobility and functionality, especially to female and small statured Soldiers.

The IOTV groin protector has the same basic design as the OTV groin protector.

The IOTV lower back protector provides additional protection for the lower spine and pelvis. The lower back protector attaches to the inside of the back carrier using two nylon straps and snap fasteners.

The IOTV yoke and collar assembly provides additional ballistic protection to the neck and shoulders.

The IOTV Gen II deltoid protector has the same basic design as the Gen I deltoid protector.

The IOTV Gen II groin protector has the same basic design as the Gen I groin protector.

The IOTV Gen II lower back protector is a simplified version of the Gen I lower back protector. It has neither PALS webbing nor a utility channel, and the interior fabric is woven nylon similar to the exterior fabric.

The IOTV Gen II yoke and collar assembly was initially the same as the Gen I yoke and collar assembly except that ballistic inserts are not removable.

The IOTV Gen III deltoid protector has the same basic design as the Gen II deltoid protector.

The IOTV Gen III groin protector is worn on the ACU trouser, and provides additional protection to the femoral arteries and pelvis. It is a new design for the IOTV Gen III and is attached to the front carrier for storage only. The attachment straps are tucked into the groin protector carrier when not attached to the front carrier.

The IOTV Gen III lower back protector has the same basic design as the Gen II lower back protector.

The IOTV Gen III yoke/collar assembly has the same basic design as the redesigned Gen II yoke/collar assembly.

The OTV groin protector provides additional protection for the femoral arteries and pelvis. The groin protector attaches to the inside of the front carrier using two nylon straps and snap fasteners.

The OTV throat protector provides additional ballistic protection to the throat.

The OTV yoke/collar assembly provides additional ballistic protection to the back of the neck and shoulders.

The Enhanced Small Arms Protective Insert (ESAPI) when placed in the Outer Tactical Vest pocket of the multiple threat/Interceptor body armor will provide ballistic protection from specific 5.56 mm and 7.62 mm ball and AP rounds.

The Enhanced Side Ballistic Insert (ESBI) plates provide additional coverage as they protect the wearer's sides between the Enhanced Small Arms Protective Insert (ESAPI) plates worn inside the front and rear, and provide the same ballistic protection as the ESAPI.

The Enhanced Side Small Arms Protective Insert (S-SAPI) and ballistic carriers provide increased side torso protection for Marines.

The X Small Arms Protective Inserts (XSAPI) have tan covers and provide greater protection than the ESAPI for the chest and back.

The X Side Ballistic Inserts (XSBI) have tan covers and provide greater side protection than the ESBI.