Abstract: A composite material plate comprising a plurality of hard ceramic stubs with silicon rich metal inclusions in a metal-ceramic, heterogeneous poly-phase matrix and a method of fabrication thereof comprising the steps of fabricating green ceramic stubs; densifying; optionally wrapping carbon fibers therearound and arranging the green ceramic stubs into a closely packed array with organic binder, pyrrolizing and Impregnating a silicon based metal matrix by reactive sintering.

Abstract: A ceramic armoring is provided, comprising a first ceramic layer which has a plurality of segments that are functionally separated by crack stoppers, wherein the crack stoppers serve to prevent cracks propagating from one segment to another segment, at least one second ceramic layer which has a plurality of segments that are functionally separated by crack stoppers, and at least one bonding layer by means of which the first ceramic layer and the second ceramic layer are joined together, wherein the segments of the first ceramic layer are offset with respect to the segments of the second ceramic layer.

Abstract: Disclosed is a passive armor assembly for protecting a body disposed behind it from an impact of a long rod penetrator (hereinafter LRP). The armor assembly includes an armor surface that is capable of exerting asymmetric forces on the oncoming LRP and an armor member being disposed behind the armor surface. The armor member is made of a high compression strength, low density, brittle material, and its thickness along the direction of the impact exceeds the length of the LRP. Preferably, the thickness is at least 1.5 the length of the LRP. In a preferred embodiment the armor member is made of a material exhibiting the combination of fracture toughness smaller than 3 MPam1/2, density of less than 2 g/cc, and compression strength of from 102 to 103 MPa.

Abstract: An armored cab for a vehicle is provided, the cab including multiple layers of armoring material, and having a shape to assist in the deflection of radar and the various types of ordinance which may be fired or exploded against the armored cab.