Abstract: The present invention relates to a body armor system designed to maximize protection, optimize mobility and reduce fatigue. More particularly, the system consists of a set of external, highly ergonomic hard armor plates in both ballistic and non-ballistic (riot) configurations, some of which utilize articulating, and/or interleaving segments, in combination with ballistic fabrics and or highly contoured pressed foam padding and harness systems that is flexible and lighter but still provides maximum protection. According to a preferred embodiment, an articulating plate assembly is formed by using plate segments that have at least two (2) step variation in the thickness of each plate along the adjoining seam line between each plate segment so as to facilitate an interleaving, articulating plate system that aids in defeating projectiles that may strike along the seam of adjoining plate segments.