As troop levels have surged in Afghanistan, so has the number of attacks using Improvised Explosive Devices, or IEDs. USA Today reports that has the Pentagon rushing special armored underwear to protect troops who might encounter IEDs.

Armored vests help but they don’t offer any protection for below the waist. General David Petraeus says they have to use foot patrols to find insurgents and avoid civilian casualties. So, in addition to handheld, ground-penetrating radar systems, troops will soon be getting Kevlar bike shorts, titanium athletic cups, and heavy-weight chaps.

This story is part of Federal News Radio’s daily DoD Report. For more defense news, click here.

Copyright © 2024 Federal News Network. All rights reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.