Level 4 (NIJ III / VPAM 5)
Submachine gun and high-powered handgun protection
Protection Level Overview
Level 4 provides enhanced protection against submachine guns and high-velocity handgun rounds. This level bridges the gap between handgun and rifle protection, offering defense against automatic weapons commonly used by organized criminal groups.
Level 4 armoring represents an intermediate protection level specifically engineered to defeat high-velocity handgun rounds and submachine gun fire. This level is particularly relevant in regions where organized crime groups commonly employ automatic weapons like the UZI, MP5, or similar platforms.
The key advancement at Level 4 is the use of thicker, hardened ballistic steel panels (4-5mm) combined with aramid fiber backing to absorb the increased energy of high-velocity and multiple rapid-fire impacts. The steel utilized at this level features enhanced hardness ratings (500+ Brinell) to prevent penetration from fast-moving projectiles.
Level 4 ballistic glass incorporates additional polycarbonate layers and may include spall-liner technology to contain fragments. Glass thickness typically ranges from 30-35mm. This construction withstands sustained automatic fire without compromising the occupant compartment.
The overlap system at Level 4 receives particular attention, as automatic weapons can "walk" impacts across a panel. Our engineering ensures continuous protection across all seams and joints, with no weak points even under rapid sequential impacts.
Weight addition at Level 4 (300-450 kg) begins to require suspension and brake upgrades on most vehicles. We typically install heavy-duty suspension components and upgrade brake rotors and pads to maintain safe handling and stopping distances.
Protected Against
Real-World Applications
Materials & Technology
Testing & Certification
Level 4 components undergo burst-fire testing in addition to single-round protocols. Glass is tested with multiple rounds in rapid succession to simulate automatic weapon attack. All overlap zones receive special attention during testing to verify continuous protection.
How It Compares
Level 4 is the minimum recommended for clients facing organized crime threats. While it provides excellent protection against submachine guns, it will not stop standard rifle ammunition. For rifle protection, Level 5 or higher is required.
Specifications
| Weight Added | 300-450 kg |
| Glass Thickness | 30-35mm |
| Steel Thickness | 4-5mm |
| Floor Protection | Kevlar + steel composite |
| Turnaround Time | 10-12 weeks |
| Price Range | $50,000 - $80,000+ |
Ideal For
Security professionals and personal protection officers, executives in high-crime regions, individuals under specific threat from organized groups, politicians and public figures, jewelry transport operations, pharmaceutical representatives, anyone operating in areas where submachine guns are prevalent.
Interested in Level 4?
Our experts can help you determine if this protection level is right for your needs.