Virtus Soldier System (Source®)

The Virtus Soldier System (VSS) is an integrated personal protection and load-bearing system fielded by the British Army. It is designed as a modular and scalable architecture based on the soldier-as-a-system concept, aimed at increasing operational effectiveness by reducing physical, mechanical, and cognitive load on the soldier.

VIRTUS emphasizes improved mobility, ergonomics, protection, and mission-specific adaptability. Individual system components can be configured and adjusted according to operational requirements, environmental conditions, and threat levels.

Main Components of the Virtus System

Virtus Scalable Tactical Vest (STV)

A modular ballistic vest providing comparable or higher levels of protection than previous systems while reducing weight and improving ergonomic fit. The level of ballistic protection can be adjusted by adding or removing protective panels according to the current threat assessment.

Dynamic Weight Distribution (DWD)

A dynamic load distribution system designed to transfer weight between the shoulders, torso, and hips. The construction adapts to the soldier’s movement and helps reduce fatigue during prolonged wear.

Helmet

A lightweight protective helmet offering enhanced ballistic protection at reduced weight. It is compatible with accessories such as facial and mandible protection, night-vision systems, and counterweights mounted at the rear.

Load-Carriage System

A belt and harness configuration compatible with the MOLLE system, allowing flexible placement of pouches and mission equipment (e.g., ammunition, medical supplies, communication devices). The load-carriage system integrates with the Dynamic Weight Distribution elements.

Summary

The Virtus Soldier System represents a modern, modular, and integrated equipment platform of the British Army designed to enhance protection, mobility, and operational efficiency across a broad spectrum of conditions. By applying the soldier-as-a-system concept, it enables flexible adaptation of equipment to mission-specific requirements and load demands.