VEHICLE ARMOR Meaning and
Definition
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Vehicle armor is a specialized protective system designed to shield vehicles from various forms of external threats and potentially damaging elements. It is a form of defensive technology employed primarily in military vehicles, although it can also be used in certain law enforcement and civilian applications. The primary purpose of vehicle armor is to enhance the survivability of the occupants and increase the resilience of the vehicle against hostile actions, such as ballistic attacks, explosions, or other forms of physical impact.
Typically composed of layered materials with varying properties, vehicle armor is designed to absorb and dissipate the energy generated from projectiles or explosions, thereby minimizing their effect on the vehicle structure and occupants. It often includes materials such as steel, ceramics, composites, or other high-strength materials that offer high levels of resistance to penetration, fragmentation, and shockwaves. The specific composition and configuration of the armor depend on the level of protection required, the vehicle type, and the anticipated threats.
Vehicle armor can be categorized into various levels or classes based on their ability to withstand different types of attacks. These levels often adhere to internationally recognized standards, such as the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) standards for civilian vehicles or the STANAG (Standardization Agreement) protocols for military vehicles.
In conclusion, vehicle armor is a protective system used to fortify vehicles against external threats. Its purpose is to enhance the safety and survivability of the vehicle and its occupants by reducing the impact of ballistic attacks, explosions, and other damaging elements.
Etymology of VEHICLE ARMOR
The word "vehicle" originates from the Latin word "vehiculum", which means a means of conveyance or a vehicle. It later made its way into Middle English as "vechele" and evolved to its present form.
The term "armor" is derived from the Old French word "armure" or "armoire", which means "arms" or "equipment for war". It can be traced back to the Latin word "armatura" meaning "armament" or "equipment", which is derived from the word "arma" meaning "arms" or "weapons".
Therefore, the etymology of the term "vehicle armor" can be understood as the combination of the Latin word "vehiculum" and the Old French word "armure", referring to the protective equipment specifically designed for vehicles, especially for military purposes.
