ADEX 2025 – Hessed Korea unveils X Frame, South Korea’s adaptive body armour
The X Frame protective vest, unveiled by Hessed Korea during the Seoul ADEX 2025 exhibition, represents a major step forward in personal ballistic protection. Designed to achieve a precise balance between agility, durability, and comfort, it exemplifies South Korea’s determination to position itself among the world’s leading defence technology developers
A Product of Tactical Innovation
The vest was developed through cooperation between Hessed Korea and the American firm TYR Tactical. Leading technology from TYR Tactical contributed to the design, while follow-up development by HESSED in Korea resulted in ergonomic load distribution and high-performance materials. The X Frame takes its name from the internal polymer-composite frame, which is shaped into a structural “X.” This stabilizes the vest during movement and evenly spreads weight across the torso. Finally, the modular architecture allows soldiers to tailor the vest to specific mission requirements.
Technical Specifications
The X Frame with the armour plate carrier is constructed from ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) combined with multi-layered aramid fibres, offering Level IIIA protection; when the hard plate is inserted, it is capable of stopping 7.62 mm armour‑piercing rounds up to Level IV.
Weighing under 3.5 kg without plates, it ranks among the lightest vests in its class. Quick‑release reinforced polymer side buckles ensure fast donning and removal, while the outer shell, made of CORDURA 500 denier fabric, is resistant to moisture, abrasion, and heat.
The vest’s three‑dimensional air‑channel lining enhances ventilation, preventing overheating during prolonged operations. Full MOLLE and QR compatibility allows integration of pouches for magazines, medical kits, and radios. A dedicated female‑fit version provides anatomical comfort for mixed‑gender units.
Production and International Deployment
Manufactured at Hessed Korea’s main facility in Hanam‑si, Gyeonggi‑do, the X Frame forms part of South Korea’s broader soldier‑modernisation programme overseen by the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA).
Following comprehensive testing and formal certification, the vest was inducted into service with the Republic of Korea Army (ROKA) and subsequently underwent operational evaluations by both Philippine commando units and Polish Special Forces. According to reports, initial export contracts were secured with the Indonesian Marine Corps, who cited the vest’s lightweight construction and high adaptability as key factors in their procurement decision.
A symbol of South Korea’s defence ambition
Unveiled alongside advanced ground‑equipment systems at ADEX 2025, the X Frame encapsulates South Korea’s defence export ambitions, combining domestic engineering with strategic international partnerships.
Hessed Korea’s approach demonstrates the country’s growing ability to meet NATO standards and appeal to global buyers seeking reliable, high‑performance personal protection.
In short, the X Frame is more than a ballistic vest—it is a comprehensive survival platform, designed for the realities of twenty‑first‑century combat and a showcase of South Korea’s technological ascent in the global defence industry.
Photos by J. Roukoz
