The SAPI plates (also found in the IOTV) provide ballistic protection, as does the soft armor behind the plates. There is also the option to attach soft armor behind ESBI plates (Enhanced Side Ballistic Inserts). As an alternative to the side plate pouch, the SPCS now offers a cummerbund. When no side armor or MOLLE webbing is required, a set of straps may be substituted for the side plate pouch and cummerbund. Optional mounting plates are available for the standard IOTV groin protector and lower back protector.
A variety of SPCS sizes are available, and friction adapters on the cummerbund and the shoulder straps can be used to adjust the fit. On the front and back pieces, as well as in the cummerbund/side plate carrier vest, you will find Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment (MOLLE) webbing that can be used to mount various pouches and equipment. During an emergency, the vest can be quickly undone by pulling the quick release cable attached to its front collar. It was originally issued in the Universal Camouflage Pattern, which was later replaced with MultiCam. The weight of a medium SPCS with ESAPI and ESBI plates is approximately 22 pounds.
During the Syrian conflict, an American soldier wears the Soldier Plate Carrier Vest Gen II. With a completely new quick release system based on the Generation III IOTV, the Generation II SPCS is a significantly improved version of the SPCS. A steel cable connects 4 buckles (2 for the shoulder straps and 2 for each cummerbund) to the quick release handle. As a result, plate carrier vests can be donned and disassembled more quickly and can be reassembled more easily. Additionally, it comes with a cummerbund that is more easily adjustable than previous models and supports side plates.
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