DFNDR Armor Level III++ side plates deliver rifle-rated ballistic protection for the flanks, sold as a matched set of two plates. Each plate ships in an ergonomic single curve, independently tested to the NIJ 0101.04 protocol at NIJ-certified ballistic laboratories in a stand-alone configuration. Three model variants cover the range — E-IIIPSALW-S, E-IIIPSA-C-S, and E-IIIPPSA04-S — all sharing the same threat-level rating and the same Trauma Mitigation Base. Made in the USA, the set attaches to DFNDR's QRC cummerbund or any MOLLE-capable cummerbund via compatible side plate pouches.

Who this is for

• DFNDR torso-armor users who want to close the side-exposure gap on their existing QRC or LPC plate carrier setup.
• Professionals and civilians carrying rifle-rated front and back plates who require equivalent side protection at the lowest practical carry weight.
• MOLLE-carrier owners who want a drop-in side-plate upgrade without replacing their existing cummerbund or carrier.

Compatibility with parent armor

These side plates thread directly onto DFNDR's QRC (Quick Release Carrier) and SPC (Side Plate Carrier) via the dedicated side plate pouches, which are sold separately. The single-curve ergonomic geometry seats flush against the torso on any MOLLE-capable cummerbund, so the set works beyond the DFNDR ecosystem. The plates are sized and curved to complement DFNDR's standard torso plates; contact us to confirm fitment with a specific third-party carrier before ordering.

Ballistic performance and function

All three model variants carry a Level III++ threat rating — a vendor-specific designation indicating performance above NIJ 0101.06 Level III. Every threat in the rated profile is tested at muzzle velocity. Testing takes place in a stand-alone configuration at NIJ-certified ballistic laboratories under the NIJ 0101.04 protocol. The integrated Trauma Mitigation Base is built into each plate to minimize impact energy transfer, reducing the blunt-force trauma that a stopped projectile delivers to the wearer.

All specified threats are documented in the manufacturer's threat profile table. Sold as a set of two plates — one for each side — so the listed price covers both.

Specifications

Frequently asked questions

What carriers and cummerbunds does this side plate set work with?

These plates are designed for DFNDR's QRC and SPC systems and mount via the matching side plate pouches (sold separately). The single-curve geometry also seats correctly on any MOLLE-capable cummerbund that accepts standard side plates. Contact us if you want to confirm fitment with a specific third-party carrier before you order.

What does Level III++ mean and how was it tested?

Level III++ is a Special Threat Rated designation indicating protection above the standard NIJ 0101.06 Level III threshold. All specified threats are tested at muzzle velocity at NIJ-certified ballistic laboratories under the NIJ 0101.04 protocol in a stand-alone configuration. The full threat profile — listing every rated round — is available on the product page threat profile table.

Is this NIJ Certified or independently tested?

These plates are independently tested at NIJ-certified ballistic laboratories to the NIJ 0101.04 protocol in a stand-alone configuration. The Level III++ designation is a Special Threat Rated classification and is not a standard NIJ Compliant Products List (CPL) listing level; it reflects testing at NIJ-accredited labs against a defined threat profile that exceeds the standard Level III parameters.

Does this set include side plate pouches?

No. The set includes the two side plates only. Side plate pouches that mount to DFNDR's QRC or a MOLLE cummerbund are available separately.

How many plates come in one purchase?

One purchase includes a set of two plates — one for each side of the torso. You do not need to buy a separate left and right unit.

Can these side plates be shipped to my state?

These plates cannot be shipped to New York or Connecticut due to state body armor restrictions. Under 18 U.S.C. § 931, anyone with a federal felony conviction for a crime of violence is prohibited from purchasing or possessing body armor. Contact us if you have questions about your state before placing an order.