MEXAS stands for Modular Expandable Armor System, which is a ceramic composite armor designed and developed by IBD Deisenroth, a German firm. Introduced in 1994, MEXAS armor has been used worldwide for the protection of military vehicles. Normally overlaid on rolled homogeneous steel armor, MEXAS is composed of a splinter foil-like specialized Nylon, ceramics (Aluminum oxide), and a backing like kevlar. MEXAS also includes spall-liner.
There are three version of MEXAS armor: MEXAS-L (light), which offers protection against small-calibre rounds and can also be fitted on soft-skinned vehicles like MAN military trucks; MEXAS-M (medium) protects the vehicle against autocannon and RPGs with HEAT warheads. MEXAS-H is for use on heavy combat vehicles, such as main battle tanks. Norwegian M113s and German MAN trucks have been fitted with MEXAS prior their deployment in Kosovo Force. Some Canadian Leopard 1s have been upgraded with MEXAS. Other MEXAS users include Renault 6×6 VAB and German Fuchs APCs, the new German-Dutch GTK/MARV (also known as Boxer) and the Dingo all protected vehicle. Mexas is also utilized as add-on armor for Leopard 2 tanks.
MEXAS is a specially flexible and cost-efficient armor protection concept. The synergistically modular structured system makes it possible to adapt to the vehicle and the various hazard potentials in question. A major benefit is the low areal density brought about by the use of up-to-date materials. The protection can be separately transported and extended by special-purpose modules in the field, within an hour. Hence, the protection concept can be tuned to the specific operative goals for a variety of missions. Repairs can be done in the field to MEXAS in the event of damage.
