Exhibitor Press Releases

UK prison officers carry out a vital public service under increasingly complex and demanding conditions. At Defence Composites, we recognise the pressures correctional staff face and the responsibility of supporting them. We go beyond supplying equipment by listening, learning, and working closely with teams to develop solutions that meet their operational needs.

We currently provide certified stab and spike protective body armour tested and approved to the UK Home Office Body Armour Standard (BAS 2017), offering a level of protection aligned with the challenges many officers encounter daily. In addition, we are committed to working alongside the prison service to ensure any protective solution is practical and proportionate to the needs of staff on the ground.

Understanding the Challenges

The correctional environment presents unique challenges, and officers manage high-pressure situations, often with limited resources and within facilities facing systemic demands. Among the issues raised by officers and health and safety teams is the question of personal protective equipment and how it can be implemented practically, proportionately, and effectively. We understand that the question is not just about protection, but also comfort, dignity, team cohesion, and operational flow. These concerns are valid and shape how we design, test, and refine our solutions. While tactical teams are typically equipped with riot gear, many frontline officers continue to work without certified protective vests. We know there are longstanding concerns, from heat stress and comfort to perceptions of how body armour may appear in custodial settings.

In recent conversations with officers, union representatives, and operational managers, we have seen a clear shift: there is growing interest in practical, discreet, and wearable protection options that support, not disrupt, the way officers work.

“I have a great deal of respect for the prison service and the challenges officers face every day. For us, it is about listening, understanding the realities on the ground, and working behind the scenes to develop protection that is genuinely fit for purpose. We are always open to conversation, feedback, and exploring how we can support the service with practical solutions that truly make a difference.”

— Craig Mills, Managing Director, Defence Composites

Certified Protection by Defence Composites

At Defence Composites, we have developed a selection of certified protective vests suitable for custodial environments. Our solutions aim to support safety without compromising comfort or professionalism.

Certified to UK BAS 2017, all vests meet or exceed the latest UK Home Office Body Armour Standard:

• KR1 / KR1+SP1 / KR2+SP2 – Options available for stab, spike, and blunt trauma protection
• Covert & overt styles – Lightweight, breathable designs suitable for day-to-day wear
• Low-profile outer covers – Designed to integrate with prison uniforms and reduce visual impact
• Slash-resistant garments and gloves offering added protection 

A Time for Review, an Invitation for Collaboration

In May 2025, Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood announced a formal review into protective body armour across the UK prison service. Yesterday, 4th of June, Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood mandated protective body armour for prison officers working in high-risk areas—specifically Close Supervision Centres, Separation Centres, and Segregation Units within the high-security estate. This decision follows a violent attack on staff at HMP Frankland and is part of a broader review into officer safety. Further measures will be considered upon completing an independent review led by Jonathan Hall KC.

We welcome this initiative and support its focus on evidence-based decision-making. We also encourage the inclusion of frontline voices who understand first-hand what works and what is needed.

Built for the Frontline. Ready for Trial.

At Defence Composites, we do not believe in one-size-fits-all answers. Every service, facility, and role is different. We welcome trialling our protective vests in real operational settings with no obligation and complete transparency. We are inviting prison services to collaborate with us on fit-for-purpose solutions. Whether through wear trials, product feedback, or development partnerships, we are here to help deliver real-world solutions for correctional officers.

Want to Trial our Certified Prison Officer Vests?

We would be delighted to offer a free consultation, product samples for field evaluation, tailored to your operational requirements.