Lastly, we have a MOLLE full protection plate carrier system, which is usually the heaviest with the most attention to comfort and longevity. These are the kind of plate carriers that soldiers would wear during normal patrols and enemy engagement. It is the standard issue of the US military.
They have a lot of distinct features, like emergency drag handles, which allow soldiers to help injured team members and drag them out of harm’s way. Moreover, they have quick release buckles, which allow the entire plate carrier system to be removed by pulling a single tab. This makes it much easier for combat medics to get to chest injuries and treat them. It also allows the heavy full protection plate carrier to be quickly ditched in maritime environments to prevent drowning.
These plate carriers have MOLLE webbing surrounding the carrier, to attach MOLLE pouches and other modular gear. This is essential to carry the amount of gear required for a soldier like mag pouches, radios, a map pocket, IFAK, and more. The MOLLE webbing is present both on the front and back, and on the cummerbund as well. This allows the individual to carry enough gear and create a plate carrier setup that perfectly fits the mission.
A full protection plate carrier is typically made to be as comfortable as possible due to the weight and duration of use. That means that they have padded and mesh interiors to ensure better air flow. They also have padded adjustable shoulder straps, and to increase comfort and convenience.
They also have the highest plate capacity, allowing you to add different levels of ballistic plates in the front and back plate pouches, along with soft armor or even hard side plates in the side soft armor pockets. They also are compatible with ballistic accessory panels such as bicep armor, groin protectors, and neck armor.