Interior Ministry to Buy Ballistic Vests and Plate Carriers for Police

Bratislava, 30 October (TASR) – The Interior Ministry plans to purchase ballistic vests and ballistic panel carriers for police officers, continuing the modernisation of police equipment, ministry's spokesperson Matej Neumann told TASR on Thursday. According to Neumann, the ministry expects a framework agreement with an estimated value of €26 million, excluding VAT. “We are closing the inherited modernisation gap and gradually renewing and supplementing police equipment and armament, with an emphasis on technical quality. Following the acquisition of winter jackets, trousers, T-shirts, tactical belts and footwear, ballistic vests and protectors are another essential part of the gear. They are the element that protects the lives and health of police officers in the field,” said Interior Minister Matus Sutaj Estok (Voice–SD). Each police officer should, according to the ministry, have their own assigned equipment, with a reserve available in case of damage or destruction during an operation. Bulletproof vests and carriers are among the most important elements of personal protection for the police. As Neumann added, the estimated purchase value results from preparatory market consultations. “Over four years, this will allow for the delivery of nearly 15,000 ballistic vests and 12,000 ballistic panel carriers with front and back parts, as well as other necessary accessories,” he explained. mf