Survivability and Assault Multi-Tool (SAM) System
A modular multi-tool system for rapid protection and mobility in the field
The Survivability and Assault Multi-Tool (SAM) system delivers a lightweight, rapidly deployable solution that combines protection, mobility, and versatility in a single platform. Each modular assembly features reinforced ballistic panels rated to stop standard NATO rifle rounds, paired with extendable and folding rungs that allow it to transform seamlessly between four mission-critical configurations: overhead cover, assault shield, ladder, and footbridge. The panels can be linked together to form larger protective structures or bridging spans, and they stack compactly for transport on combat vehicles.
Designed for rapid field conversion using simple locking pins, SAM enables soldiers to move from defense to offensive positions with minimal setup time, reducing the logistical burden of carrying multiple single-purpose tools while improving survivability across operations in any setting.
Modern combat and tactical operations expose soldiers to a wide range of threats, such as small arms fire and mortar blasts, that existing protection tools address only in isolation. Conventional shields, ladders, and bridging systems are often heavy, single-purpose, and slow to deploy, leaving dismounted forces vulnerable during both defensive and offensive maneuvers. Current solutions are difficult to transport or repurpose in rapidly changing environments.
Engineers developed SAM to overcome these limitations. SAM is a compact, reconfigurable platform that provides ballistic protection as a shield or overhead protection. The SAM units can also be joined together to provide scaling ladders or bridging capabilities in support of light force maneuver and urban operations.
Benefits:
- Multi-function capability: Four tools in one modular system
- Enhanced survivability: Ballistic-rated panels
- Tool-free deployment: Quick reconfiguration with locking pins
- Easy transport and storage: Portable, compact, stackable design
Applications:
- Ballistic protection
- Overhead cover or shielding
- Fighting position reinforcement
- Gap crossing
- Urban operations
Patents
- 11662181 (Search patent)