#United States #Integris Composites #National Harbor #Active Shooter #Ballistic Shield

Integris Composites Introduces Campus Ballistic Shield

Integris Composites, a recognized leader in armor protection for various sectors including military and law enforcement, made headlines recently with the launch of its innovative Campus Response Shield. This ballistic shield is specifically tailored for use in educational institutions and was showcased at the National Tactical Officers Association (NTOA) annual conference in National Harbor, Maryland. With rising concerns surrounding school shootings, this development comes as a timely contribution to campus safety measures.

Purpose of the Campus Response Shield

The Campus Response Shield is a Level III+ rated ballistic shield designed for quick accessibility during active shooter situations. This shield allows law enforcement personnel to safeguard students and staff by providing immediate protection in critical moments. Kim McNeely, Integris's Director of Business Development, emphasized that this is the first tactical shield developed specifically with U.S. agencies in mind, highlighting its importance in responding to emergencies.

The launch is especially relevant given the new regulations in Texas, mandating that every public and open-charter school must have at least one ballistic shield on campus, as part of the Uvalde Strong Act. This act, which took effect on September 1, aims to bolster school safety measures following the tragic shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, in 2022.

Features and Benefits of the Shield

The Campus Response Shield weighs just ten pounds, making it the lightest among three newly introduced ballistic shields. Alongside it, Integris also unveiled the 13-pound Level III Fuse Shield and the 20.9-pound Magnetic Shield. These products are engineered to meet the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) standards, ensuring they are effective against several types of ammunition commonly used in assaults.

The shield's design prioritizes mobility, allowing first responders to navigate through cramped or chaotic environments efficiently. Tristan Cordova, another key figure at Integris, described the Campus Response Shield as compact and optimized for various menacing threats, cementing its value as a practical tool for law enforcement.

Industry Impact and Engagement with Law Enforcement

Integris Composites doesn't limit its focus to just product development; it actively collaborates with various law enforcement agencies, SWAT teams, and public interest organizations. Their goal is to foster innovation in safety measures while addressing the pressing issue of school violence. McNeely stated, “We believe our contribution to situational armor is vital for safeguarding innocent lives.”

Beyond enhancing school security, the launch signifies a shift in strategy as Integris aims to expand its presence in the law enforcement sector. By developing products based on direct feedback from operators in the field, Integris is positioning itself as a go-to provider for advanced protective solutions.

A Legacy of Protection

Integris Composites has a rich history, spanning three decades, of delivering armor solutions to military and law enforcement sectors. Formerly known as TenCate Advanced Armor, their rebranding in 2023 reflects their commitment to evolving safety solutions. Their reputation has gained traction due to their high-quality standards and cutting-edge technology in the realm of composite armor.

The company is recognized as a Tier One supplier to defense contractors and aerospace Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), affirming its status in the industry. Recently, Integris was chosen to supply armor systems for the U.S. Army’s Future Long-Range Assault Aircraft helicopter program, showcasing its capabilities and reliability.

Conclusion

The introduction of the Campus Response Shield represents a crucial advancement in protective equipment for schools amid growing safety concerns. By prioritizing the needs of first responders and adapting to evolving threats, Integris Composites is once again demonstrating its commitment to protective solutions. As educational institutions navigate these challenges, the Campus Response Shield may very well become a cornerstone of school safety initiatives across the nation.