BAR ARMOR SYSTEM FOR PROTECTING AGAINST ROCKET-PROPELLED GRENADES

A bar armor system is provided for reducing damage caused by RPGs launched towards a vehicle. The bar armor system includes at least one bar array, comprised of lateral bars and vertical bars, wherein the lateral bars are set in predetermined positions so as to reduce the possibility of shaped charges being directed towards the target vehicle. Tubular shaft retainers are provided to be positioned in annular openings in the vertical bars. The lateral bars can be of a round or hexagonal cross-section, and when hexagonal lateral bars are employed, the flat surfaces of the cross-section are positioned horizontally by the tubular shaft retainers so as to minimize the area presented to an oncoming RPG, particularly when the RPG strikes at a non-normal incidence. Push washers can be employed at the outside surfaces of the vertical bars so as to hold them in position. A mounting system is provided that is capable of positioning the bar armor system at close distances to the vehicle so that the overall size and weight of the vehicle is not unduly increased by the bar armor system. The mounts can include rotary latches to provide easy installation and removal. The system can also be of an electrically-conductive unified composition so that efficient electrostatic coating techniques can be used to cover the system. The system can also be provided in the form of kits for ready installation and for more economical repair.