An Israeli company that designs military-grade vests, uniforms and helmets has developed a bulletproof backpack for school students – and orders are pouring in from the US. Masada Armour created the bag, which costs upwards of £385, in response to the sheer number of shootings at American secondary schools in recent years. Now, the firm says it is having to scale up production to keep up with orders from worried parents ahead of the new term.

“In two months we have sold hundreds and are gearing up to increase production rates to 500 units per month,” chief executive Snir Koren told the AFP news agency. The backpack is designed for regular use but can withstand bullets from high-velocity rifles including AK-47s and M-16s. It weighs five kilograms, meaning it is only suitable for older teenagers, but the company is now looking into creating a range for younger pupils too. READ MORE

 


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