Threat Profile
Passenger exposure, operating region, route risk, visibility, and likely attack scenario should shape the protection level.
Protection Planning
Ballistic Protection Standards for Armored Vehicles
A clear buyer guide to common B4, B5, B6, B7, FB, and BR protection language used when specifying armored cars, SUVs, pickups, cash-in-transit vehicles, and personnel carriers.
Standards Overview
Understand the level before choosing the vehicle.
Protection terminology can vary by market. SchutzCarr uses the buyer discussion to align the required threat profile, standard reference, glass package, steel package, and vehicle category before build approval.
LevelCommon Buyer UseSpecification NotesTypical Vehicle Fit
B4 / FB4Discreet executive protection and lower-threat civilian mobility.Often considered when daily usability and lighter protection are the priority.Sedans, SUVs, executive vehicles
B5 / FB5Elevated personal security and commercial-route protection.Useful when buyers need a stronger envelope while preserving comfort and mobility.SUVs, pickups, vans
B6 / FB6 / BR6High-demand private, commercial, NGO, embassy, and government protection.A frequent armored vehicle specification range for ballistic glass, steel reinforcement, and run-flat planning.SUVs, pickups, CIT, APC support vehicles
B7 / FB7 / BR7Higher-risk operational areas and demanding security programs.Requires careful weight, suspension, braking, drivetrain, glass thickness, and route planning.APCs, tactical vehicles, selected SUVs and trucks
Custom / Mission SpecificSpecial threat profiles, route risks, cargo needs, or tactical requirements.May include reinforced floors, overlap protection, communications, cameras, lighting, and secure storage.Purpose-built security vehicles
Buyer Guidance
The right answer is not always the highest level.
A stronger armor level can add weight, affect drivability, and change service requirements. The better decision is the level that matches the real mission.
Vehicle Suitability
Glass area, chassis strength, suspension, brakes, payload, and intended use determine whether a vehicle is a good candidate.
Mobility After Armoring
Protection should be balanced with steering, acceleration, braking, tire load, cooling, and long-term reliability.
Export and Documentation
Destination requirements, shipment timing, technical documentation, and end-use planning should be considered early.
B6 is often the practical executive standard; B7 is for higher-risk operations.
B6/BR6 is commonly discussed for executive, commercial, NGO, and government mobility where strong ballistic protection must still preserve daily usability. B7/BR7 is considered when the risk profile, route, or operating environment demands a heavier protection package and the vehicle can support the added weight and engineering requirements.
Specification Flow
How SchutzCarr helps buyers choose protection.
- Use-case intake
- Threat and route review
- Vehicle category selection
- Armor and glass specification
- Build and delivery planning
Buyer Questions
Clear answers before specification.
Is B6 the same as BR6 or FB6?
Not always. Buyers often use these terms interchangeably, but the exact reference can depend on the standard, test method, and material being discussed. SchutzCarr clarifies the intended protection reference before quoting.
Should every armored vehicle be built to B7?
No. B7 may be appropriate for higher-risk missions, but it can add weight and complexity. The better choice depends on the threat profile, vehicle type, usage, and delivery requirements.
Does ballistic glass determine the full protection level?
No. Glass is one part of the protection envelope. Steel, overlaps, doors, pillars, roof, floor, hinges, tires, and vehicle systems all matter.
Can SchutzCarr recommend a level for my country or route?
Yes. Share the country, operating area, passenger profile, vehicle type, and expected use case so the team can recommend a practical protection direction.
Need help choosing the right protection level?
Send the vehicle type, destination country, passenger profile, and expected use case. SchutzCarr can help narrow the right specification before build planning.