Energy weapon protective gear

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Most armor will offer the user protection against both energy and projectile damage, however they are not designed to prevent the armor piercing properties of energy weapons. Reflective armor, commonly referred to as reflec, was the first advancement in armor technology to impede energy weapons. These come in a variety of forms, but most utilize a large suit with material that reflects or refracts energy weapons to reduce damage to the wearer.

While is is highly effective at reducing armor piercing properties of energy weapons, they are useless against projectile rounds and physical attacks. Additionally if a user suffers damage, this means a substantial portion of the armor has been destroyed or phase modulation systems in the armor have malfunctioned, rendering the armor useless. Reflec armor is exceedingly temperamental and essentially a disposable form of armor. Another small detraction is that the armor reflects light, so for some operations where stealth is needed, the armor makes it difficult for the user to operate unnoticed.

Ablat armor has become a popular alternative. Ablat armor is comprised of thin strips (or small hexagon tiles) of dark, ceramic material that diffuses energy. It is prone to damage easily and portions vaporize with each hit. It can be worn over (or under) traditional armor types but is rather bulky.

Instead of a full protective suit, ablat armor is commonly incorporated with non-reflective armor as outer coat of energy protection. Usually it is attached to the surface of existing armor, or sprayed on in a thick coat of ceramic particles with an adhesive compound. This process takes about 2-4 hours and can be done only on planets of average technology or higher. Partial repairs are not possible with ablat, instead an entirely new layer would have to be added if the armor was damaged. So much like reflec armor, it is a disposable form of protection.

As a slight disadvantage ablat armor material is commonly black and in some operations where lighter camouflage is ideal, the dark color will make the wearer stand out from their environment. Despite these shortcomings, ablat armor is looked on as a better alternative to reflec armor. Even though it does not offer as much protection as reflec, it can withstand more punishment and still offer at least some protection.

Ablat Armor:

+4 toughness vs energy damage, negates 2 AP from energy weapons, but offers no protection against ballistic or melee damage. Weight: 2kg (or just 1 kg if added as a protective coat over existing armor) Cost: $500

For every wound that a player receives, reduce the armor value by 2 permanently. Additionally the first time a player is hit in combat, resolve the damage normally. If no wound is scored roll a die. On an even result, 2 points of armor are permanently removed, just like as if a wound was taken. Ablat armor cannot be repaired.