Liquid armour relies on the properties of materials called shear-thickening fluids.

ECONOMIST: Monitor: Fluid defences | The

If these tests are successful, liquid armour could furnish soldiers with protective clothing that is more comfortable and less cumbersome than existing body armour, and provides them with greater protection.

ECONOMIST: Monitor: Fluid defences | The

In recent tests at the company's Advanced Technology Centre in Bristol, a special liquid has been used to construct a material that is thinner than normal body armour and yet is able to stop a low-velocity bullet.

ECONOMIST: Monitor: Fluid defences | The