LONDON, Aug. 1 (UPI) -- British troops in Afghanistan will soon be issued with the final phase of a pelvic protection system to mitigate the effects of explosions.

The final tier of the system consists of ballistic knee-length shorts, designed for use by troops whose roles demand greater levels of protection on patrol -- such as those operating the lead metal detector in teams searching for improvised explosive devices.

Tier One is worn as underwear, manufactured from scientifically tested ballistic silk that provides an initial level of protection to mitigate against the effects of blasts, including shrapnel.

Tier Two is a second layer of detachable pelvic body armor, worn by troops when carrying out higher risk tasks outside the wire.

All three tiers integrate with the rest of troops' personal kit, which has been redesigned specifically to be worn with body armor.

"I'm delighted that the final phase of this pelvic protection system -- already proving very effective on operations -- has now been delivered," said Minister for Defense Equipment, Support and Technology Peter Luff. "Along with the new Personal Clothing System, this will afford our troops greater protection, versatility and comfort on operations.

"This investment in cutting-edge science and technology will benefit the long term welfare of our troops, demonstrating our commitment to providing them with the best possible kit on the front line."

British troops deploying to Afghanistan in October are to be among the first to benefit from the new personal clothing system -- a tougher, more comfortable and efficient combat uniform that can be easily adapted to suit the many different environments troops face on the frontline.