M56S Battle Armor

"Depends on who you ask... Most Troopers call 'em "plates," us Great War vets call 'em "Fifty-Twos," and then there's the new wave of fresh-mints that calls it "body pack," whatever the hell that means."

- Anonymous ODST Gunnery Sergeant on the new M56S's many nicknames.

The M56 Special Operations Ballistic Battle Armor or M56S, colloquially referred to as ODST Armor, is the special operations version of the standard Marine body armor, rated against vacuum and enhanced with a plethora of useful electronics and upgrades. It was made famous by the M52S's extensive use by the valiant Shock Troopers during the Human Covenant War and earlier First Insurrection. Its iconic charcoal-black coloration still strikes fear into the hearts of secessionists, Remnants, and terrorists alike.

Trivia

 * The M56S derives its name from the year of its manufacture, its full title being "UNSC Military Model 2556 Special Operations Ballistic Battle Armor, Vacuum-Rated." Obviously, the abbreviation is much easier on the ears and tongue.

Behind the Scenes

 * "Bodypack" is the term used by the Combine soldiers in Half Life 2 to describe their body armor, and "plates" is the standard term of reference to the medieval suit of armor, which the M56S in some ways resembles.