methods and systems for an armor system are provided . the system includes a first face sheet and a shaped preform extending from the first face sheet . the preform includes a first edge proximate the first face sheet , a sidewall extending from the first edge to a flange extending substantially perpendicularly from the sidewall . the preform circumscribes an area of the first face sheet . the system also includes a tile of armor material complementarily - shaped to fit within the area circumscribed by the preform . the tile is positioned within the preform such that at least a portion of the tile is between the first face sheet and the flange . the system includes a second face sheet covering the preform and the tile on a side opposite from the first face sheet .