a V-neck down to the pubic bone in a combat outfit just SCREAMS "please target my vital organs"
As opposed to the numerous examples of symbols on the chest? Or colors on the torso being different than other parts of the costume? Do Captain America's stripes magically make him a better target?
Be gung-ho about the changes in characterization, sexism, or whatever, but please stop bringing up the protection argument. It does not work in this case.