A thermal protection system that comprises an assembly of at least one electrical component and a heat shield surrounding the electrical component, wherein the heat shield forms a pocket between the electrical element and the heat shield and associated methods. The electrical element has at least one electrical lead. The system permits the electrical lead(s) to increase in temperature sufficient to permit soldering of the electrical lead(s) to a second electrical element. The thermal protection system also comprises a heat sink to protect the electrical element, which comprises a heat capacity material. The system also comprises electrical lead(s) with a low-cross sectional area.