DRDO and IIT-Delhi develop lightweight bulletproof jackets offering 360-degree protection

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Technology-Delhi (IIT-Delhi), has successfully developed lightweight bulletproof jackets designed to offer 360-degree protection.

These advanced jackets, named 'ABHED' (Advanced Ballistics for High Energy Defeat), provide protection against high-threat levels while maintaining a minimal weight, making them suitable for the most rigorous defence requirements.

Developed at the DRDO Industry Academia Centre of Excellence (DIA-CoE) at IIT-Delhi, these jackets are made from polymers and boron carbide ceramic materials, both of which are indigenous to India.

The design of the jackets features modular front and rear armour plates that ensure comprehensive protection from all angles, according to the Ministry of Defence. Weighing between 8.2 kg and 9.5 kg, depending on the BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) protection levels, the jackets are lighter than the weight limits prescribed by the Indian Army's General Staff Qualitative Requirements.

The advanced design of the ABHED jackets is the result of extensive research, involving the characterisation of materials under high strain rates and sophisticated modelling and simulation techniques conducted in collaboration with DRDO researchers. The armour plates have undergone stringent research and development trials, meeting all necessary protocols and ensuring their efficacy against the highest threat levels.

The Centre is now set to transfer the jacket's technology to three Indian industries that have been shortlisted through a selection process, according to the ministry’s statement. These industries will receive support for further development and production of the jackets.

Samir V Kamat, Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, praised the development as a significant achievement, highlighting the success of the collaborative ecosystem between DRDO, academia, and industry. He noted that the creation of these lightweight bulletproof jackets demonstrates the effective synergy of defence R&D efforts in India.

The DIA-CoE, established in 2022 as part of the modified Joint Advanced Technology Centre at IIT-Delhi, has been actively engaged in various projects that explore advanced technologies for defence applications. By fostering collaboration between DRDO scientists, academic researchers, and industry partners, the Centre aims to drive innovation and strengthen India’s defence capabilities.

The breakthrough in bulletproof jacket design is expected to enhance the protection and mobility of Indian defence personnel, marking a significant step forward in the country’s efforts to develop cutting-edge military technology.