'India's lightest bulletproof vest ,' DRDO unveils new bulletproof jacket to combat highest threat levels

In a groundbreaking development, a unit of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has announced the successful creation of the lightest bulletproof jacket in India, specifically designed to counter the highest threat level 6. This significant achievement was detailed in an official statement released on Tuesday by the Ministry of Defence.

Novel Design and Advanced Materials

According to the statement, this innovative jacket is the result of a new design approach that incorporates novel materials and advanced manufacturing processes. The Defence Materials and Stores Research and Development Establishment (DMSRDE) in Kanpur spearheaded this project, marking a remarkable milestone in India's defence technology landscape.

Successful Testing and Specifications

The statement highlighted that the newly developed bulletproof jacket was rigorously tested at TBRL, Chandigarh, in compliance with BIS 17051-2018 standards. Specifically designed to withstand 7.62 x 54 R API (level 6 of BIS 17051) ammunition, the front hard armour panel (HAP) of this jacket demonstrated exceptional resilience by defeating multiple hits (six shots) of 7.62x54 R API sniper rounds in both ICW (in-conjunction with) and standalone configurations.

Enhanced Wearability and Comfort

One of the standout features of this advanced bulletproof jacket is its ergonomically designed front HAP, crafted from a monolithic ceramic plate with polymer backing. This design not only enhances protection but also significantly improves wearability and comfort during operational deployments, a crucial factor for frontline personnel.

The statement further noted that the areal density of the ICW hard armour panel (HAP) and standalone HAP is impressively low, measuring less than 40 kg/m2 and 43 kg/m2, respectively. This lightweight yet robust construction ensures optimal maneuverability and agility for defence personnel in various combat scenarios.