DRDO and IIT Delhi Develop 'ABHED' Bulletproof Jackets, Revolutionizing Soldier Protection

New Delhi, India- The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO), in collaboration with researchers from the Indian Institute of Technology ( IIT ) Delhi, has successfully developed a new generation of Light-Weight Bullet Proof Jackets named 'ABHED' (Advanced Ballistics for High Energy Defeat). This cutting-edge protective gear is being hailed as a significant breakthrough in body armour technology, providing enhanced protection with reduced weight. 

The 'ABHED' jackets have been developed under the Defence Industry Academia Centre of Excellence (DIA-CoE) at IIT Delhi. The DIA-CoE, established to promote joint research between academia and defence, played a pivotal role in bringing together DRDO's scientific expertise and IIT Delhi’s research capacity. The collaboration focuses on leveraging advanced materials science and high-end technology to develop next-generation defence equipment. 

Key Features of the ABHED Jacket 

The bulletproof jackets are made using state-of-the-art polymers combined with indigenous boron carbide ceramic material. This unique combination of materials ensures optimal protection while keeping the jackets light enough for operational use by military personnel. The development process involved extensive material characterization under high strain rates, followed by rigorous modelling and simulation, all conducted in close coordination with DRDO.

The armour plates, integral to the jacket's effectiveness, underwent extensive research and development trials to ensure they meet the stringent safety protocols of the Indian Army. The plates have successfully passed all required tests, making the jackets compliant with the highest threat-level specifications. 

Transfer of Technology to Indian Industry 

The innovation is now poised to transition from research labs to the production phase. A selection process has shortlisted several Indian industries for the Transfer of Technology (ToT) of the ABHED jacket. Three firms have been selected for handholding and technology transfer, marking a crucial step towards mass production of the jacket for military use. This also underscores the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative by focusing on indigenous production of critical defence equipment.

One of the most remarkable features of the 'ABHED' jacket is its weight. With different variants weighing 8.2 kg and 9.5 kg, depending on the BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) level, the jacket is lighter than the maximum weight limits specified in the General Staff Qualitative Requirement (GSQR) of the Indian Army. Despite being significantly lighter, the jacket’s modular design offers 360-degree protection with robust front and rear armour plates. This improvement in weight will enhance the mobility and combat efficiency of soldiers without compromising their safety, especially in high-risk combat environments. 

A Step Towards Enhanced Soldier Protection 

The development of the ABHED jacket is an important milestone for India’s defence research and industrial collaboration. It promises not only to bolster the protective capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces but also to enhance the country's technological standing in the field of advanced body armour solutions. The successful transfer of this technology to Indian industries is expected to result in the rapid deployment of frontline troops, ensuring that they are equipped with the latest protective gear. 

As India continues to face complex security challenges, innovations like the ABHED jacket reflect the nation’s growing commitment to equipping its soldiers with the best available technology, while simultaneously advancing domestic manufacturing capabilities.