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

New Delhi, India- Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO), in collaboration with researchers from Indian Institute of Technology ( IIT ) Delhi, has successfully developed a new generation of Light-Weight Bullet Proof Jackets named 'ABHED' (vanced 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. 

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

Key Features of ABHED Jacket 

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

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

Transfer of Technology to Indian Industry 

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

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

A Step Towards Enhanced Soldier Protection 

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

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