The Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO), in collaboration with researchers from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, has made a significant advancement in personal protective gear by developing a state-of-the-art lightweight bulletproof jacket. This innovative jacket, named ABHED (Advanced Ballistics for High Energy Defeat), is designed to provide comprehensive 360-degree security to its wearer. According to reports from IANS, the jackets have been created at the DRDO Industry Academia Center of Excellence (DIA-CoE) situated within IIT Delhi.
Technological Innovations in Design and Materials
The newly designed jackets are crafted using advanced polymers and domestically sourced boron carbide ceramic materials. This modern composition not only enhances the protective capabilities of the jacket but also significantly reduces its weight. The Ministry of Defense has confirmed that these jackets comply with all necessary testing protocols, confirming their reliability and safety. With armor coverage on both the front and back, the jackets ensure complete protection from ballistic threats from all angles.
Lightweight yet Resilient
One of the most notable features of the ABHED jackets is their reduced weight. While the current issue bulletproof jackets used by the Indian Army weigh around 10 kg, the new ABHED jackets are approximately 2.5 kg lighter. This weight reduction does not compromise safety; in fact, the jackets have successfully withstood multiple tests, demonstrating their capability to endure shots from an AK47 firearm. They are designed to remain effective against a total of eight rounds, showcasing their high durability and protective efficiency.
Future Manufacturing and Collaboration
The government has announced its intent to transfer the technology behind these innovative jackets to three industrial partners, paving the way for large-scale production. This move is anticipated to not only enhance the availability of high-quality protective gear for military personnel but also boost the domestic defense manufacturing sector in India.
Driving Innovation through Collaboration
Dr. Sameer V. Kamat, Secretary of the Department of Defense Research and Development and Chairman of DRDO, emphasized that the development of the ABHED jackets highlights the successful ecosystem of collaboration between DRDO, academic institutions, and the defense industry. The formation of DIA-CoE in 2022 was a strategic initiative aimed at fostering this partnership and driving innovation within the defense research landscape.
Summary of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Model Name | ABHED (Advanced Ballistics for High Energy Defeat) |
| Weight | Approximately 7.5 kg (2.5 kg lighter than current jackets) |
| Protection Level | Effective against 8 rounds from an AK47 |
| Material | Polymers and made-in-India boron carbide ceramic |
| Manufacturing | Technology transfer to three industries for large-scale production |
In summary, the development of the ABHED bulletproof jacket marks a promising leap forward in personal armor, combining lightweight materials with advanced protective technologies. As these jackets become available for mass production, they are expected to enhance the safety and effectiveness of personnel in defense operations, propelling India toward self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
