In a groundbreaking achievement for defense research, The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi have developed advanced lightweight bulletproof jackets named ABHED (Advanced Ballistics for High Energy Defeat). The jackets were created at the DRDO Industry Academia Centre of Excellence (DIA-CoE) at IIT Delhi, showcasing a remarkable collaboration between academia, industry, and defense research.
These cutting-edge jackets are crafted using polymers and indigenous boron carbide ceramic material, offering enhanced protection while remaining lighter than conventional body armor. The modular design provides 360ยฐ protection with front and rear armor plates, meeting the highest threat levels set by the Indian Armyโs General Staff Qualitative Requirements (GSQR).
Weighing in at 8.2 kg for BIS Level III and 9.5 kg for BIS Level IV, ABHED jackets are not only lightweight but also robust, having passed all necessary R&D trials. Their design is based on rigorous material characterization at high strain rates, along with advanced modeling and simulation done in collaboration with DRDO.
The DIA-CoE, established in 2022, plays a pivotal role in fostering collaboration between DRDO, academia, and industry partners to drive innovation in defense technology. The jackets are ready for mass production, with the Centre preparing to transfer technology to three selected Indian industries.
This milestone reflects the strength of India’s defense R&D ecosystem, which is increasingly relying on homegrown solutions. Dr. Samir V. Kamat, Chairman of DRDO, hailed the achievement as a testament to the potential of collaborative research, ensuring the safety of Indian soldiers with lighter, highly effective protective gear.