The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), in collaboration with researchers from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi, has developed advanced lightweight bulletproof jackets named ABHED (Advanced Ballistics for High Energy Defeat), offering 360-degree protection. The development was announced by the Ministry of Defence.

Innovative Materials and Design

The ABHED jackets were developed at the DRDO Industry Academia Centre of Excellence (DIA-CoE) at IIT Delhi. They are made using a combination of polymers and indigenous boron carbide ceramic material. 

The Ministry stated that the design configuration is based on material characterization at high strain rates, followed by modeling and simulation in collaboration with DRDO.

Lightweight and High Protection

The armour plates used in the jackets have successfully passed all research and development trials, meeting the highest threat levels while remaining lighter than the weight limits specified in the General Staff Qualitative Requirement of the Indian Army. 

The modular-designed jackets, with front and rear armours, weigh between 8.2 kg and 9.5 kg depending on the BIS level and provide full 360-degree protection.

Transfer of Technology to Industry

Several Indian industries have been shortlisted for the Transfer of Technology (ToT), and the Ministry noted that the technology is ready to be transferred to three selected companies. 

This collaboration between DRDO, academia, and the industry represents an efficient ecosystem for defense research and development, according to Dr Samir V Kamat, Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO.

Collaborative Research at DIA-CoE

The DIA-CoE, established by modifying the Joint Advanced Technology Center of DRDO at IIT Delhi in 2022, has been actively involved in several advanced technology projects. These initiatives bring together DRDO scientists, academic researchers, and industry partners to drive innovation in defense technologies.

-- IANS