DRDO & IIT Delhi Unveil ‘ABHED’ – India’s New Lightweight, Indigenous Bulletproof Jacket for Enhanced Protection

In a significant stride towards self-reliance in defence technology, the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi have unveiled a new, state-of-the-art bulletproof jacket named ‘ABHED’ (Advanced Ballistics for High Energy Defeat). This collaborative effort, developed at the DRDO Industry Academia Centre of Excellence (DIA-CoE) at IIT Delhi, is set to revolutionize personal protection gear for Indian armed forces, offering a lighter, stronger, and fully indigenous solution.

The ABHED bulletproof jacket represents a remarkable innovation in body armor technology, meticulously engineered using polymers and indigenous boron carbide ceramic material. This combination is not just a testament to India’s growing prowess in advanced material science but also a significant leap towards reducing the nation’s dependence on imported defence equipment.

The Science Behind ABHED

The development of ABHED involved extensive research and testing, leveraging high strain rate characterization of materials, followed by precise modeling and simulation in collaboration with DRDO experts. The result is a modular design jacket that offers comprehensive protection without compromising on mobility or comfort. One of the standout features of the jacket is its weight. At a minimum of 8.2 kg and a maximum of 9.5 kg, the ABHED jacket is significantly lighter than the weight limits set by the Indian Army’s General Staff Qualitative Requirements (GSQR).

This weight reduction is a game-changer for military personnel who often have to endure long hours in hostile environments. By utilizing boron carbide—a material known for its exceptional hardness and lightweight properties—the jacket provides a formidable barrier against high-caliber rounds while ensuring the wearer’s agility and endurance are not compromised.

Comprehensive Protection

The ABHED jacket is designed with front and rear armors that provide 360-degree protection, making it highly suitable for modern combat scenarios where threats can emerge from any direction. It meets the highest threat levels as per the BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) specifications, offering unparalleled protection against various ballistic threats. The armor plates have successfully passed all necessary R&D trials, adhering to stringent testing protocols to ensure the highest standards of safety and performance.

Ready for Transfer and Deployment

With the research phase completed and successful trials behind them, DRDO and IIT Delhi are now preparing for the next step: transferring the technology to industry partners. Based on a comprehensive selection criteria matrix, several Indian industries have been shortlisted for the Transfer of Technology (ToT). The DIA-CoE is ready to hand over the technology to three such industries, paving the way for mass production and deployment of these advanced bulletproof jackets to Indian armed forces.

A Testament to Collaboration

The development of ABHED is not just a triumph of technology but also a shining example of collaboration between defence research, academia, and industry. The DIA-CoE, established in 2022 by transforming the Joint Advanced Technology Center of DRDO at IIT Delhi, aims to foster such synergies for breakthrough innovations. It has been instrumental in bringing together DRDO scientists, academic researchers, and industry partners to work on advanced defence technologies.

The Road Ahead

As India continues its push towards indigenization in defence manufacturing, ABHED stands as a symbol of what can be achieved through concerted efforts and collaboration. With the successful development of this jacket, Indian soldiers will soon have access to a world-class, lightweight, and highly effective protective gear designed and made in India. This not only enhances their safety on the battlefield but also strengthens the country’s defence capabilities.

Secretary of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, Dr. Samir V. Kamat, lauded the achievement, highlighting the successful ecosystem of defence R&D fostered by DRDO, academia, and industry. As the technology transitions to production, the impact of ABHED will be felt far beyond the laboratories and test ranges—it will be a shield for those who guard the nation.

In conclusion, ABHED is more than just a bulletproof jacket; it is a milestone in India's journey towards self-reliance in defence technology, promising enhanced protection for those who serve on the front lines.