DRDO Unveils Next-Gen Explosive Reactive Armour for FRCV Tanks Protection Against Tandem Warhead Defense

India’s Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) has reached a significant milestone in tank and armored vehicle protection with the development of the Next-Generation Explosive Reactive Armour (NGERA). Designed to meet the challenges of modern warfare, this cutting-edge system is tailored to defend tanks against the most sophisticated threats, including tandem-shaped charge warheads and kinetic energy projectiles.

The High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL), a key DRDO facility, has spearheaded this initiative, building on its proven expertise with earlier ERA systems like the ERA Mk-I and ERA Mk-II. These previous iterations have already enhanced the survivability of India’s T-72 and Arjun Mk-IA Main Battle Tanks (MBTs). NGERA, however, represents a quantum leap, featuring advanced materials, innovative design, and superior defensive capabilities.

Key Innovations in NGERA

One of NGERA's standout achievements is its use of a low-sensitivity explosive composition. This formulation, developed in-house, incorporates a precise mix of two advanced explosives and carefully optimized ingredients. This combination ensures that the armor:

• Resists accidental detonation, such as from small arms fire.
• Offers a remarkable shelf life exceeding 15 years.

The system’s reactive elements are housed in robust metallic panels that can be bolted or welded onto a tank’s exterior. These panels are designed with modularity in mind, using common-sized reactive elements for all sections. This ensures that NGERA can be easily adapted to a variety of tank platforms, including India’s future-ready Future Ready Combat Vehicles (FRCVs).

Unparalleled Defense Against Modern Threats

NGERA has been meticulously engineered to counter advanced anti-tank munitions. In extensive field tests, it consistently reduced penetration by over 50% for tandem-shaped charge warheads and 30% for kinetic energy projectiles like the 125mm FSAPDS (Fin-Stabilized Armor-Piercing Discarding Sabot) rounds.

The system’s effectiveness is further enhanced by an internal shock attenuator, which prevents sympathetic detonation of neighboring reactive modules when one module is struck. This innovation ensures the tank retains its defensive integrity even under sustained attack.

Rigorous Testing and Deployment

NGERA has undergone rigorous testing to ensure its battlefield readiness. Mock-up fitment trials on T-72 tanks were conducted at the Combat Vehicles Research and Development Establishment (CVRDE) to perfect its installation process. The system was also developed in collaboration with the Defence Metallurgical Research Laboratory (DMRL) and CVRDE, ensuring it meets the protection requirements of the Next-Generation Main Battle Tank (NGMBT).

Salient Features of NGERA

• Enhanced Protection:

  • Over 50% reduction in penetration from tandem-shaped charge warheads.
  • Over 30% reduction in penetration from KE projectiles.

• Safety and Longevity:

  • Resistant to small arms fire.
  • Shelf life of more than 15 years.

• Modular Design:

  • Common-sized reactive elements for flexibility across tank types.
  • Adds approximately 1.65 tons to the tank’s weight.

• No Sympathetic Detonation:

  • Adjacent modules remain unaffected, ensuring sustained protection.

A Leap Toward Self-Reliance

NGERA exemplifies India’s strides toward self-reliance in defense technology. With its ability to counter modern anti-tank threats effectively, this system positions India’s armored units to face evolving battlefield challenges with confidence. Whether deployed on current platforms like the T-90 and Arjun or future designs like the FRCV, NGERA ensures that India’s tanks remain resilient against the most formidable adversaries.

This advancement is not just a technological achievement but a testament to DRDO’s commitment to equipping India’s armed forces with world-class capabilities.