SMPP Secures ₹300 Crore Twin Contract from Indian Army for Bulletproof Jackets and Advanced Helmets

In a major boost to India’s defense preparedness and domestic defense manufacturing, SMPP Pvt Ltd has been awarded two significant contracts by the Indian Army under the fast-tracked Emergency Procurement Procedure 5 (EP-5). The combined value of the contracts is over ₹300 crore and includes the supply of 27,700 bulletproof jackets (BPJs) and 11,700 advanced ballistic helmets.

The contracts mark another strategic step in India’s long-term vision of self-reliance in critical defense gear under the “Make in India” initiative. The deliveries are expected to be completed within strict timelines—12 months, as mandated under EP-5 guidelines, which are designed for urgent operational requirements.

SMPP: India’s Armour Specialist

Headquartered in New Delhi, SMPP Pvt Ltd is a leading Indian defense manufacturer with over 30 years of experience specializing in ballistic protection. It has supplied armor products to not just the Indian Armed Forces but also over 100,000 soldiers across 20 different countries, including NATO forces.

SMPP was among the first private firms in India to indigenously develop Level III and Level IV bulletproof jackets using Boron Carbide ceramic composite plates, one of the lightest and hardest materials known for stopping high-velocity rounds. The company’s jackets meet NIJ (National Institute of Justice) standards, and the company is certified by Indian and international quality assurance agencies.

What Makes These BPJs and Helmets Advanced?

1. Bulletproof Jackets

The 27,700 bulletproof jackets being supplied are expected to be Modular and Scalable, offering protection from 7.62×39mm mild steel core and 7.62×51mm NATO Ball bullets, commonly used in AK-47s and other battlefield rifles. Features include:

• Lightweight design for high mobility.

• Enhanced upper torso and side protection.

• Adjustable MOLLE pouches for combat utility.

• Designed for hot climates, with breathable and sweat-resistant materials.

These jackets may also feature quick-release mechanisms and compatibility with additional hard armor plates (HAPs), depending on operational needs.

2. Ballistic Helmets

The 11,700 helmets will be made from composite hybrid materials, offering Level IIIA protection against 9mm and .44 Magnum rounds. Notable features include:

• Compatibility with night vision devices (NVDs).

• Integrated communication system mounts.

• Lightweight and ergonomic design for extended wear.

• High resistance to fragments and shrapnel, essential in asymmetric warfare zones.

These helmets may also include modular face shields and are expected to be compatible with existing infantry systems used by the Indian Army.

Why EP-5 Matters

The Emergency Procurement Procedure-5 (EP-5), approved by the Ministry of Defence, is a streamlined acquisition mechanism to meet immediate and critical operational requirements. The Indian Army has invoked this route multiple times since the Galwan clash in 2020, leading to quicker induction of frontline gear and systems. Under EP-5:

• The procurement process bypasses multi-tier delays.

• Delivery timelines are fixed at less than 12 months.

• Contracts are generally awarded to proven Indian vendors, reinforcing Atmanirbhar Bharat.

Strengthening the Soldier First Approach

The acquisition of these 39,400 pieces of critical protective gear underscores the Indian Army’s continued emphasis on the “Soldier First” philosophy—ensuring those on the frontlines are equipped with the best life-saving equipment available. This procurement is particularly vital given the volatile and high-risk zones along India’s northern and western borders, where troops face not just small arms fire but also artillery and IED threats.

The twin contracts awarded to SMPP Pvt Ltd are a testament to the growing confidence in India's indigenous defense manufacturing capabilities. With global-standard bulletproof jackets and advanced helmets on their way to frontline soldiers, the Indian Army is not only enhancing troop survivability but also reinforcing its commitment to modernizing infantry forces under Make in India.

As SMPP gears up to fulfill the orders within tight deadlines, this move is set to significantly bolster India's operational readiness and soldier protection architecture in an increasingly hostile regional environment.