Indian Army to be Equipped with Next-Generation Indigenous Bulletproof Gear

New Delhi, August 28, 2025 – The Indian Army is set to receive a major upgrade in personal protection gear as part of a new emergency procurement contract with domestic defence manufacturer SMPP Ltd. Valued at over ₹300 crore, the deal will see the delivery of 27,700 advanced bulletproof jackets and 11,700 modern ballistic helmets designed and produced entirely in India.

Unlike conventional protective equipment, these next-generation jackets are designed with lighter weight materials, quick-release systems, and enhanced mobility features, ensuring that soldiers remain agile without compromising safety. The helmets are also a significant step forward – capable of withstanding hard steel-core bullets fired from AK-47s, making them among the most advanced protective headgear available to the Army.

SMPP has emerged as a leader in the indigenous defence protection space, holding more than 90% share of India’s body armour market. The company, based in Palwal, Haryana, has filed 17 patents, with 10 already granted, reflecting its focus on innovation and self-reliance.

This procurement is part of India’s ongoing push to strengthen domestic defence manufacturing under the government’s Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiatives. By sourcing advanced gear from local industries, the Army not only boosts troop safety but also reduces dependence on foreign suppliers.

With the delivery of these new jackets and helmets, frontline troops will soon be equipped with battle-tested, globally competitive armour tailored to Indian conditions – a move that marks a decisive step toward modernizing soldier protection in the world’s second-largest army.