What’s in this Article?
- Table of Contents
- Why in the news?
- Key Features
- Characteristics of lightest bullet-resistant vest possess
- Capabilities of this bullet-resistant vest
- Key Facts
- About Bulletproof Jackets
- About DRDO
Why in the news?
- The bulletproof jacket is based on a new design approach wherein novel material along with new processes has been used, the Ministry of Defence said in a statement on Tuesday (23 April, 2024).
- It has been developed by DRDO’s Defence Materials and Stores Research and Development Establishment (DMSRDE), Kanpur and protects 62 x 54 R API (level 6 of BIS 17051) ammunition.
- The bulletproof jacket was recently successfully tested at the TBRL, Chandigarh as per BIS 17051-2018, the statement added.
- “DMSRDE, Kanpur has successfully developed an indigenous lightweight Bulletproof Jacket (BPJ) for protection against the highest threat level 6 of BIS. This is the first of its kind in monolithic ceramic which can stop 6 7.62×54 API bullets,” read a post on the official DRDO handle on social media site X.
Key Features:
- Provides protection against 62 x 54 R API ammunition (Level 6 of BIS 17051)
- Utilizes a new design approach with novel materials and processes
- Front Hard Armour Panel (HAP) can withstand multiple hits (6 shots) from sniper rounds
- Ergonomically designed front HAP made of monolithic ceramic plate with polymer backing
- Enhances wearability and comfort during operations
- Areal density of ICW HAP is less than 40 kg/m2, and standalone HAP is less than 43 kg/m2
What characteristics does the lightest bullet-resistant vest possess?
- Kanpur-based Defence Materials and Store Research and Development (DMSRDE) developed the lightest bulletproof jacket for protection against 62 x 54 R API (Level 6 of BIS 17051) ammunition.
- The defence ministry said that this bulletproof jacket was successfully tested at Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL), Chandigarh. The jacket is reportedly based on a new design approach.
What are the capabilities of this bullet-resistant vest?
- The frontal Hard Armour Panel (HAP) of this jacket has the capacity to endure multiple impacts or withstand up to six rounds of 62 x 54 R API (Sniper rounds), whether used in conjunction with other materials or independently.
- The statement further notes that the areal density of the HAP, whether used in conjunction with other materials or independently, is below 40 kg/m2 and 43 kg/m2
- Constructed from a monolithic ceramic plate and polymer backing, it enhances comfort and wearability during operational tasks.
- The Secretary of the Department of Defence Research and Development and the Chairman of DRDO have commended DMSRDE for successfully creating this lightweight bulletproof jacket, offering protection against the highest threat levels.
- Previously, it was mentioned that Indian Air Force helicopter crews engaged in counter-terrorism and internal security duties would receive new bulletproof jackets that are lighter and more comfortable for use during flight compared to current models.
- The Indian Air Force requires jackets that weigh no more than 4 kg during flight and 8 kg for combat survival, providing Level 3+ ballistic protection.
- Level 3+ protection includes defense against various types of bullets fired from 62 mm rifles, such as the AK-47, at distances as close as 25 meters.
- Reportedly, each member participating in such operations will be issued a bulletproof jacket.
Key Facts
- Developing organization: DRDO-DMSRDE, Kanpur
- Protection level: Highest threat level 6 (BIS 17051)
- Ammunition protection: 62 x 54 R API
- Front HAP: Monolithic ceramic plate with polymer backing
- Testing facility: Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL), Chandigarh
- Areal density: ICW HAP 40 kg/m2, Standalone HAP 43 kg/m2
About Bulletproof Jackets
- Bulletproof jackets, also known as ballistic vests or body armor, are designed to protect against firearm projectiles and shrapnel.
- They are made from layers of strong fibers such as Kevlar or Dyneema, which can absorb and disperse the energy of bullets, reducing their impact.
- Bulletproof jackets come in different levels of protection, ranging from Level I to Level IV, with higher levels capable of stopping more powerful ammunition.
- These jackets are commonly used by military personnel, law enforcement officers, security guards, and in some cases, civilians in high-risk professions.
- While they offer protection against bullets, they are not invincible and can still be penetrated by certain types of ammunition or at close range.
- The weight and comfort of bulletproof jackets vary depending on the materials used and the level of protection, with newer designs aiming to improve mobility and reduce fatigue for the wearer.
About DRDO
- The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is the premier agency under the Department of Defence Research and Development in Ministry of Defence of the Government of India, charged with the military’s research and development, headquartered in Delhi, India.
- It was formed in 1958 by the merger of the Technical Development Establishment and the Directorate of Technical Development and Production of the Indian Ordnance Factories with the Defence Science Organisation under the administration of Jawaharlal Nehru.
- With a network of 52 laboratories that are engaged in developing defence technologies covering various fields like aeronautics, armaments, electronics, land combat engineering, life sciences, materials, missiles, and naval systems, DRDO is India’s largest and most diverse research organisation.
DMSRDE, Kanpur has successfully developed indigenous light weight Bullet Proof Jacket( BPJ) for protection against highest threat level 6 of BIS. This is the first of its kind in monolithic ceramic which can stop 6 7.62×54 API bullets@DefenceMinIndia @SpokespersonMoD pic.twitter.com/v8O43kf8hC
— DRDO (@DRDO_India) April 23, 2024
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