Pune, October 18, 2026: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has developed indigenous armour panels that are 20 percent lighter than existing systems while still meeting the specified protection requirement against 30 mm armour-piercing (AP) ammunition. The work has been carried out by the Research and Development Establishment (Engineers) [R&DE(E)] in Pune, and is aimed at future main battle tanks (MBTs), light tanks and Future Infantry Combat Vehicles (FICVs).
Protection with less weight
A senior DRDO scientist said the new armour “is 20% lighter than the current system, matching global standards in this sector.” According to the source, in-house testing has been completed and the panels have already met the operational requirements of the force internally. R&DE(E) has now offered the technology to private companies through the Transfer of Technology (ToT) route, and several leading firms have shown interest.
The panels are said to provide protection meeting STANAG 4569 Level 6 requirements against 30 mm AP threats. STANAG 4569 is a NATO protection standard for military vehicles, and Level 6 is associated with high-velocity 30 mm armour-piercing ammunition at a reference distance of 500 metres, mainly on frontal arcs, along with related artillery fragmentation threats.
Why lighter armour matters
Conventional steel armour can offer similar protection, but it adds significant weight and can place a heavier burden on engines and suspension systems. That extra mass can reduce mobility, fuel efficiency and strategic transportability. DRDO officials said the new panels are meant to address these operational requirements as modern battlefields increasingly feature armour-piercing ammunition, anti-tank guided missiles, rocket-propelled grenades, mines, improvised explosive devices and drones.
The lighter design is especially important for light tanks and infantry combat vehicles operating across difficult terrain, including high-altitude areas. An Army officer noted that, given the extensive use of tanks in mountain regions, the system “adds a new dimension to mountain warfare and it provides advantage to armoured troops operationally.” The reduced weight may also give designers more room to add sensors, active protection systems and electronics without exceeding vehicle weight limits.
Transfer to industry and future use
The technology was formally listed for industry transfer around October 1, 2026, under DRDO’s ToT programme (Category A), with three manufacturing licences available. The package usually includes the bill of materials, manufacturing process, quality assurance plan and test details. No specific vehicle programme has yet formally selected the panels, but the development is relevant to platforms such as the Zorawar light tank and future FICV and MBT projects. The next stage will involve industrial production and evaluation for specific vehicle applications.
By developing the armour indigenously, DRDO is reducing dependence on imported protection systems and supporting domestic defence manufacturing. The report also notes that R&DE(E) has earlier worked on related composite and ceramic armour and hull technologies for next-generation infantry combat vehicles, including efforts focused on weight reduction, lower signatures and modular protection.
The development is part of wider efforts to equip the Indian Army’s mechanised forces with lighter, more mobile and adequately protected platforms for varied operational environments.
