According to the Ministry of Defence, the bulletproof jacket was successfully tested at Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory (TBRL), Chandigarh.
DRDO Develops India’s lightest Lightest Bullet Proof Jacket
DRDO’s Defence Materials and Stores Research and Development Establishment, Kanpur has successfully developed the lightest Bullet Proof Jacket in the country for protection against 7.62 x 54 R API (Level 6 of BIS 17051) ammunition.  Recently, this bullet proof jacket was successfully tested at Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory, Chandigarh as per BIS 17051-2018. This jacket is based upon new design approach, where novel material along with new processes have been used.
The front Hard Armour Panel of this jacket defeats multiple hits (06 shots) of 7.62 x 54 R API (Sniper rounds) in both ICW (In-conjunction with) and Standalone design. The ergonomically designed front HAP is made up of monolithic ceramic plate with polymer backing which enhances the wearability and comfort during the operation. The ergonomically designed front HAP is made up of monolithic ceramic plate with polymer backing which enhances the wearability and comfort during the operation. The areal density of ICW Hard Armour Panel (HAP) and standalone HAP is less than 40 kg/m2 and 43 kg/m2 respectively.
A Brief History of Bullet Proof Jackets
Bullet proof jackets are meant to protect the wearer’s torso against bullets. Bullet proof jackets were first extensively developed during World War II, they consisted of overlapping plates of steel, aluminum, or bonded fibre glass attached within a nylon garment to protect the wearer. Modern day bullet proof jackets are usually made of a variety of materials like kevlar, steel, polyethylene (PE) or ceramic.
Indian Army issues two tenders to procure 62,500 bulletproof jackets
Amid the threat of the use of steel core bullets by terrorists in India, the Indian Army has issued tenders for acquiring 62,500 bulletproof jackets (BPJs) for its frontline troops which would be able to protect them from such bullets. The Ministry of Defence has issued two separate tenders for these jackets under Make in India including one for 47,627 jackets under the normal route and the other one for 15,000 jackets under emergency procurement procedures which would be finalized in the next three to four months
