9 July, 2025-The Indian Army is set to procure advanced bulletproof jackets and helmets worth ₹300 crore as part of a major push to enhance the safety and combat readiness of its personnel. The decision comes amid ongoing efforts to modernize the armed forces under the “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” initiative.
According to defence sources, the new gear will offer improved ballistic protection, ergonomic design, and lighter weight to ensure greater mobility and endurance during operations. The bulletproof jackets will be capable of withstanding 7.62mm armour-piercing rounds, while the helmets will include integrated communication systems and high-impact resistant materials.
The procurement is being done through domestic manufacturers, reflecting the government’s continued focus on indigenisation of defence equipment. The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) had approved the proposal earlier this year, and final trials of the equipment are reportedly in the advanced stages.
Officials stated that the gear will be primarily deployed with troops stationed in sensitive and high-risk regions, including counter-terrorism zones and border areas. The improved design of the jackets includes modular attachments, better trauma protection, and all-weather capabilities, which are expected to significantly enhance soldier survivability in the field.
The helmets, designed using lightweight composites, are expected to reduce fatigue during prolonged missions while offering superior head protection. The incorporation of communication systems will also improve coordination during combat and surveillance operations.
This ₹300 crore investment forms part of a larger modernization plan that includes the acquisition of advanced small arms, surveillance equipment, and tactical gear under the Future Infantry Soldier as a System (F-INSAS) programme. Defence analysts have noted that such upgrades are vital to keeping pace with evolving battlefield threats and to support troops deployed in forward areas.
The Indian Army has consistently emphasized the need for better protective gear in recent years, especially after heightened tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and repeated encounters in insurgency-affected regions. The new equipment is expected to bridge existing capability gaps and ensure that frontline soldiers are better equipped to face modern combat challenges.
With production set to begin shortly, deliveries are expected in phases once final quality assurance checks are completed. Defence manufacturers involved in the project are expected to meet high-performance standards while ensuring cost-efficiency.
The initiative is seen as a step forward in strengthening India’s defence preparedness and boosting indigenous manufacturing, aligning with the vision of making India self-reliant in critical military technology.
