In a significant move to boost the protection of its frontline soldiers, the Indian Army has signed a ₹300 crore contract with SMPP Pvt. Ltd., a leading indigenous defense manufacturing company. The contract is for the supply of 27,700 advanced bulletproof jackets and 11,700 next-generation ballistic helmets. The procurement has been approved under the “Emergency Procurement 5 (EP-5)” program, designed to fast-track critical defense acquisitions for operational readiness.
The bulletproof jackets being procured are touted as some of the most advanced in the world. According to SMPP, the jackets feature dynamic load distribution systems and quick-release mechanisms — innovations that significantly enhance comfort, mobility, and quick response in life-threatening scenarios. These features allow soldiers to operate more efficiently and shed their gear instantly in emergencies like water submersion, injury, or chemical exposure.
Meanwhile, the ballistic helmets in the contract have garnered global attention. SMPP claims that these helmets are the first in the world capable of withstanding hard steel-core AK-47 bullets, offering an unparalleled level of head protection in high-risk combat zones such as counter-terrorism operations and border conflicts. This level of ballistic resistance represents a technological leap in combat survivability gear.
Speaking on the development, SMPP Chairman S.C. Kansal stated, “We are proud to support the Indian Army with indigenously developed cutting-edge protection gear. This contract is a testament to India’s growing capabilities in high-tech defense manufacturing.” He added that these helmets and jackets have undergone rigorous field testing and meet international standards for ballistic resistance and soldier ergonomics.
The gear will be manufactured entirely in India, aligning with the government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative to promote self-reliance in defense production. The Indian Army’s decision to source the gear from a domestic vendor not only bolsters national security but also supports indigenous industry and innovation.
Defense experts have lauded the move as timely and strategic. With rising security threats on multiple fronts — from border skirmishes to insurgent attacks — equipping soldiers with advanced protective equipment is essential. “This deal reflects the Army’s serious commitment to safeguarding the lives of its personnel through technological superiority,” said retired Major General Sudhir Jaitley.
The Emergency Procurement 5 route under which this deal was signed allows the armed forces to bypass lengthy tender processes and directly negotiate contracts for urgent operational needs. This has enabled the rapid acquisition of state-of-the-art defense solutions over the past year, many from Indian manufacturers.
As the geopolitical climate remains tense in various regions, this ₹300 crore contract underscores India’s focus on modernizing its military while fostering local defense industry growth. The delivery of jackets and helmets is expected to begin within months and will be distributed among units deployed in high-threat zones.
Sources:
- Ministry of Defence (Press Release)
- SMPP Pvt. Ltd. official statement
- Interviews with defense experts in The Hindu and Livefist Defence
