The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has developed indigenous armour panels that are 20% lighter than existing systems while meeting STANAG 4569 Level 6 protection requirements against 30 mm armour-piercing ammunition.
Developed by DRDO’s Research and Development Establishment (Engineers), R&DE(E), in Pune, the technology is intended for future main battle tanks, light tanks and Future Infantry Combat Vehicles (FICVs).
The panels have completed in-house trials and met the organisation’s operational requirements. Their reduced weight could help improve vehicle mobility, fuel efficiency and operational flexibility, particularly in mountainous terrain and high-altitude regions.
The technology is now being offered to industry through DRDO’s Transfer of Technology (ToT) programme. Several leading companies have reportedly shown interest in adopting the technology for manufacturing.
The lighter armour could also provide vehicle designers with additional weight capacity for integrating sensors, electronics and active protection systems. The initiative is expected to support domestic defence manufacturing and reduce dependence on imported armour protection technologies.
The panels have not yet been formally selected for any specific vehicle programme. Their next stage involves industrial production and evaluation for individual military platforms.