The new armour technology is intended for future main battle tanks (MBTs), light tanks and future infantry combat vehicles (FICVs)
“The newly developed advanced armour is 20% lighter than the current system, matching global standards in this sector. Defence manufacturers have therefore been developing advanced armour solutions using composite materials, ceramics and layered structures to improve protection relative to weight,” said another DRDO official, requesting anonymity.
Some leading companies have evinced interest,” the senior official said. “In view of the massive deployment of tanks in high-altitude regions, the lightweight effective system adds a new dimension to mountain warfare and it provides advantage to armoured troops operationally,” said another army officer. Transferring the manufacturing know-how to private companies could help expand production capacity and support development of protection systems suited to requirements of the armed forces, said the DRDO official.
We have carried out our in-house testing and met operational requirements of the force internally. We have offered the technology to private players through ToT. “Conventional steel armour can provide protection but adds considerable weight. For India, developing indigenous armour technology can reduce dependence on imported systems and strengthen domestic defence manufacturing.