NEW DELHI – The Indian Air Force (IAF) is enhancing the safety of its helicopter crews in counter-terrorism and internal security operations with new, lighter-weight bulletproof jackets. These jackets will provide essential protection while addressing concerns about the comfort and mobility limitations of existing equipment.
The IAF is working with industry partners to develop jackets that offer adequate protection from small arms fire during flight and in combat situations on the ground. The existing 6.5 kg jackets are considered too bulky to comfortably wear while operating aircraft.
Seeking to improve crew safety and performance, the IAF requires new jackets to weigh no more than 4 kg during flight and 8 kg during combat. Additionally, the jackets must offer Level 3+ ballistic protection, shielding crew members from various 7.62 mm rifle rounds, including those from the commonly used AK-47.
This upgrade is vital for aircrew operating in anti-terrorist and internal security operations, such as anti-Naxal missions, where helicopters and personnel are vulnerable to ground fire. The new jackets will have a two-part design: a lighter inner portion for flight use and an outer shell with pockets and all-around protection for combat survival scenarios.
Beyond protection, the IAF emphasizes the importance of the jackets being suitable for Indian climate conditions. They must allow for mobility during flight and combat operations, and ideally have flame-retardant properties for additional safety.
