In a major boost to India’s defence indigenisation efforts, SMPP Ltd., a leading homegrown defence equipment manufacturer, has bagged two significant contracts from the Indian Army worth over ₹300 crore. The contracts, awarded under Emergency Procurement 5 on June 22, 2025, include the supply of 27,700 bulletproof jackets and 11,700 advanced ballistic helmets.
SMPP known for its advanced personal protection systems, continues to play a critical role in enhancing the operational capability of Indian soldiers. The new contracts add to SMPP’s growing portfolio of defence supply orders and reaffirm its position as a key contributor to India’s goal of self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
According to the company, the bulletproof jackets feature dynamic load distribution and a quick-release mechanism, significantly enhancing mobility and comfort without compromising protection. The helmets are equally revolutionary, being the first in the world capable of stopping AK-47-fired hard steel core bullets, one of the most lethal threats on the battlefield.
“SMPP has once again shown that we are better than the best,” said Dr. Shiv Chand Kansal, Chairman and Managing Director of SMPP, an alumnus of IIT. “We work with the vision to protect those who protect us and to lead in delivering advanced technological solutions to our armed forces.”
Ashish Kansal, Director and CEO of SMPP, highlighted the company’s innovation-led strategy, which has yielded 17 patent filings and 10 grants. “With over 90% market share in the personal protection segment (as per 1Lattice report), our obsession with R&D ensures that we constantly upgrade our products to meet the evolving battlefield needs of our soldiers,” he noted.
Legacy of Timely Excellence
SMPP first developed ballistic-grade boron carbide plates in 2008 using in-house technology and has since been a regular supplier to both Indian and global forces. The company delivered one of India’s largest orders—over 1.86 lakh bullet-resistant jackets in 2018—well ahead of schedule.
Specialised products such as ballistic shields that stop armor-piercing rounds and helmets tailored for Sikh soldiers further demonstrate the company’s commitment to innovation and inclusivity. The Indian government’s thrust on indigenous defence production has opened new avenues for companies like SMPP. With its advanced R&D, cutting-edge production facility in Palwal (Haryana), and globally certified products, SMPP continues to push the boundaries of what Indian defence manufacturing can achieve.
Founded in 1985, SMPP entered the defence sector in 1992 in collaboration with DRDO for developing combustible cartridge cases. Over the decades, it has emerged as a leading name in personal protection, ammunition components, and protective kits for land, sea, and air defence platforms. Notably, it is the only company globally with a patented helmet band that enhances protection against AK-47 steel core bullets.
