- Protecting Protectors: SMPP gets Emergency Contract for Bulletproof Jackets and Helmets
New Delhi. 01 July 2025. In a significant push to bolster frontline troop protection, SMPP Pvt. Ltd., one of India’s leading indigenous defence manufacturers, has secured twin contracts from the Indian Army under the Emergency Procurement Procedure 5 (EP-5). Valued at over ₹300 crore, the contracts, awarded on June 22, 2025, include the supply of 27,700 bulletproof jackets and 11,700 advanced ballistic helmets, marking another milestone in India’s path to self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
The urgency of modernising personal protection gear was amplified in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor, where Indian armed forces launched precision strikes across the Line of Control in response to the Pahalgam terror attacks. The operation highlighted the growing need for high-mobility, high-protection gear that enables troops to operate effectively in hostile terrain and against advanced threats. The Ministry of Defence responded with Emergency Procurement Procedure 5 (EP-5), enabling swift acquisitions of mission-critical equipment. SMPP’s new contracts under this mechanism reiterate the Indian Army’s intent to arm soldiers with cutting-edge protection that meets global standards.
Speaking on the new contract win, Dr. Shiv Chand Kansal, an Ex-IITian, Chairman and Managing Director of the company, stated that “We conduct our business with the motto to “protect those who protect us” and a vision to lead the way in equipping armed forces with advanced technological solutions. Thus, with this new contract, SMPP has once again shown beyond doubt to be better than the best and true to its motto.
The Bulletproof Jackets come with advanced features like dynamic load distribution and quick release system which increase the operational efficiency by enhancing soldier comfort while offering protection against the most lethal armor piercing bullets. The Advanced Ballistic helmet is world’s first helmet which provides protection from AK-47 fired lethal Hard Steel Core ammunition.
Speaking on the continual success of SMPP, Ashish Kansal, also an Ex-IITian, Director & CEO of the company, stated that “SMPP has been leading the personal protection market in India with more than 90% market share (as per 1Lattice report) owing to its immense focus on R&D with over 17 patents filed and 10 patents granted. This obsession with research ensures constant upgradation of product to meet the evolving needs of our soldiers”.
SMPP has a manufacturing facility for personal protection products at Palwal (Haryana) and made its first ballistic grade boron carbide plate in 2008 with its in-house developed technology. The testament to the technology is the continuous order from a global aircraft manufacturer since 2014.
From one of the largest orders of 186,138 bullet-resistant jackets of Level III and III+ protection for the Indian Army in 2018 which was delivered not just on time but well before the scheduled delivery date, SMPP has come a long way in supplying protective gear to our soldiers including specialist products like Ballistic Helmets for Sikh Soldiers and Ballistic Shields which stop Armor Piercing bullets.
The Indian defence manufacturing sector is witnessing an unprecedented transformation, fueled by government’s dynamic initiatives. As the demand for Indigenous defence solutions grows, local manufacturers are stepping up to meet the needs of the Indian Armed Forces and beyond. Among these, SMPP Limited has carved a unique niche for itself by emerging as a major contributor in enabling India to achieve self reliance in Defence production through its outstanding quality and yet competitive pricing capabilities. As India surges ahead in its Atmanirbhar Bharat journey, SMPP is playing a pivotal role in not only safeguarding lives on the battlefield but also building a globally competitive defence manufacturing ecosystem.
