In a significant stride towards enhancing soldier safety, the Indian Army has intensified its focus on countering the persistent threat posed by AK-47 rifles. Amid rising security challenges, the spotlight is on MKU Limited, an eminent Indian defence equipment manufacturer, which has globally unveiled an innovative AK-47 rifle protection helmet at Milipol Paris. This development marks a notable advancement in military technology, reinforcing India’s stature in the international defence arena.
The quest for effective protection against AK-47 bullets has been a long-standing priority for India’s armed forces. This was particularly evident in the early 1990s during counterinsurgency operations in Jammu and Kashmir. The troops, equipped with Model 1974 fiberglass helmets, found them inadequate against the AK-47 rounds. This led to the development of the ‘bulletproof patka’ helmet by Major General V.K. Datta, offering some degree of protection but with limitations.
Over the years, high-profile security incidents, like the 26/11 Mumbai attacks and the 2016 Uri attack, have underscored the urgent need for superior protective gear against AK-47 rounds. These incidents have revealed vulnerabilities in the existing equipment, primarily designed for 9mm threats, thus highlighting the gap in India’s defence preparedness.
Addressing this gap, the Indian Army in 2018 placed a significant order for 158,000 ballistic helmets from MKU Limited. While these helmets were primarily intended for 9mm handgun protection, the escalating use of AK-47 rifles by militants revealed their limitations. This led to the development of a modular ceramic plate as an interim solution, but the need for a more robust and sustainable solution was evident.
MKU’s breakthrough in AK-47 rifle protection technology is the result of a rigorous five-year research and development endeavor. The unveiling of their AK-47 rifle protection helmet at Milipol Paris, a prominent global exhibition for Defence and Homeland Security, represents a landmark in defence technology. This helmet, capable of withstanding up to five shots from an AK-47, sets a new benchmark in soldier safety and positions India as a key player in the global defence sector.
The defence industry has been abuzz with the unveiling of MKU’s Kavro Doma 360, which is expected to soon equip defence and paramilitary units in India and internationally. This development not only enhances the safety of military personnel but also signifies India’s growing influence and capabilities in the global defence industry.