DRDO transfers special steel tech to Jindal Stainless

The Army’s quest for lighter and high performance armouring material has seen the Modi government usher in a policy to involve private firms in defence sector.

Hyderabad-based Defence Metallurgical Research Laboratory (DMRL) on Wednesday signed the licensing agreement with Jindal Stainless (Hisar) (JSHL) for making special armour using technology developed by it.

DMRL is  a premier research laboratory of the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO). Known as high nitrogen steel (HNS) for armour applications, it is not only tough but also has good strength. In addition to being non magnetic as well as corrosion resistant, HNS cost is about 40% less compared to Rolled Homogenous Armour Steel (RHA), said Minister of State for Defence, Dr Subhash Bhamre.

The HNS has cleared multiple levels of ballistic tests in different calibers. He said the HNS technology has also the potential for a number of civilian applications and for exports as well, which could be major step towards achieving ‘Make in India’ goal.  extensively in their products.

DRDO chairman S Christopher said that the transfer of technology is to foster conducive environment for the industry’s potential growth in the strategic sectors.

“We are looking at production of 15,000 to 20,000 tonnes of HNS per annum initially which will be increased gradually. It will be going to be priced 30-40% cheaper than the imported material,” JSHL Vice Chairman Abhyuday Jindal said.

HNS exhibits higher energy absorption level, enhances crash worthiness to the entire artillery system and has significantly higher impact values with a far superior material for blast protection.
DHNS and Agencies