Indian Army secures IPR for new design combat coat
New Delhi, November 19
Following the unveiling of the New Combat Uniform (Digital Print), the Indian Army introduced the New Coat Combat (Digital Print) in January 2025, marking another milestone in its ongoing journey towards modernisation, indigenisation, and enhanced soldier comfort.
The New Coat Combat has been designed and developed by the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), New Delhi, as a consultancy project under the aegis of the Army Design Bureau.
The three-layered garment incorporates advanced technical textiles and features an ergonomic design that enhances comfort, mobility, and operational efficiency across diverse climatic and tactical conditions.
The Indian Army has successfully registered the design of the New Coat Combat (Digital Print) with the Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trademarks, Kolkata, under Design Application No. 449667-001, dated February 27, 2025, and published in the Official Journal of the Patent Office on October 7, 2025.
With this registration, the exclusive Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) for both the design and camouflage pattern rest solely with the Indian Army. The registration establishes the Army's sole ownership and legal protection against unauthorised manufacturing, reproduction, or commercial use by any non-authorised entity.
Any infringement of these rights will attract legal consequences, including injunctions and claims for damages, as per the provisions of the Designs Act, 2000, the Designs Rules, 2001, and the Patents Act, 1970.
The New Coat Combat ensemble includes an outer, an inner, and a thermal layer.
"The outer layer is a digitally printed camouflage coat designed for operational durability and concealment in varied terrains. Inner Jacket: Insulated mid-layer using lightweight, breathable materials providing warmth without restricting movement. Thermal Layer: Base layer ensuring optimal thermal regulation and moisture control in extreme weather," an official release issued by the Ministry of Defence said.
These garments together represent a leap forward in the integration of combat functionality with comfort and protection, reinforcing the Army's commitment to continuous transformation and soldier welfare.
This IPR registration underscores the Indian Army's increasing emphasis on innovation, design protection and self-reliance in defence clothing systems, aligning with the vision of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' and the Army's 'Decade of Transformation (2023-2032)'.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Great step towards Atmanirbhar Bharat! The three-layer design with thermal regulation sounds perfect for our soldiers serving in extreme conditions from Siachen to Rajasthan deserts. ðŸ‘
While I appreciate the innovation, I hope the cost-effectiveness is maintained. Defence budget should be optimized, especially when we're developing indigenous solutions.
Impressive to see India taking IP protection seriously in defence. The digital camouflage pattern registration will prevent copycats. Smart move!
The ergonomic design focus is much needed. Our soldiers deserve the best equipment that doesn't compromise their mobility during operations. Well done Army Design Bureau!
Finally seeing our institutions working together - Army Design Bureau and NIFT. This is what true indigenization looks like. Hope to see more such collaborations! 🙌
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