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Taking another significant step in its modernisation and indigenisation drive, the Indian Army has secured exclusive Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) for its newly developed Coat Combat (Digital Print). The registration comes months after the Army unveiled its upgraded digital-print combat uniform and represents a significant advance in soldier-centric design and protection.
The New Coat Combat, introduced in January 2025, has been designed by the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), New Delhi, under a consultancy project steered by the Army Design Bureau. The three-layered garment makes extensive use of advanced technical textiles and features an ergonomic construction aimed at improving comfort, mobility, and operational efficiency across varied terrains and climatic conditions.
According to official information, the design has been registered with the Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trademarks, Kolkata, under Design Application No. 449667-001, dated 27 February 2025, and published in the Official Journal of the Patent Office on 7 October 2025.
With the registration now in force, the Indian Army holds exclusive ownership of both the design and the camouflage pattern, granting it full legal authority to prevent any unauthorised manufacturing, reproduction, or commercial use. Violations will invite legal action under the Designs Act, 2000, Designs Rules, 2001, and relevant provisions of the Patents Act, 1970, including injunctions and claims for damages.
A Three-Layered Leap in Combat Apparel
The New Coat Combat ensemble comprises:
- Outer Layer: A digitally printed camouflage coat engineered for enhanced durability, concealment, and operational performance.
- Inner Jacket: An insulated, lightweight mid-layer crafted to provide warmth while allowing a full range of movement.
- Thermal Layer: A moisture-regulating base layer designed for optimal heat retention in extreme weather.
Together, these components reflect a significant evolution in the Army’s approach to combat clothing, balancing protection, functionality, and soldier comfort.
Part of a Broader Transformation
The Army’s move to secure IPR for the combat coat highlights its growing emphasis on design innovation, legal protection, and self-reliance in defence textiles. It aligns with the national vision of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ and the Army’s ‘Decade of Transformation (2023–2032)’, which places strong focus on modernising soldier systems.
With the new combat coat now protected under Indian law, the Army reinforces its commitment to safeguarding indigenous designs while equipping soldiers with more advanced, combat-ready gear.
Team BharatShakti
