The Indian Army has secured exclusive Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) for its newly developed Coat Combat (Digital Print), further strengthening its modernisation and indigenisation drive. The new combat coat, unveiled in January 2025, is part of the Army’s continued efforts to enhance soldier comfort, operational efficiency, and technological self-reliance.
Designed by the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), New Delhi, under a consultancy project of the Army Design Bureau, the three-layered garment uses advanced technical textiles and features an ergonomic design suited for diverse terrains and climatic conditions. The coat is intended to improve mobility, durability, and overall performance during operations.
According to the Army, the design has been officially registered with the Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trademarks, Kolkata, under Design Application No. 449667-001, dated February 27, 2025. The registration was published in the Official Journal of the Patent Office on October 7, 2025.
With this registration, the Army now holds exclusive rights to both the design and the digital camouflage pattern. The IPR protection prevents any unauthorised manufacturing, reproduction, or commercial use by external entities. Violations will invite legal action under the Designs Act, 2000, Designs Rules, 2001, and the Patents Act, 1970, including injunctions and claims for damages.
The new Coat Combat ensemble comprises three integrated layers:
* Outer Layer: A digitally printed camouflage coat offering durability and effective concealment across varied terrains.
* Inner Jacket: A lightweight, insulated mid-layer designed to provide warmth without limiting movement.
* Thermal Layer: A base layer engineered for thermal regulation and moisture control in extreme conditions.
The Army stated that the layered system represents a significant advancement in combat apparel, merging functionality with enhanced protection and comfort.
The Ministry of Defence said that the IPR registration reflects the Army’s growing focus on innovation, design protection, and indigenous development in defence clothing systems. The initiative aligns with the vision of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ and supports the Army’s ‘Decade of Transformation (2023–2032)’.