The Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) on Tuesday handed over technology for the development of the extreme cold winter clothing system (ECWCS) to five Indian companies.
M/s RHD Business Services India Pvt., based in Delhi, is one of the firms. Ltd. and SBNX Innovation (OPC) Pvt. M/s Shiva Texyarn Limited in Coimbatore, M/s Kusumgar Corporates Pvt. Ltd in Mumbai, and M/s Ginni Filaments Limited in Mathura.
Defense Institute of Physiology and Allied Sciences (DIPAS) of DRDO developed the technology and it is of particular importance at a time when India is locked in a military standoff with China at the Line of Actual Control-and military personnel continue to be stationed in eastern Ladakh during the peak winter months when temperatures dip to around minus 30 degrees Celsius.
Extreme cold weather clothing systems are ergonomically designed, modular in nature, and comprise three layers that weigh less than 4.5 kg, even for the largest sizes.
A vest and a pair of trousers form the inner layer, which is insulating and wicks away sweat from the body, while the outer layer consists of a jacket and trousers, which provide maximum insulation as well as water resistance.
A camouflage-printed insulated waterproof layer provides wind chill protection and is reversible.
A three-layer clothing system was used for temperatures as low as minus 50 degrees Celsius.
When extreme cold and blizzards occur, the design provides protection to the face.
