The Indian Army has officially secured exclusive Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) for its newly introduced Coat Combat (Digital Print) uniform — a major advancement in India’s push for military modernisation and indigenous design protection. The registration was granted by the Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trademarks, Kolkata, confirming the Army’s complete ownership of the uniform’s structure and digital camouflage pattern.
Unveiled in January 2025, the upgraded combat coat is part of the Army’s renewed focus on building high-performance, ergonomic, and climate-adaptive uniform systems that enhance soldier comfort and operational readiness across challenging terrains.
✔ Designed by NIFT, Backed by Army Design Bureau
The new combat coat has been developed by the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), New Delhi) under a specialised project guided by the Army Design Bureau. The uniform combines modern textile engineering, soldier feedback, and ergonomic research to create an outfit suited for today’s dynamic battlefields.
The design has been formally registered under:
Design Application No.: 449667-001
Date of Filing: 27 February 2025
Published in Patent Office Journal: 7 October 2025
With this registration, the Army gains full legal protection against unauthorised production, replication, or commercial use by any external entity. Violations will be subject to strict action under the Designs Act, 2000, Designs Rules, 2001, and Patents Act, 1970.
✔ What Makes the New Coat Combat System Advanced?
The combat ensemble features a three-layered design tailored for superior operational performance:
1️⃣ Outer Layer
- Digitally printed camouflage
- Enhanced durability
- Improves concealment across varied terrain
2️⃣ Inner Jacket
- Lightweight and breathable
- Provides warmth without restricting movement
3️⃣ Thermal Base Layer
- Moisture-wicking
- Offers thermal regulation in extreme climates
This design represents a shift toward scientifically engineered military textiles and ensures better comfort, protection, and mobility for soldiers deployed in demanding field environments.
✔ Supporting Atmanirbhar Bharat & Decade of Transformation (2023–2032)
The IPR registration aligns with India’s mission of self-reliance in defence manufacturing. By securing ownership of the design, the Army strengthens its control over production standards while preventing misuse or imitation by unauthorised manufacturers.
This milestone also supports the Army’s larger vision under its Decade of Transformation, ensuring that modernisation efforts extend beyond weapon systems to soldier-centric innovations like uniforms, gear, and protective equipment.
Conclusion
With the new IPR-protected Coat Combat (Digital Print), the Indian Army continues to push the boundaries of innovation, comfort, and battlefield readiness. The uniform is a strong testament to India’s growing capability in defence textiles, design technology, and indigenous development — reinforcing the nation’s long-term commitment to modern, self-reliant military systems.