First Defence Export of Ordnance Clothing | 31 Jan 2025
The Ordnance Clothing Factory (OCF), Avadi, under the Ministry of Defence, executed India's first defence export order to the Republic of Suriname.
- OCF is developing a "Future Soldier System" that includes lightweight, digitally printed, antibacterial camouflage uniforms and ballistic helmets (0.9 kg) to enhance soldier mobility.
- OCF Avadi manufactures bullet-resistant jackets, ballistic helmets, vests, and bomb suppression blankets.
- India's defence exports rose to over Rs 21,000 crore in 2023-24, up from Rs 2,000 crore in 2014 with a target of Rs 50,000 crore by 2029.
- Suriname: It lies on the northeastern coast of South America and borders Guyana, French Guiana, and Brazil.
- During the colonial period, Indians arrived in Suriname as indentured labor to work on sugar plantations.
Read More: 2nd India-CARICOM Summit