Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. 06 May 2024. MKU Limited, a global defence and homeland security company, is continuing to achieve new heights with its Kavro Platform Protection Solutions. With decades of experience in platform protection, MKU has established itself as a trusted provider of aircraft armouring.
UNMATCHED EXPERTISE IN AIRCRAFT ARMOURING
MKU’s Kavro Platform Protection offers smart and modular solutions specifically designed for each platform’s needs, these systems utilize precision-engineered composite armour panels that seamlessly integrate with the aircraft using MKU’s patented aero-grade attachment systems. They integrate flawlessly without compromising the aircraft’s performance. The modular panels are designed for easy retrofitting, requiring no structural modifications and maintaining optimal aerodynamics. This ensures optimal performance while maximizing protection.
With over fifteen years of expertise, MKU has provided ballistic protection solutions to aircrafts like Bell UH-1/212 Huey, Euro copter BO-105, Sikorsky CH-53, Euro copter Puma/Super-Puma/Cougar, MI-8 / MI-17 and Black Hawk UH 60. Their wide range of solutions include Pilot Seat Protection, Floor Protection, Side Protection, Chin Bubble Protection and Gunner Port Protection.
With an unwavering commitment to safety and security, MKU’s Kavro Platform Protection Solutions offers unparalleled protection against a wide range of ammunition threats, including small handguns, assault rifles, armour-piercing ammunition, fragments, and heavy machine guns. These solutions conform to rigorous threat standards, such as NIJ 0108.01, EN 1522, STANAG 4569, VPAM BSW 2006, and others, guaranteeing the highest level of safety for both aircraft and occupants.
Acquiring AST GmbH, a German corporation, has played a key role in MKU’s venture into Platform Protection Solutions in 2008. MKU Limited has armoured over 3000 platforms to date, securing trust and confidence.
REACHING NEW HEIGHTS IN THE PLATFORM ARMOURING DOMAIN
In the past five years, MKU has undertaken major aircraft armouring projects from across the world.
- Recent Projects in India
MKU is currently engaged in the armouring of seven MI 17 VIP helicopters for Air Headquarters. This project underscores MKU’s commitment to the highest quality standards, evident by securing the prestigious Cemilac certificate – a benchmark for international excellence in helicopter armouring.
MKU is also under production for 200 units of Aviation Night Vision Goggles (ANVGs) for both MI 17 and Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) for Air Headquarters. This project equips the Indian Air Force with advanced night vision capabilities, enabling effective operations during low-light conditions. The company has supplied 10,000 ballistic helmets for the Provost Marshal of the Indian Air Force.
MKU’s expertise has been recognized by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), which has awarded the company design and development projects for Aviation Night Vision Goggles for Light Utility Helicopters. The landmark ToT marks a major milestone in MKU’s unwavering commitment to the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative. With this agreement, MKU aims to reduce dependency on imports and contribute to the growth of the defence and aerospace industry in India.
Demonstrating its innovative technology, MKU has designed and developed a specialized Kevlar curtain for the Advanced Light Helicopter for 3 BRD, Chandigarh. Awarded as a 5-year Framework Rate Contract, this project signifies MKU’s dedication to continuous improvement. The initial production run includes 1 development unit and 20 serial production units.
- A Global Track Record in Helicopter Armouring
Beyond domestic projects, MKU has a proven track record in helicopter armouring solutions for various countries, including:
- CH-53, MK41 Sea King, UH-1D and MK-88 Armouring for Germany
- MI-17 Cockpit Armouring for Czech Republic
- Super Puma Armouring for Switzerland
- MI-17, UH 60 (Black Hawk) Armouring for Mexico
- CH-47, UH 60 (Black Hawk) Armouring East Asia
- AW139, EC225, S-76D Armouring for Japan
COMMITMENT TO QUALITY
MKU maintains a robust quality management system, evident by its CEMILAC certification for armouring MI-17 helicopters. The company fosters close collaboration with end-users and production agencies to provide indigenous electro-optic and armouring solutions for both new production and upgrade programs of existing airborne platforms.
MKU’s dedication to innovation, quality, and ‘Make in India’ initiatives positions the company as a key player in strengthening India’s defence capabilities.
STRENGTHENING DEFENCE THROUGH MAKE IN INDIA
The order of Aviation Night Vision Goggles acquired by MKU from both HAL and the Air Force have been significant contributors to the ‘Make in India’ initiative. They hold immense significance under the Indian government’s vision of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’. These projects directly contribute to several goals: reducing reliance on imports, fostering domestic production and cost-effective solutions. Furthermore, by promoting private sector participation in defence manufacturing, these projects strengthen India’s defence capabilities and ensure long-term support for the armed forces without depending on foreign OEMs (original equipment manufacturers).
This prestigious order also paves the way for future exports of ANVGs from India. By establishing a domestic production line, India can potentially optimize costs through economies of scale and eliminate import markups. This cost advantage can make Indian-made ANVGs highly competitive in the international market.
Indigenously manufacturing ANVGs fosters domestic technological know-how and expertise in electro-optics systems. This technological capability is crucial for developing future generations of ANVGs and other advanced defence equipment, making India a potential exporter of such technologies.
MKU’s success in obtaining the CEMILAC certification for helicopter armouring demonstrates their commitment to quality. By indigenously producing ANVGs and meeting rigorous quality standards, India can build a reputation as a reliable supplier of defence equipment, opening doors for future exports.
