Surat-based Man-Made Textiles Research Association (MANTRA) has been selected by the Indian Air Force (IAF) to carry out scientific testing of fabric used in digital pattern jackets and trousers. The development marks an important milestone for Surat's growing technical textiles sector.

The Indian Air Force has invited MANTRA to submit its budget quotation and laboratory testing details for evaluating the fabric in accordance with national and international quality standards.

The testing programme will assess several performance parameters, including fabric composition, yarn count, GSM, tensile strength, pilling resistance, drape coefficient, dimensional stability, colour fastness, air permeability, antibacterial activity and other quality indicators. Several of these tests will be conducted under NABL accreditation to ensure reliable and recognised testing standards.

MANTRA Director Dr. Pankaj Gandhi said the institute's selection reflects its advanced textile testing capabilities and further strengthens Surat's position in India's defence and technical textiles industry.

He added that the project could create new opportunities in the research, testing and manufacturing of defence textiles, including protective clothing, combat uniforms, ballistic fabrics and other high-performance technical textile products.