Northern Ireland’s 3D Printing Body Armour Startup, Vikela, Plans Expansion with 30 New High-Skilled Jobs
Northern Ireland-based body armour startup Vikela, employing under 10 individuals, is expanding and aims to create up to 30 highly skilled jobs. The company, led by mechanical engineer Peter Gilleece, recently secured £26,000 in funding after winning Invent 2022, a startup competition in Northern Ireland. Vikela specialises in 3D-printed body armour, specifically its Apis stab protection product. Unlike traditional ceramic plate manufacturing methods, 3D printing offers a more efficient and sustainable approach. Gilleece is currently seeking investors to bolster manufacturing capabilities and support the company’s expansion plans.
He emphasised Vikela’s commitment to surpassing existing testing standards to provide enhanced protection, as Kevlar-made bulletproof vests are inherently bullet-resistant and graded according to international ballistic resistance standards. Gilleece sees potential for Vikela’s innovations in the global defence sector, aligning not only with improved user protection but also with sustainability goals. The company is dedicated to creating high-skilled jobs in Northern Ireland as it continues to grow and broaden its product range, known as Tyrella, which will include various ballistic protective products. In the long term, Vikela aspires to enter the realms of motor vehicle parts and sports protective gear.
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