Graphene-based Fabrics for Defence Applications: Opportunities, Challenges, and Future Directions

Abstract

Graphene’s exceptional electrical, mechanical, thermal and optoelectronic properties make it a leading candidate for enabling next-generation smart textiles and wearable communication platforms tailored to defence and tactical applications. This study presents a comprehensive review of graphene-enabled smart fabrics with particular emphasis on fabrication methods, printed/laminated wearable antennas, integrated energy harvesting and storage, and electromagnetic interference (EMI) mitigation relevant to battlefield use. Recent advances in scalable graphene inks and screen-printing methods, as well as hybrid grapheme metal composites that improve conductivity, are summarized and compared. Progress in graphene-based wearable antennas and textile integration demonstrates promising performance in body-centric communications, while graphene-based EMI shielding and functionalized graphene fiber offer routes for enhanced survivability against electronic warfare and harsh environmental conditions. Key technical challenges, such as conductivity at high frequencies, durability under repeated washing and abrasion, large-scale manufacturability, and standards for defence-grade testing, are critically examined. Finally, identify research gaps and propose a roadmap for transitioning graphene smart fabrics from laboratory prototypes to field-deployable defence systems, including integration with 5G/6G, LiFi, and AI-driven internet of battlefield things (IoBT) architectures.