Steel containing 0.65wt % nitrogen has been investigated for armour applications by subjecting it to different percentages of hot rolling. The effect of percentage reduction during hot rolling on microstructures, mechanical properties and ballistic performance has been studied. The ballistic performance of 6.5mm, 7.5mm thick plates against 7.62 ball and 16mm, 17mm thickness against 7.62AP projectiles were assessed. The nature of damage has been studied by varying percentage reduction during hot rolling of these plates for providing full protection.