Kevlar/epoxy composite laminates are subjected to impact loading and the energy absorbing capacity of the laminates is studied. In the present study, laminates with four different orientations and thickness values are considered. It is found that cross-ply laminates are most efficient in ballistic resistance when compared with the laminates of other orientations. It is also noticed that the energy absorbing capacity is decreasing with increase in velocity of the projectile for a given lay-up and thickness value. © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.