I don't know if the pangolin inspired the creation of scale armor at some place and time within the world.

However, I can tell you that scale armor did appear in regions that are outside the habitat of pangolins. Scale armor is probably the earliest metallic type of armor, and it can be dated back to the 17th century BC starting with the Hurrians. It was used by the ancient Egyptians, Scythians, Greeks, Romans, etc.

However, I know that there is a known example of pangolin scales being used to create scale armor! Seen here, it dates to the early 19th century in Northern India. Note that each scale was gilded and decorated elaborately. It likely was ceremonial, especially since it was given as a gift to King George III.