The army is looking for new technologies to transform the way soldiers wear and use their equipment. These include lightweight protective body armor and undergarments, newer uniform fabrics, conformal wearable computers, integrated sensors powered by emerging battery technologies -- all part of a major scientific initiative aimed at shaping, enhancing and sustaining the soldier of the future.
Non newtonian fluid bulletproof
Scientists and engineers have created a new technique to create lighter armor and military protection materials. Double layering graphene is a nanomaterial which is both flexible and tough like diamond.
After the graphene layers were completed, a fluid called nonnewtonian shear thickening oil was added. When a bullet struck the fluid, it changed from flowing into a rigid state within milliseconds.
To increase the strength of the fibers and protect the skin against a variety weapons, shear thickening liquid is used in bulletproof helmets. It has been shown to increase resistance against a variety of projectiles including explosives and ballistic rounds.
Besides improving the armor's ability to resist bullets, the fluid can also be applied to pants and sleeves of a uniform to make it less likely that a wearer will develop painful rips or stains. The fluid can be used on the fabric of an outfit to improve its elasticity and stretch.
The technology of the soldier that informs, protects and protects
With a drop-down display embedded in the helmet, the soldier of tomorrow will be able to access all information quickly. It can display maps and live video from forward-positioned satellites, aircraft, or scout teams. It will allow soldiers to communicate directly with their units without the use of a radio or an earpiece.
Digital water bottle
It's also important to ensure that Soldier of the Future are well-hydrated and have easy access to their supplies. One of these innovations is the "digital water bottle", which can be used to track how much water and other fluids each squad has on hand for any given mission.
Drones powered by soldiers
The army is currently working to integrate small unmanned aerial systems and robotic platoon vehicle into their force in order to augment the soldier. To aid in combat operations, these vehicles will be outfitted with sensors, effectors, and a camera.
According to Jean-Louis DeGay (equipment specialist for Future Force Warrior), robots powered by soldiers are an important part of the Army's future. Robots will allow soldiers to move around on the battlefield without them having to stand. This will reduce fatigue and help the warriors to carry less weight.
It's lightweight, portable, and easily adaptable to changing the threat level or mission at hand
The army has been rethinking how it designs its weaponry since the Afghanistan war, and one of its biggest concerns is weight. Due to the increased burden of modern military equipment on soldiers it is becoming more difficult to be healthy and do their jobs well. A new generation armor can adapt to a variety of threats and missions. It also allows for mobility.