Army is exploring new technologies that will change how soldiers of the future use and wear their equipment. These technologies include lightweight protective undergarments, newer uniform fabrics and conformal wearable computers. They are all part of an important scientific initiative that aims to shape, enhance and sustain the soldier of the future.
Non newtonian fluid bulletproof
Scientists and engineers developed a technique for lighter armor and protection for the military in a lab study. The material was created by double layering graphene (a nanomaterial that is flexible but hard like diamond), by the researchers.
After graphene had been layered, a non-newtonian shear thickening liquid was added. In milliseconds, the fluid changed from flowing to rigidity when a bullet was fired at it.
Bulletproof helmets and bulletproof vests include shear thickening fluid. This is to strengthen the fibers of the skin and protect it from a range of weapons. It is known to provide greater resistance to a wide array of projectiles such as explosives and ballistic shots.
The fluid can be applied to the arms and legs of uniforms to improve their resistance to bullets. The fluid can be used to give an outfit more elasticity and stretch. It won't feel too tight.
Soldier technology that informs or protects
Through a drop-down screen embedded into the helmet, the soldier in the future will have quick access to all the information they need. It can display maps as well as real-time video from satellites, aircrafts or forward-positioned 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 is important that Soldiers of the Future stay hydrated, and that they have access to all their supplies. Among the innovations is the 'digital water bottle', a new system that can keep track of the amount of water and other fluids a squad has - or will have - on hand in any given mission.
Drones powered from 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. These vehicles will be equipped to assist combat operations by being equipped with sensors and effectors as well as 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. The robots will move about the battlefield without the need to lift a soldier, which reduces fatigue and helps the soldiers carry less.
Lightweight, adaptable, and flexible to change the mission or threat level at hand
Since the Afghanistan war ended, the army has been looking at how to design its weaponry. Weight is one of their biggest concerns. Due to the increased burden of modern military equipment on soldiers it is becoming more difficult to be healthy and do their jobs well. This problem can be solved by a new type of armor that is flexible enough to adapt to various threats and missions while still allowing soldiers to move.