The army is researching new technologies that could change the way the soldier of tomorrow wears and navigates equipment. This includes lightweight protective body armor, undergarments and newer uniform fabrics as well as integrated sensors powered with emerging battery technologies. All part of a major scientific effort aimed at creating, enhancing, and supporting the soldier of tomorrow.
Non newtonian fluid bulletproof
Scientists and engineers developed a technique for lighter armor and protection for the military in a lab study. The researchers created the material by double layering graphene - a nanomaterial with both flexibility and hardness that looks like diamond.
After graphene had been layered, a non-newtonian shear thickening liquid 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's been demonstrated to be resistant to a wide variety of projectiles, including explosives and ballistic round projectiles.
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. Fluid can be used to improve the fabric's flexibility and stretch, so it doesn’t feel tight.
Soldier technology that informs or protects
The soldier of the future will have access to information as quickly as possible, thanks to a drop-down screen embedded in the helmet. It can display real-time video and maps from a satellite, forward-positioned scout group, or aircraft. It can also be used to allow soldiers to communicate with each other while they are wearing armour.
Digital water bottle
It is essential that Soldier of the Future soldiers are properly hydrated and have readily accessible supplies. The 'digital water bottles' are one of the latest innovations. This system can track the amount of fluids and water a squad has or will have on any given mission.
Drones powered from soldiers
The army is looking to incorporate small unmanned aerial and robotic vehicles into their force in an effort to enhance the soldier. To better aid combat operations, they will be fitted with sensors, effectors, cameras and a microphone.
Jean-Louis DeGay, an equipment specialist in the Future Force Warrior program, says that soldier-powered robots are a key part of the Army’s future. Robots will enable soldiers to move about the battlefield while the robots do not need to be raised. This will aid in combat fatigue and reduce the soldier's burden.
Lightweight, adaptable, and flexible to change the mission or threat level at hand
Since the Afghanistan war, the army has been reviewing how it builds its weaponry. One of its greatest concerns is its weight. With the heavy load that modern military equipment places on a soldier, it's becoming increasingly difficult for them to stay healthy and able to 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.