The Future Force Warrior (USA military) is an advanced technology demonstrator project. The project's goal is to create a fully integrated infantry combat platform. The system includes a headgear, a body armor, sensors, and a communication system. The system will help soldiers survive in dangerous terrain.
Soldier Digitization subsystem
Future force warrior program will make use of revolutionary technologies such as nanotechnology, powered excoskeletons, magnetic-resistance fluid based body armor, and powered exoskeletons. This concept is not meant to cover all possible scenarios, but to encourage a discussion about the potential of these technologies.
Integrated headgear system
Army Future Force Warrior Program will develop a new integrated system of headgear for ground troops. The system will improve protection against blasts and bullets, while also reducing weight. This system will also allow soldiers to communicate without the need for an external microphone.
Power subsystem
The Future Force Warrior power system can reduce the combat soldier's weight by significantly reducing their size. A typical OFW power subsystem weighs approximately two pounds and can provide twelve W of power. The OFW system is comparable in power requirements to an MBITR radio using LW-SI.
Displays
The Army is currently developing new technology and displays as part of Future Force Warrior. These technologies are based on advances in lightweight ballistic materials, electronics and displays. This technology is also being developed using human factors information gathered from government laboratories. This was discussed in a panel discussion held by the Association of United States Army (USA) on July 24th.
Sensors
Future Force Warriors are equipped with unattended tactical devices to perform networked gunfire and provide situational information. To achieve this, a communications infrastructure infrastructure must be established to collect and disseminate data from the sensors. Specifically, the network should provide a user with real-time situational awareness information.
Ballistic materials of light weight
The armor needed to protect the future force warriors must be durable and lightweight. The Army Research Lab has started developing new armor materials that can withstand 64% more impacts than traditional steel armor. The armor is also eight times lighter. Laboratory experiments at the Army Research Laboratory in Buffalo have been conducted to help make this armor.