The army is working on new technologies that will transform how the soldier in the future uses and navigates his 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
A team of engineers and scientists created a method that could be used to develop lighter materials for military protection and armor. 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.
It is used in some helmets and bulletproof vests to strengthen the fibers, and protect the skin from a variety if weapons. It's been proven to provide increased resistance against a wide range of projectiles, including ballistic rounds and explosives.
The fluid can be used to improve armor's resistance to bullets. It can also be used to treat uniform sleeves and pants to reduce the chance of someone getting ripped or stained. It can also be used to increase the fabric's elasticity and stretch so that it doesn’t feel too tight.
Soldier technology that informs and protects
A drop-down screen embedded within the helmet will allow the soldier of the future to quickly access information. It can display real-time video and maps from a satellite, forward-positioned scout group, or aircraft. It will enable soldiers to communicate with their unit while wearing armour.
Digital water bottle
The battle for the Soldier of the Future is also about making sure they're hydrated and that their supplies are easily accessible. 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
In order to support soldiers, the army plans on integrating robot platoon cars and small unmanned aircraft systems into its force. These will be equipped with sensors, effectors and a camera to better assist in combat operations.
Jean-Louis "Dutch," a Future Force Warrior programme equipment specialist, said that robots powered by soldiers are a major part of the Army's future. The robots can move around the battlefield with no need for soldiers to stand, which will help warriors reduce fatigue and their burden.
It's lightweight, portable, and easily adaptable to changing the threat level or mission at hand
The Army has been considering how it makes its weapons since the Afghanistan War. It's becoming more difficult for soldiers to remain healthy and be able to perform their duties well, due to the weight of modern military equipment. The solution to this issue is a new generation of armor that can be adjusted to a range of different threats and missions, while at the same time allowing them to remain mobile.