How many of my readers have seen the movie “Iron Man”? That super hero that does not have super powers just a fantastic suit that flies and carries weapons…..very cool to us geeks.
What a dream right?
Maybe not so much a dream as close to reality……say what?
Despite recent reports that Special Operations Command missed the initial deadline to deliver a prototype for the high-profile tactical assault light operator suit, command leadership is confident that it will test a powered exoskeleton by summer 2019, officials said this week.
Five years ago, then-SOCOM Commander Adm. William McRaven set a five-year deadline to develop a working prototype for a suit that would offer greater protection to operators while providing greater mobility and speed in a lighter frame. It is intended for the first commando to enter a room during a raid. Operators kicking down doors are particularly vulnerable to small arms fire and bomb blasts. The death of a special operator in such a screnario inspired McRaven to start the program in 2013.
If this will save lives while helping the mission to be a success then I am all for it…..the problem with it for me is that it may make entering into more conflict attractive….few dead, fewer to protest war.
Making war safer….one weapon at a time.
Any thoughts my friend?
I haven’t seen the film, but I get the idea. Something like a flying ‘Robocop’. No doubt it will happen, one day. 🙂
Best wishes, Pete.
They say the first models will be out in 2020….chuq