Super Soldier - The Future of War: U.S. Military tests high tech devices for war

Some items make soldiers 'indestructable'

Science fiction seems to be not far from reality nowadays, as technology begins building amazing things, even the ability of super powers. The U.S. Military, for example, has been in pursuit of technology that allows them to protect soldier lives, while getting the job done the fastest and easiest way possible. From Virtual Reality (VR) simulations to bullets that never miss a hit, military weaponry is becoming one of the most advanced fields in the world.

MUNTINLUPA, PHILIPPINES (Catholic Online) - Virtual reality is really not that far away, considering Facebook's acquired Oculus Rift is all over the news. For the military, they are developing a more realistic battle simulation, with VRs alongside customizable personal avatars of each soldier, which they can adjust based on their own skills and abilities. The U.S. Defense aims to provide each department with their own.

Exoskeletons are also always present in science fiction, enabling the body to upgrade power. Although early exoskeletons tests failed, the idea is being pursued again. Hulc, developed by Ekso Bionics, is a lower extremity exoskeleton that works in redistributing weight across hips and legs.

"Distributing and managing a soldier's load can give enormous benefits in terms of combat endurance and efficiency," said military sciences analyst Justin Bronk.

Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is testing a soft exosuit worn under the soldier's uniform, which will provide support on joints and legs, preventing injuries. This smart wetsuit called Warrior Web only needs 100 watts and uses computer-operated textiles and wires that give orthopedic support.

With a "magic" liquid component, Shear-Thickening Fluid (STF), an experiment on a liquid armor that can "heal" itself is being conducted by Moratex, a Polish company. The idea is very prevalent on science fiction stories, which can withstand even high-speed projectile penetrations. Through ongoing research, they are now able to harden the material while staying flexible enough for free-movements with the use of nanotechnology.

The U.S. Military has also tested a guided bullet that chases down targets to ensure it does not miss. Exacto, the .05-caliber sniper round, changes its path and was successful in hitting targets, but it still has to withstand other elements like strong winds. Sensors are being developed which will ultimately help soldiers navigate and operate easier and lighter, similar to having superpowers.

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