With the rise of new technology, it seems to permeate in every industry imaginable. The military has experienced serious breakthroughs by using newly developed military technology and the years that follow shows that there is room for more improvement. The Pentagon and DARPA are already experimenting with virtual and augmented reality technology, developing new aircraft and vehicles, and expanding their robotics and hypersonic products. There are many more exciting developments in store and as technology continues to develop and grow, who knows what the future might hold for the military?
Augmented reality headsets
The Army recently involved Microsoft in their training when they signed a contract with the company for 100,000 HoloLens headsets. The units totaled in $479 million and should reach combat units within the next year. The Army does not have a set idea of what it will be used for but the idea is to give infantrymen and other troops a pair of heads-up displays. Tankers could also use them to see through their armor to better track enemy vehicles. The Army has researched AR before so a lot of groundwork has already been done. This will make it easier to find a function for the HoloLens.
Robots joining human squads
This might sound a bit like a Hollywood film but the Army is planning on adding robots to infantry squads and other maneuvering units to carry gear, sensors, and electronic warfare modules. This forms part of the DARPA Squad X Experimentation Program and the idea is to nest robots into Army and Marine units. Test runs have already begun and the system brings in all types of capabilities from robots that are already available on the market. The Marines were able to detect enemies and plan their assault before the enemies knew of their presence.
Faster U.S hypersonic missiles
Hypersonic missiles are the ultimate weapon for striking first. They are five times faster than the speed of sound which makes it almost impossible for ballistic missile interceptors to catch them. At the moment, it would seem as if Russia and China are further along than the U.S but DARPA is planning on changing that. There has been a call for new materials that can withstand forces at Mach 5, especially the extreme heat generated from friction whilst flying through the air. This would allow the U.S to surpass its rivals in no time.
The SB-1 Defiant and V-280 Valor will be shown off
The Army wants to replace Black Hawks to start a new family of vertical-lift aircraft. The top two prototypes are being tested at the moment with the SB-1 Defiant reaching speeds of 290 mph in flight. The V-280 Valor, on the other hand, is said to have a tilt-rotor that will offer even more skills.
Light tank prototypes will be unveiled
Over the next 14 months, 12 light tanks will be produced and as soon as they roll off the line, the Army will begin testing them. Once the Army puts them through their paces in 2020, they will choose the best one.
May 24, 2019
