Technology has enabled the military to evolve to what would’ve seemed nearly unthinkable a few decades ago. Robotics, cyber warfare, automated weaponry, stealth, and advanced warfare machines are some mentions of the biggest advances made possible by the application of revolutionary tech. Nowadays, military R&D involves military contractors, tech startups, engineers, and scientists that work to stay one step ahead of their opponents. Hang on as we explore the latest tech innovations in the military, their application, and some notable mentions that are still in the development phase.
Exoskeletons and Body Armour
These rugged suits are made from top-quality material that is capable of bearing a huge amount of impact and protects the body from injury. Body armors are already being actively used on the battlefield. Newer versions of these suits are very lightweight, provide protection against impact, and have infrared sensors for night vision and GPS capabilities. Defense contractors have successfully developed hydraulic-powered exoskeletons that allow the soldiers to lift heavy loads that would not have been possible for a human to execute. However, these suits are in their developmental phase.
Thermal Imaging Technology
Implementing the technology of thermal imaging in combat is being used by the military for a few years now. High-end optical devices supported with thermal imaging allow soldiers to achieve their target at any time when necessary. These devices help the soldiers to detect targets and illuminate the path even in a pitch dark environment. The U.S. military is already using CDTE systems that can automatically pinpoint human targets hiding behind walls or a cover. The rifle-like device is also capable of eliminating the target by firing 25 mm ammunition
Cyberwarfare
In this digital age, warfare is not limited to the battlefield. Virtually every countries’ military is striving to improve the security of digital devices and defend itself from ever-increasing cyber-attacks. The cyber warfare folks at www.cp-techusa.com point out the fact that these attacks are becoming sophisticated with time and could compromise traffic controls, transport, financial systems, and most importantly, leak classified military or civil documents. To mitigate these attacks, consistent up-gradation to the latest hardware and software is crucial to stay one step ahead. Moreover, the materials used to make the equipment are chosen carefully to be able to withstand impact or shocks without breaking and can be used in extreme weather conditions.
Missile Guided Systems
These sophisticated systems have been used in the Afghan and Iraq wars, where targets hid within the local community. The technology is so precise that a target can be easily eliminated without collateral damage. These missile-guided systems can be operated from miles away from the target and are easy to operate. The military uses downgraded versions of these systems, as hitting specific areas of a building or targeting specific people is the priority.
Satellite Guided Positioning
Technology has enabled the military to execute a majority of tasks with unprecedented precision and accuracy. Satellites are used to guide airdrops to be delivered to precise targets. War zones or regions hit by a natural calamity are delivered food and first aid palette using this satellite-guided airdrop system so that the whole community can benefit in situations like these. Moreover, military ammunition or any other supplies not more than 1000 kilograms can be handled with ease.
Directed Energy Weapons
It might feel like something out of science fiction, the use of laser technology for military purposes is on the rise. Equipment capable of directing energy to a target has already been tested in naval warships that can target ships and aircraft. These sophisticated systems are called active denial systems that can also intercept missile-guided systems, making them easier to defend. Relatively low-power systems are also ready to be used for crowd control, if necessary. Besides lasers, microwave energy has also been developed that projects microwaves onto the target, stimulating the cochlea (inner portion of the ear) and creating an unbearable level of discomfort as long as they stay within the range. Implementing technology like this for controlling a crowd is essential, as it leads to zero collateral damage. The implementation of this tech is still under debate, and we might see one soon in action.
There are several different technologies like plasma fields, cloaking, and even self-directed ammunition that are in their phases of development. Undoubtedly, tech has changed the way wars were fought earlier and is still evolving at a rapid pace. These technologies might be a fascinating discovery for a science nerd but are only developed and used for defense purposes.