US Army tests powered exoskeletons for battlefield load carrying

In late September and early October 2024, following a history of research into exoskeleton technology, the US Army's 1-78 Field Artillery Battalion conducted a three-day evaluation of various powered exoskeleton suits at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. This evaluation featured soldiers utilizing exoskeleton harnesses to transport artillery shells during a field exercise aimed at assessing human augmentation capabilities. Despite the recent testing, officials emphasized that the military is still in the early stages of determining how such suits could be effectively implemented in combat situations. No official requirement document for the development and deployment of these exoskeletons currently exists, demonstrating ongoing uncertainty in integrating advanced technology into military operations. The concept of powered exoskeletons has been explored by the US military since at least the 1960s, when early prototypes were envisioned to augment soldiers' strength and endurance. Throughout the decades, several projects were initiated, including the Army’s quest for a mechanized battlesuit and various experimental suits developed by engineers and scientists. Each attempt has faced challenges, leading to skepticism about the technology’s applicability in real-world combat. The fall of 2024 marks another attempt to reignite interest and innovation in this area, as service officials stress the urgent need to lighten soldier loads in light of changing military priorities. The Army has adapted its strategy to focus on potential conflicts with technologically advanced adversaries, like Russia and China. The current push for exoskeleton technology aligns with this broader strategic pivot, as military planners recognize that enhancing soldier capabilities is essential for maintaining an edge in future engagements. Recent experiments, including those conducted by the Air Force to test pneumatically powered exosuits, indicate a more pronounced examination of how robotic assistance can help service members manage their loads effectively. Although some officials consider a functional powered armor suit a long-term investment that may not materialize until the 2040s, the desire to explore these options is evident among military leadership. As the Army continues to reevaluate its human augmentation strategies, the outcome of the recent evaluation may influence future funding and development efforts. While positive results could strengthen the case for deploying exoskeletons on the battlefield, officials remain cautious. They acknowledge that these exoskeletons are still in their infancy phase and must be thoroughly tested before any formal integration into the ranks can occur. The future applications of powered exoskeleton technology will undoubtedly depend on extensive trials that test functionality in combat-like scenarios, ensuring they can meet the rigorous demands faced by modern soldiers in the field.