POWER SUITS TURN SOLDIERS INTO SUPERHUMANS
ABU DHABI Soldiers in exoskeleton suit doing superhuman stuff are turning heads at the Umex and SimTEX 2020 defence exhibition in Abu Dhabi.
A combination of robotics and human mind, the suit helps hi-tech trooper, wearing frames, lens, guns and battery, enhance movements, dash around and take part in operations without actually straining his muscles. Lexo 2.5 by South Korean firm LIG Nex1 uses motion sensors to maximise performances of soldiers, especially in critical areas, challenging terrains and combat zones.
“The weather conditions and terrain with mountains pose tough conditions for the soldiers in South Korea. So we developed these to minimise consumption of their energy. These wearable robots will help soldier have muscular strength just like (fictional superhero) Iron Man. It is powered by battery and help soldier to speed up movements. The UAE Armed Forces are interested in these systems as this can be used in desert areas too,” Hyon Bin-hong, chief manager, LIG Nex1, said.
And then there is Lexo-W, which helps soldiers to carry up to 30kg of weight without exerting pressure on their arms. “Lexo-W has got wires to support the upper body of a soldier and helps them carry heavy combat equipment in a battlefield. A soldier can easily carry heavy armour and ammunition. This can also be used for commercial purpose, industrial areas and airports. Our partner Korean Air uses this system to manage the heavy load of suitcases of passengers at airport.”
The company has also developed anti-drone systems for the Middle East environment.