Exoskeletons for Armed Forces

TATA Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) and the DRDO have jointly developed a “passive” exoskeleton designed specifically for the Indian Armed Forces

- LT GENERAL P.C. KATOCH (RETD)

XOSKELETONS ARE FITTED WITH special devices and artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the capability of a soldier, including faster movements, extra load-bearing capability; ease of walking in high altitude and rarified air, thereby reducing injuries.

Exoskeletons enhance additional load carrying capacity of soldiers to up to 100 kg for 8-hours with a 3-5 hours battery backup. Dual-use exoskeletons, like the Robotic Exoskeleton, can help soldiers with severe disabilities to live a close to normal life.

In 2015, British firm 'Intelligent Textiles' secured a multimillion-pound deal with the US and UK to bring exo-suit technology to soldiers. The news also was that Russian combat gear 'Sotnik' will replace existing 'Ratnik' armour worn by Russian soldiers; to integrate ability to control small size attack drone swarms, robots, in addition to enhancing situational awareness, improve combat performance and efficiency, and reduce risk to life on the battlefield. In recent years, Chinese border troops have been using non-powered exoskeleton suits for carrying ammunition, as well as for supporting operations like supply delivery, logistics and patrolling.

Jaipur-based 'Newndra Innovations' has provided two types of exoskeletons namely 'JaipurBelt' and 'ArmMax'to the Indian Army, Indian Air Force (IAF), and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF).