A Bengaluru company is in the race to supply the army with a mobility-enhancing jetpack.
Story so far: Absolute Composites, a Bengaluru-based composite materials company, is the only Indian company rushing to supply jetpacks to the armed forces. The Indian Army is looking for jetpack suits that will enhance human mobility while flying in rough terrain. Other, non-Indian companies are in the race too.
- The jetpack is fuelled by diesel, possesses a 10 km range, and can fly for up to 8 minutes. It weighs 40 kg and can carry a load of 80 kg.
- The optimal height for it to fly to is between 10 feet and 20 feet above the ground. However, it can fly at an altitude of 3,000 meters. The suit is appropriate for when there are obstructions on the ground.
Uses: The jetpack suit can be utilised for military and civilian purposes. For military personnel, the suit helps to navigate in mine-infested areas, cross a waterbody quickly, or move from one ship to another. For civilian purposes, it has uses in fire emergencies, medical rescue operations, and floods.
Then and now: The jetpack suit that inspired Absolute Composites was created by Robert Browning, the founder and chief test pilot of Gravity Industries. The former improvised the original suit in terms of materials used with heat. They have added an extra engine, and some design modification has made it possible to carry small quantities of medicines and other supplies in it. Soon, display helmets will be added to the suit.