TALOS The Tactical Assault Light Operator Suit (TALOS) program designed to give special ops units, such as the Navy's SEALS and Army's Green Berets, superhuman strength, enhanced vision, and extra protection. The exoskeleton suit has gained a lot of popularity because of its resemblance to Marvel's Iron Man. Although it has been an ongoing project for over 11 years, it has only become practical within the last couple years. And luckily for our generation, we are expected to see a working prototype in August 2018.

The Inspiration

TALOS by DailyMail Oftentimes, the first man in the building is at greater risk of being engaged and mortally wounded. Recognizing this after such an incident, USSOCOM Admiral William McRaven wanted more protection for his operators entering potentially dangerous buildings. What he came up with is our very own "Iron Man' suit.

The Tech Some potential technologies to be used include advanced armour, command and control computers, power generators, and enhanced mobility exoskeletons. One potential technology for advanced armour is liquid body armour. Depending on the magnetic field or electrical current, liquid could transform itself into a solid state. In addition, the liquid body armour could be used to monitor and control body temperature, heart rate, body position, and hydration levels.

The Issues Currently, one of the issues is to make sure the operator doesn't overheat. That is where research and development of the liquid body armour could come in handy. Another issue is how to power the suit. If you have ever watched Marvel's Iron Man, then try and recall back to Tony Stark's very first suit. The big and bulky suit powered by a car battery. Just like that "Iron Man" suit, TALOS is currently powered by a one- kilowatt backpack. One that is bigger and heavier than desired. Sadly, we just don't have access to Tony Stark's Arc Reactor technology just yet! But with more research and development, our "Iron Man" suit will be a step towards Tony Stark's.

Resources: https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2016/06/dod-continues-quest-to-make- iron-man-exosuit-for-special-ops/ http://www.chinatopix.com/articles/105086/20161101/talos-armored-combat-suit- soldiers-see-prototype-2018.htm http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-3898700/US-Army-test-radical-Iron-Man- bullet-proof-liquid-armour-gives-soldiers-super-human-strength.html http://www.nationaldefensemagazine.org/archive/2016/May/Pages/SpecialOpsIronMan SuitonTrackfor2018.aspx