Jet suit combat potential shown to UK army chiefs

Army chiefs in the UK got a close-up look at the military potential of a human jet suit.

Richard Browning, known as the 'Jet Man', flew in the suit during a demonstration at the Army People Conference at Farnborough International Airport in southern England.

In front of senior army personnel, Mr Browning took off and landed on a jeep and a truck before flying on to a balcony.

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The technology, developed by Mr Browning's company Gravity Industries, can reach speeds of 130km/h and a height of 3600 metres.

Powered by five gas turbines, the jet suit offers the potential to carry soldiers over war zones at high speed.

The design of the jetpack allows its pilots to steer and adjust their speed just by moving their arms.

It has been compared to Marvel action hero 'Iron Man'.

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A spokesman for the British Army told the Press Association that the display was a demonstration showing potential capability for the future of the armed forces.

"Innovation and technological advance, two of the main drivers at the Army's People Conference 21 being held at Farnborough International Conference Centre, were remarkably demonstrated as the conference opened with a capability display flight by Richard Browning wearing a gravity-defying jet suit."

Earlier this year, British Royal Marines aboard a warship tested the jet suit for boarding operations.

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The equipment was used to help the Royal Navy understand the military potential for the technology.

Gravity Industries said on its website the jet suit also has potential for civilian use, such as being used by paramedics to reach incidents in remote locations.