Right now, exoskeletons are generally intended for logistical and engineering purposes, due to their short range and battery life which only lets it operate for a span of hours. But in China, manufacturers think exoskeletons could be suitable for infantry in challenging environments like mountainous terrain.
The 202 Institute of China Ordnance Industry Group debuted its exoskeleton at the November 2014 Zhuhai Airshow.
Less than a year later, at a June 2015 presentation, the 202 Institute's updated exoskeleton showed off upgrades, including a larger battery pack, strengthened legs and more powerful, hip-mounted hydraulic/pneumatic pumps to power leg movement, Popular Science reported.
The exoskeleton can allow the user to carry more than 100 pounds, and holds enough charge to walk 20 kilometers (about 12.5 miles) at a speed of 4.5 kilometers per hour, according to Popular Science. Other photos showed that the exoskeleton was flexible enough to allow lateral ground movement – in other words, crawling in the mud.
Outfitted with an exoskeleton, the average soldier could carry more ammunition, food, and batteries, while still being able to carry a heavy machine gun.
