First of all, I want to thank all you DT readers for your incredibly insightful discussions regarding the latest spat over Dragon Skin. It’s such a pleasure to edit a site that draws such informed conversations that actually help drive the story forward.
So a big pat on the back to our readers, we appreciate it.
In fact, one of our savvy readers helped push the debate even further by tipping DT off on a whole new class of body armor that simply puts Dragon Skin – and, frankly, all others to shame.
“Foreign.Boy” wondered why in the heck DT readers weren’t discussing the “Trojan Armor” system, invented by armor expert extraordinaire Troy Hurtubise. With all this hoopla about how Dragon Skin is the new wonder armor, how could such well-informed readers ignore the cutting-edge performance of this as yet unnoticed system?
After viewing the scientifically-precise laboratory field tests for myself, I cannot help but agree whole heartedly with (may I go so far as to call him my “colleague?”) – “Foreign.Boy.”
Watch a report on the new suit below (and don’t mind the weird cover shot on the video screen).
(Be sure to read the continued entry, you won't be disappointed.)
So I’ve dug and zorched around the net based on FB’s suggestion. And here DT readers can view for themselves in wonderment at this new armor. I’m sure you’ll all agree that the folks over a PEO Soldier would be smart to drop everything they’re doing and launch a “Manhattan Project”-style rapid fielding initiative to get the Trojan Armor on our boys in the Box.
And, oh, from all of us at Defense Tech - have a great Memorial Day weekend, folks. I’ll leave you with this added video we dug up showing Hurtubise testing early prototypes of the suit. Thank goodness he made such life-saving improvements!
Comments
WOW, THAT'S AUSUME! Look forwaqrd to seeing his "for the soulder" version. I HOPE he can get past the "long stone wall" when its time for testing. We realy need to find a way of getting testing done by a completely independant and disconnected agency or contractor, with FBI type oversite to be sure no one is being bought.
The fight over the Draqgon Skin still has me going. There is no companion test with the current Interceptor body armor. I don't get the bit about the adhesive failure at 160F, where did that come from? did they heat it until it unbonded? did it do too well until they roasted it to an unrealistic temperature (I don't see any body armor doing much good against a flame thrower)? Why was it necessary to do cuts and changes in the Army's rebutle video (the hole on the secound shot doesn't appear until after the cut in the tape, its a lesser dent until after the cut)? I am a suspisiouse SOB because in my research I found out they test Keflar helmets with an M16 because a 7.62/308 goes through it like a sheet of paper! Why test them at all when that's the case? Interceptor saves lives, but there is a question about plates failing if hit two to four times... Are the guys getting redily available change-outs in the field? I realy would like to know.
Posted by: JMMC62 at August 16, 2007 12:17 PM
Raven and Fred, you guys didn't watch the second video, did you? If you notice, he's able to kneel, go prone and have full mobility. The bear suits are:
1. In the 80s, and he's come a long way since then
2. BEAR SUITS, not the suits that he's proposing to the military
The Trojan suit (which IS the one he's proposing) only weighs 18kg (39.6 lbs).
BT, the 7.62X54mmAPI are in MILLIMETERS, which is entirely different. That's about a 30 calibre round. The reason why armor piercing rounds are armor piercing are because they are reinforced to not mushroom, so it keeps on truckin'. I don't know for sure, but I think his high-impact plastic lined with ceramic bullet protection over ballistic foam should be enough, but again, I don't know for sure.
Posted by: RockTheCasbah at July 15, 2007 02:24 PM
I have not been able to keep up with this subject so if somebody would please explain the issue with the Dragon Skin it would be much appreaciated
please write to: sopsin08@yahoo.com
Posted by: Joe Williams at June 14, 2007 11:02 AM
its back door politricks and bribery. cid should investivgate the heat issues. -60 farrenheight. unless you are in antartica or space. 140 celcius unles you live on venus or are hit with a stick of c-4 or a flamethrower and its not gonna matter anyway.pinnacle is getting over...
Posted by: Max Anderson at June 5, 2007 11:51 AM
boy! you guys fell for a fake video,that the suit some dum-ass made to get close to bears in the wilds.and he states that the suits weights more than 150 lbs. and is hard to move around and if you fall down you WILL NEED HELP to get back on your feet. So save the tax payers' money and stick to a suit that can help the boys in the combat zones!!
Posted by: raven at June 4, 2007 11:35 AM
One of the dumbest things I have yet to see. the guy walks around like a robot. How is he supposed to use any type of weapon?????
Posted by: Fred at June 3, 2007 09:28 AM
I can't see the military being interested, but I could see real police applications.
If someone barricades themselves in a building, a team could go in, confident that they wouldn't be injured and subdue the suspect.
Posted by: Henry at June 1, 2007 11:34 PM
While this may be a load of untested BS or a true option, remember that the U.S. Army is actually trying to develop an armored exoskeleton suit in it's Future Force Warrior program, the next stage after Land Warrior.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Future_Force_Warrior
On its face I think it's a over-the-top idea and has questionable performance now but as the saying goes "if its stupid but it works, it's not stupid," it's just really got to prove that it will work!
Posted by: Matt at June 1, 2007 03:09 PM
Hey, we were watching the "testing" for the armor, and my dad says he would like some for downhill mtn. biking!
Posted by: John at June 1, 2007 01:09 PM
I think this site took a huge step - downwards - in projecting this as a serious alternative...
I do hope that it was done tongue-in-cheek.
Posted by: Hahn at June 1, 2007 12:13 PM
You've got to be joking! No one here can actually consider this seriuosly for our armed forces. this is not body armor. Nothing to protect against small arms, IED shrapnel, ETC. The best defensive trait of this joke is that the enimy would be hindered fighting us, because they would be laughing! Simper Fi!
Posted by: trickyrickcr at June 1, 2007 11:05 AM
Are you serious. This is not even close to being something the military would ever use. Anyone who has a positve comment toward this is a moron, and has no tactical or overseas experiance in a combat arms field. Anyone wishing to argue this with me may email me at owen_conway@yahoo.com Thank you.
Posted by: owen conway at June 1, 2007 09:55 AM
I certainly hope this is a joke. I have been a soldier for 13 years and EOD since 1996. Trust me when I tell you that this guy is a crackpot. No EOD troop would want something that is so untested. Second of all why would he only equip the soldier with sidearms and not a viable weapon system. The interceptor body armor system, while definitely outclassed by Dragonskin, is still better than nothing. The soldier is at least afforded some measure of mobility while wearing IBA. I certainly hope no one takes this trojan armor seriously.
Posted by: JC at June 1, 2007 09:22 AM
Now if we could just get Troy together with the groups working (at government expense) on powered infantry suits, they might really come up with something useful. I feel that the development of powered exoskeleton armor is inevitable, and the only thing holding it back it either battery or power generation technology. Until that time, however, I see American troops, required to carry increasingly heavier loads of body armor, equipment, etc., at an increasing disadvantage against relatively unencumbered opponents.
Posted by: Walt Holberg at June 1, 2007 09:11 AM
Is this a late April 1st video
Posted by: afret91 at June 1, 2007 07:33 AM
It looks pretty good. I agree far be it from me to tear apart such a cool invention. At $2000 a hit I can see EOD wanting interest in it.
In my short experience of military doctrine and the way things are done a problems arise that are likely and sadly not going to be researched adequately to solve.
First the suit is untested against ballistics Troy mentioned. The ballistic foam is an awesome invention, I am surprised I have never seen it before. If the suit could get NIJ level III certification or greater (the level given to the current form of body armor with plates) it would be given much more credibility.
Due to the economy of the entire system I question its resilliance in desert conditions, namely the gadgets that were included and the use of solar cells to power the suit. I didn't see what the solar cells were used to power so I don't know of the full advantage/disadvantage they may offer.
The system weighs right around 50lbs. Like I said before EOD might find some use but for the average soldier to be suited in that thing it would quickly put the max combat weight for all the other gear (weapon, ruck, ect.)
Better than Dragon Skin, I am not convinced, namely I find the two products in different categories. Dragon Skin is body armor. Trojan Suit is an exoskeleton suit. To change/adjust the military doctrine to appropriately use the suit would take so long it wouldn't come into application for at least 5 years.
Is the Trojan Suit a great invention? Yes, heck I think for $2000 I'd be willing to get one for the fun of it. Do I honestly think it is versitile to meet the needs of the military in the current/upcoming conflicts? No.
Posted by: Joseph at June 1, 2007 12:48 AM
The only thing that I can think of that they didn't do was have this person step in front of a speeding locomotive. I don't see how anyone can really move wearing that suit.
Posted by: Steven Carson at May 31, 2007 11:42 PM
It seems to me that the Military Industrial Complex is not interested in outsiders playing on their turf. The indifference with which Troy's inventions have been treated is in my opinion negligence on their part.
This suit could be totally refined and made to be more comfortable using advanced gel pads with cooling/heating lines to address the temperature issue raised earlier. The refinement would most likely solve the issue of the exposed joints and neckline.
I would not be too surprised to find out that if Troy were given 1 Million Dollars and access to DARPA Research Chemists if he could not improve his formulas. Geniuses are hard to find. I am of the opinion that Troy is an armor genius. I have done a lot of research for a book I am writing on Advanced Armor Concepts and frankly Troy's is the best I have come across and it is a functioning prototype.
I am frustrated by my government's refusal to recognize a golden opportunity when it is presented. However, this attitude is nothing new the quest for powered flight was treated with equal skepticism and mockery. The Wrights were Right but sadly, they never really saw the vast wealth their perfected concept has created. I hope I am wrong but sadly I suspect that Troy will fall into this category of genius inventor; brilliant and forgot save as a footnote in history.
if your interested I have more comments and thought on this issue posted at http://wanderingiceworm.blogspot.com/.
Posted by: Iceworm72 at May 31, 2007 02:42 AM
Far be it for me to knock another inventor. Without inventors, I doubt the majority of society would survive. It was a caveman inventor who figured out how "to make" fire, rather than "carry it around"....... :)
With that being said, the idea is a good one and has been for many years. Its simply a nice rendition of a 100yr old 20,000 leagues type suit.
When he decides to shoot himself in the face with it, can I watch? (not a dig Troy, I know the BS you face...I hope you make some money!)
Alot less "It coulda shoulda woulda been this way if I did it" and just be glad some guys really do try to make stuff. The lazy assed population likes to sit back, wait for an intelligent creation and then make fun of it.
To them I say put up or shut up! Nice going Troy, keep the faith brother! (Whats the difference between science and science fiction? A: a couple of years....)
Best, David Woroner
Survivalconsultants.com
Posted by: David Woroner at May 30, 2007 09:08 AM
The guy is clearly a crazy Doc Brown type, but some of his stuff isn't such a bad idea. The tracking system that can be swallowed, if actually workable, would actually be extremely valuable. We just lost a few guys while tearing half of Iraq apart looking for them. Maybe that would have been different if thay had some sort of tracker in their gut. Wierd, yes. Potentially usefull, hell yeah.
Posted by: Nadnerbus at May 30, 2007 01:14 AM
Gee, I thought the military has been issuing Trojans for protection for at least 60 years!
Posted by: Mitch S. at May 29, 2007 09:52 AM
I think old Troy meant that the 26 Oz/Sq. Ft Armor at 2/8" thick armor is level 3-A, not 3. If he could make hard armor to stop level 3 at 1/4" thick and only 1.6 Lbs/Sq. Ft he would have everyone beating his door down.
Posted by: Allan D. Bain at May 28, 2007 11:37 PM
Seems like it wouldn't be too much trouble to cover up caps in the system shin extensions for the knee and shoulder extensions for the neck. But at 18 kgs that is 40 pounds about. Doesn't sound so bad for so much coverage. Also troy's ballistic cushion http://www.exn.ca/dailyplanet/view.asp?date=9/15/2004#
stops some dynamite from ripping a car door to pieces.
Posted by: txzen at May 26, 2007 04:43 PM
This "suit" is so cheesy. The idea is valid, but I doubt its effectiveness.
Posted by: Mike at May 26, 2007 03:01 PM
He is now bankrupt and he tried to sell suit on eBay few months ago.
It looks like a power ranger lol
this stuff could realy scare crap out of the enemy
Posted by: tajin sarin at May 26, 2007 09:17 AM
I typed "Trojan Armor" into Google. This is what I came up with: "http://www.engadget.com/2007/02/06/project-grizzly-guy-forced-to-auction-trojan-halo-suit/"
You can't deny the guy's got balls, even if he is Canadian.
Posted by: SeanM at May 26, 2007 09:01 AM
I think this should just replace the entire Land Warrior Program :P
Posted by: dav at May 26, 2007 05:25 AM
How awesome (and awe inspriring) would it be to equip a whole army with these.. it's allmost like Halo multiplayer (Master Chief anyone?).
And compare it with the no-armor rag style of the average Jihadist.
Posted by: Macaca at May 26, 2007 05:23 AM
Though the tests are impressive and I realize this armor is till in testing, you move like molasses in winter in that suit. Granted, its survivable but I feel it should allow for much more alacrity.
Posted by: John0207 at May 26, 2007 05:06 AM
YAY! Now I can safely visit Chicago!!
Posted by: ELMO at May 25, 2007 11:19 PM
Probably kill too many people by heatstroke...
I wonder if it affects your ability to go prone, assault a building, dismount from a Bradley, etc.
Posted by: Charles at May 25, 2007 11:13 PM
The footage of him being run down by a truck with a mattress on the front is truly impressive.
All this begs the question though.... Would any protection increase be worth the PR nightmare of having American troops running around looking like Star Wars stormtroopers?
Posted by: Ness at May 25, 2007 11:00 PM
Wow. With some support, a contract, some money, and a staff, Troy could really streamline this thing and make something the military could put to good use.
Posted by: Mike at May 25, 2007 10:43 PM
"American gets shot while testing bullet proof armor"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FWrutEhngJc
.
Yes, it too is humor.
Posted by: Camp at May 25, 2007 09:10 PM
Shine on your Crazy Diamonds!! LOL
Posted by: Thomas at May 25, 2007 07:06 PM
I am going to assume that his entry was a joke aimed at cutting the Dragon Skin/Interceptor tension over here
Posted by: Siconik at May 25, 2007 05:53 PM
Troy is a very smart man. I'm sure if he had access to AP rounds in a 7.65.. he would have tested it.
However, his body armour doesn't use 'modern' materials. Troy is an inventor in every sense of the word.
The french military has already did work with Hurtubise. (http://www.baytoday.ca/content/news/details.asp?c=6657)
DT, Be careful calling me you "colleague" as I have no defense credentials... but I'm beaming with pride that I was mentioned in a 'regular' post. I'm a huge military, history, current affairs, and technology buff... and that doesn't make me near the expert I believe you guys to be.
Up in Canada, the 'Trojan' was on the news for a good few weeks.. I'm surprised it didn't make more news down south. He did drive it over the border (wearing it). I have full faith in Troy that he could 'adjust' (if it needs it) his design if requested and given the resources necessary.
Posted by: Foreign.Boy at May 25, 2007 05:00 PM
the lastest version of the suit (Mark VII) of armor weighs 186 pounds (84kg). im sure its ballistic and shock protection is fine, but somehow, i doubt that soldiers are going to want to walk round all day with this.
on the other hand, I'm surprised the military (Canadian, or American) have not adopted the suit for some specialist purpose.
Posted by: igt at May 25, 2007 04:59 PM
Actually, if you want some kick'n battle armor... check out the StarCraft 2 Cinematic Trailer.
WOW, THAT'S AUSUME! Look forwaqrd to seeing his "for the soulder" version. I HOPE he can get past the "long stone wall" when its time for testing. We realy need to find a way of getting testing done by a completely independant and disconnected agency or contractor, with FBI type oversite to be sure no one is being bought.
The fight over the Draqgon Skin still has me going. There is no companion test with the current Interceptor body armor. I don't get the bit about the adhesive failure at 160F, where did that come from? did they heat it until it unbonded? did it do too well until they roasted it to an unrealistic temperature (I don't see any body armor doing much good against a flame thrower)? Why was it necessary to do cuts and changes in the Army's rebutle video (the hole on the secound shot doesn't appear until after the cut in the tape, its a lesser dent until after the cut)? I am a suspisiouse SOB because in my research I found out they test Keflar helmets with an M16 because a 7.62/308 goes through it like a sheet of paper! Why test them at all when that's the case? Interceptor saves lives, but there is a question about plates failing if hit two to four times... Are the guys getting redily available change-outs in the field? I realy would like to know.
Posted by: JMMC62 at August 16, 2007 12:17 PM