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The errors of definitions multiply themselves according as the reckoning proceeds; and lead men into absurdities, which at last they see but cannot avoid, without reckoning anew from the beginning.

-Thomas Hobbes

German Army Gets Wings

A new parachute system, developed by German firms ESG Elektroniksystem-und Logistik and Dräger Aerospace, will allow soldiers to fly laterally up to 125 miles after jumping, making it possible for aircraft to drop parachutists into an area of operations without flying into dangerous airspace. (Although, if I was a parachutist, I think I'd rather be inside a plane over dangerous airspace than outside. Hrm.)

The system is comprised of a parachute, modular carbon fiber wings, and turbojets.

Parts of the system have been in use by the German army since 2003.

"The new wing will...reduce the impact of wind conditions on the jumper and allow operatives to travel up to 40 kilometers carrying loads of around 100 kilograms." --Peter Felstead, Jane's Defence Weekly

No mention of the U.S. Army adopting the technology. I guess we're going to let the Germans play around with it for a while first.

Now where's my flying car? It's 2006 for goodness sake...

Posted by Rick on May 31, 2006 at 09:45 AM

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Flying cars? I'd settle for a car that doubles as a boat.

Posted by: Rammage at June 2, 2006 8:40 AM

The errors of definitions multiply themselves according as the reckoning proceeds; and lead men into absurdities, which at last they see but cannot avoid, without reckoning anew from the beginning.

-Thomas Hobbes

German Army Gets Wings

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