"English Channel / La Manche Crossed By Flyboard" Topic

Obviously not warfare per se, but since the French military is pushing it I thought it might be interesting in a "future is here now" way: link

Neat, but I must say, I like the British flying suit (Ironman-style, but without the armor), and the Swiss guy's human, flying wing better.

This though, clearly has some utility, though less than the other two, if you can get the balance and flying technique down. I'll bet there's a steep learning curve though, for most of them.

it's a bit like the US army one man flying platform

The WASP II (Williams Aerial Systems Platform) turbofan powered individual lift device was developed under a contract with the US Army Tank Automotive Command of Fort Benning, Gerogia. During 1982 it was flown and tested successfully by some Army personnel, none of whom had previous flight experience. At first very interested, the US Army did not order any.

Yea, "flying trashcan" without the "can".

IIRC, I think that dated back to the 1960s, as far as development goes, if I'm not mistaken.

Eventually abandoned due to it supposedly being too noisy, and vulnerable to enemy fire. Perhaps with new, modern tech – quieter fans, and kevlar/ceramics, or other lightweight protection materials, it could be viable again.

I'd opt for a prone flyer position, with 2 – 4 smaller fans, for a lower profile, and nap of the earth, and/or treetop skimming ops. Easier to disappear from view that way.