Enhancing humans with iron hands and mechanical exoskeletons next step in support for RAF's frontline aircraft crews

Exoskeletons and robotic 'iron hands' are being explored as a way of reducing tiredness and injuries among maintenance crews. 

The technology worn by maintenance crews could make it easier to hold power tools overhead for long periods of time, making the tools feel much lighter than they are. 

Production operators could also benefit from the cutting-edge technology, being explored by BAE and Accenture.

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The idea behind the exoskeleton is that it is completely mechanical, and uses physics to reduce the strain of physical labour on the operator's body, for example, supporting the arms being held up for extended periods.

This, in turn, is designed to improve efficiency, enhance health and safety and enable smarter fast-jet support.

RAF Coningsby played host to a tech roadshow, showing how the new technology can be used to augment human capabilities.