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Harnessing science to create the ultimate warrior

By Linda Geddes

20 May 2009

New Scientist. Science news and long reads from expert journalists, covering developments in science, technology, health and the environment on the website and the magazine.

Ready for battle? Battalions of super-soldiers could result from the US army’s relationship with novel neurotechnology research

(Image: Richard Mattox / US Army)

Editorial: Is this the dawn of the super-soldier?

BATALLIONS of super-soldiers could be selected for specific duties on the basis of their genetic make-up and then constantly monitored for signs of weakness. So says a report by the US National Academies of Science (NAS).

If a soldier is struggling, a digital “buddy” might step in and warn them about nearby threats, or advise comrades to zap them with an electromagnet to increase their alertness. If…

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