Students develop jetpack to make soldiers run faster

15 September 2014 - 13:57
By Sapa
The Arizona State University's jetpack.
Image: YouTube LLC The Arizona State University's jetpack.

Students at Arizona State University have developed a jetpack that may not allow you to fly, but does allow anybody to run a four minute mile.

Online news website Pocket Lint reports that the US military wanted to develop something to speed up their forces, something that would allow any of its soldiers run a four minute mile.

Students at the university came up with a jetpack - with two thrusts exertling force back and down to offer forward drive and a little lift.

This resulted in faster running times, though it still weighs about 11.2lb (5.08 kgs) - a bit heavier than a pack of supermarket braai briquettes.

They are currently working on a lighter, more efficient version of the device.

While the device is being developed for military applications, we can't help but envisage how it would rock a soccer match.