The Jet Pak is Real

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the concept and practicality of jet packs, particularly in military and civilian applications such as ship-to-ship transfers and search and rescue operations. Participants explore the technological advancements, potential uses, and perceived value of these devices.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants note improvements in jet pack technology, highlighting their use in testing over open water for safety reasons.
  • There are mixed opinions on the utility of jet packs for military purposes, with some arguing they are nearly useless and others suggesting they have potential beyond combat.
  • One participant mentions the "cool factor" of jet packs, while another suggests they could be enhanced with additional equipment for tactical use.
  • Concerns are raised about the practicality of using jet packs for search and rescue operations, with some arguing that they may not offer significant advantages over traditional methods like helicopters.
  • There is speculation about future developments that could improve jet pack functionality, such as stabilizing mechanisms that would allow for shooting while flying.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a range of opinions, with no clear consensus on the effectiveness or practicality of jet packs. Some view them as a waste of resources, while others see potential applications, particularly in civilian contexts.

Contextual Notes

Participants acknowledge limitations in the current designs, such as the need for arm stabilization and the challenges of carrying equipment. The discussion also reflects varying definitions of utility in military versus civilian contexts.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in advancements in personal transportation technology, military applications, or search and rescue operations may find this discussion relevant.

Hornbein
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Wozers. The jet pack has been around for a decade or two at least but these look like new improved versions and I've never seen one used for ship to ship transfer. Very clever, although you'd think the bad guys would have to be deaf not to hear that something's going on.

EDIT: I see it' been a bit longer than just a couple of decades:
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Yes, definitely some improvements. Smart testing from boats over open water. If your gyros fail or you run low on fuel, you splash into water; though I imagine they use the jet turbine for gyroscopic stability. The hand/arm packs appear very "Ironman" in the Marvel comic sense.
iron-man-14.jpg
 
Exhibit A for how to know if you're wasting tax dollars on the military. Cute. Nearly useless.
 
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DaveE said:
Exhibit A for how to know if your wasting tax dollars on the military. Cute. Nearly useless.
Well, nearly is not entirely, but yeah, very expensive for the likely practical benefit.
 
Similar ones are also tested for search and rescue operations, so probably pricing is not that prohibitive.

 
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😲 the cool factor is there.
 
DaveE said:
Exhibit A for how to know if you're wasting tax dollars on the military. Cute. Nearly useless.
I think it's not that bad. Definitely not battle-ready, but - well, military is not just about battle.

BTW with some additional light ballistic / tactical shield it'd be quite a spectacle...
 
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They also come in electric and winged versions 😲

I can picture NYC's Casey Neistat using it to commute to work.
 
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If they could get rid of the need to stabilize with the arms, you could shoot while flying. Maybe if they were linked to the upper arm some way. Probably won't be long for that development.
 
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Borek said:
Similar ones are also tested for search and rescue operations, so probably pricing is not that prohibitive.
Yeah, I read about this on some EMS forums last year. The consensus was that since you can't carry much equipment and you need to wait for the hoist helicopter anyway to get your patient(s) out, there is not much advantage over the helicopter in the first place.
 

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