The Natick Soldier Research, Development and Engineering Center, or NSRDEC, in a press release, believe the introduction of exoskeleton is powerful step toward the future of soldier lethality.  As such, it has been working with Lockheed Martin Space and Missile (LMCO) to further develop  the human augmentation system prototype (read: exoskeleton).

Called “ONYX”, it is a powered, knee-based, mobility enhancing device that is seen to have a potential at keeping soldiers in to stay in peak performance whilst in contact, with equal or enhanced warfighting power. Indeed, with increased loads it means increased stress on soldiers who are in a mission which can slow them down or reduce their performance. Having a human augmentation system, they can carry their loads faster and for longer distances without causing injuries to their bodies caused by heavier loads.

In the development of the exoskeleton, the Natick is focusing initially on the Army Close Combat Forces, using information from combat operations, focus groups, reports, and table top exercises as said in the press release:

Understanding that 90 percent of casualties since WWII are from the Close Combat Force, the Army Chief of Staff has directed that one of his strategic focus areas emphasizes improving the lethality, maneuverability, mobility and survivability of the Army's most valuable asset -- the individual combatant. The Army seeks to cover more ground with fewer forces through strategic systems that integrate innovative technological concepts such as exoskeletons, other worn advanced capabilities, and tactics.

The Onyx will be tested in December and according to Army Times, it will be the 10th Mountain Division which will include a 6-month “development effort” first phase to test and adjust the Onyx to ensure it will fit and be comfortable to use for the soldiers to use. The second phase, which is set to take place inn 2019 will be to add faster and quieter actuators.

The third phase will be the ruggedized operations of the Onyx before the U.S. Army decides if it actually gets fielded. It is seen that if it does get approval, it can be ready for field use as early as 2021.

Other technologies that result into the research of the exoskeleton may just be used for the upper body support and the TALOS suit for the Special Operations Command.