The progress of the tactical jet suit continues. One of the most promising jet suits which has proven itself to be maneuverable and fast, the Gravity Industries Jet Suit which is made in the UK went across the pond (via transport, not under its own power) where it is being tested by the Americans.

In the video below, Gravity Industries, together with the Joint Prototyping and Experimentation Maritime (JPEM) Technology Demonstration Program of the Naval Postgraduate School showed the use of the Jet Suit for Maritime Interdiction and Visit Board Search and Seizure (VBSS).

The demonstration showed a shore to ship approach where a pair of armed jet suit pilots landed on the Stiletto where they “secured” the ship. The Stilleto is a 88-foot experimental boat for the JPEM that provides an authentic military maritime platform with easy access for small businesses and non-traditional performers.  It is has an “electronic keel” that enables rapid integration, demonstration, and experimentation with new technologies.

From the Stiletto, one of the operators then landed on a smaller boat for a smaller platform demo and then took off for a sea to shore approach where he is joined by his partner where they performed some tactical movements and showed the maneouverability of the jet suits used.

Seen mounted on the jet suit that is over the shoulder of the pilot is pistol which is a helmet-steered pistol for “suppression” as the pilot is unable to hold a weapon whilst in the air since both arms are used for steering the jet suit. However, it is an inactive and reminds us of the shoulder mounted weapon in the "Predator" film series. It might not be inaccurate to shoot with but since it’s used for suppression, it keeps the enemy heads down to allow the pilot to land and use the primary weapon with both hands.

Gravity Industries are running a “Flight Club” back in the UK where they train jet suit pilots. They have two package for those interested where a Flight Experience will cost one US$3,500 + VAT and the more advanced Fligh Training will set one back US$8,500 + VAT.