Researchers at Britain's Defence Science and Technology Laboratory are developing machines that can generate electrical fields that could repel projectile attacks:
Link via io9 | Image: Paramount
When a threat from incoming fire is detected by the vehicle, the energy stored in the supercapacitor can be rapidly dumped onto the metal plating on the outside of the vehicle, producing a strong electromagnetic field.
Scientists behind the project claim this would produce a momentary "force field" capable of repelling the incoming rounds and projectiles.
Although it would last for only a fraction of a second, if timed correctly it could prevent rocket propelled grenades, which detonate on impact, from reaching their target. The supercapacitor could then be rapidly recharged ready for another attack.
Link via io9 | Image: Paramount
That's why magnetic shielding was invented. It would be more for the sake of the sensitive electronic equipment inside then the soldiers though.
//I wish I had a new ion blaster to shoot whoever thought it was a clever idea to put graphics in the neatorama comment input box - just on the gut buster stun level of course//
the fact that this technology can only be implemented for a fraction of a second would sound somewhat limiting if not for the advent of computer systems in all aspects of war, i am sure this shall be linked to a computer, and that makes the timing issue less crippling.
i am always happy to see militaries spending money to develope armor rather than weapons. gundams next plz?
And don't get too excited coldfish. Someone will invent a laser that's not effected by this.
Oh wait, they're working on that too.
Your tax dollars at work.