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Airmen from the 386th Air Expeditionary Wing are testing the Roam Robotics Forge exoskeleton, designed to reduce physical strain in airfield logistics roles. The exoskeleton aims to improve stability and extend endurance during tasks like loading aircraft and maintenance.

Initial tests show a productivity increase of up to 40%, with air transportation specialists reporting reduced load stress and increased stability. The system is particularly beneficial during long, physically demanding missions.

Air Force Research Laboratory engineer Anthony Ligouri noted that current exoskeleton technology is optimized for specific tasks, particularly in airfield logistics. Phase one testing identified the air transportation specialist career field (2T2) as the most likely to benefit. Positive feedback from users and leadership will inform future decisions on broader adoption of such systems within the Air Force.