Source: Next Big Future
A study group surveyed a wide range of current and emerging technologies relevant to assisting and augmenting human performance in many domains.
They looked at
* auditory (hearing) enhancement for communication and protection; and
* direct neural enhancement of the human brain for two-way data transfer.
* ocular (vision) enhancements to imaging, sight, and situational awareness;
* restoration and programmed muscular control through an optogenetic bodysuit sensor web;
A lot of the cyborg capabilities that are described could be achieved without implants. Artificial intelligence, improved communications and lens displays could achieve many of the results. Sensors and high-resolution satellites could feed information to soldiers and civilians.
Companion robots, drones and vehicles could provide far more sensors, communications and capabilities.
Cyborg Ears for Super Hearing
Direct replacement or modification of the middle-ear bones and the cochlea. The enhancement would afford individuals greater dynamic range of hearing, which would protect or filter overexposure and increase sensitivity to low-amplitude sounds. As the technology matures, it could expand the range for sensory perception to what are currently infrasonic and ultrasonic levels.
For soldiers auditory enhancements would afford protection from high-intensity noises, provide a wider dynamic range of detectable sounds, and afford integrated communication capabilities. In the near-term (present day to 2030), it is anticipated that the enhancement will be coupled with networking capabilities and will be used to track human detection of salient objects in an acoustic environment.
Later versions of super hearing:
(1) the capability for communication through imagined or covert speech and
(2) implants that are significantly less invasive or reversible.
Cyborg Human Brains
Neural implants for brain–computer interfacing (BCI) would allow for seamless interaction between individuals and secondary assets (machines). This control could be exerted upon drones, weapon systems, and other remote systems operated by an enhanced individual. Brain implants would allow for control of electronics, enhanced communications and situational awareness.
The pace of development in cyborg technologies is expected to accelerate over the next 10–15 years, driven by commercial medical applications.
SOURCES- DoD Biotechnologies for Health and Human Performance Council
