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While the project sounds like something out of a science fiction novel, its mission is simple, said James Geurts, the Deputy for Acquisition of the U.S. Special Operations Command at MacDill.

“We’ve lost a lot of guys to gunshot wounds and explosions,” he said. “If there’s anything I can do to more rapidly field technology, give better protection, better capability, any progress, I think we’ve done well.”

Some companies working on the TALOS project are in Tampa this week for the International Special Operations Forces conference. The four-day event showcases special military technologies, gadgets and tools — from pen-like systems collecting chemical vapours to underwater robots. Several top analysts and military brass are also scheduled to speak, including SOCOM commander, Adm. William McRaven.

McRaven is widely credited with initiating the TALOS project. Last year, he described SOCOM’s unique approach to the project: By harnessing the expertise of professional engineers, the creativity of students and possibly even “local garage tinkerers,” the military will end up with a truly innovative project.

“I am very committed to it because I’d like that last operator we lost to be the last one we ever lose in this fight or the fight of the future, and I think we can get there,” McRaven said last July.

What might be more remarkable than the whiz-bang technology of the suit is how Geurts and his team are reaching out to recruit contractors in non-traditional ways.