A former Royal Marine has used a jet suit he invented to negotiate one of the toughest assault courses in the military.

Richard Browning - nicknamed the "real-life Iron Man" - flew around the course at the Commando Training Centre in Lympstone, Devon.

The 39-year-old managed to overcome the obstacles used to test new recruits.

The suit uses five engines to generate 1,000bhp and can cruise at more than 50mph.

Image: Mr Browning is chief test pilot of his own Gravity Industries company

Mr Browning, founder and chief test pilot of Gravity Industries, said: "It's been at least a decade since I was last at the Commando Training Centre in Lympstone, when I was being awarded my coveted green beret.


"It is an absolute honour to be invited as a guest at the King's Squad passout parade, but to be back tackling that assault course with one of our jet suits is a day I won't ever forget."

Image: The course is used to test the fitness of new recruits

Captain Oliver Mason said: "Royal Marines are sometimes called 'supermen' for their achievements, but even we stop short at the ability to fly."

Colonel Mike Tanner, the Commandant of the Commando Training Centre, added: "I was delighted to welcome Richard and his Gravity team to test his latest jet suit on our assault course.

"His endeavour to create this jet suit over two years is emblematic of the Commando mindset. I think it's fair to say we all wanted a go!"