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This week, the world witnessed the thrilling jet-suit race in Dubai Marina, where racers showcased Iron Man-like technology as they zipped around floating buoys, aiming to reach the finish line in a spectacular and loud manner.
The event on Wednesday, February 28, was hosted by Gravity Industries, a UK-based company known for its high-powered jet suits.
Issa Kalfon emerged victorious and was awarded a symbolic gold jet turbine, according to the Associated Press (AP).
Apart from a minor error by Emirati pilot Ahmed al-Shehhi, who allegedly crashed into the water during his heat, everything went according to plan. Luckily, he swiftly emerged from the water’s surface and signaled approval before being rescued by a crew.
Drawing inspiration from F1 technology, the suits are equipped with five gas turbine propulsion assemblies on the arms and back, capable of producing over 1,000 horsepower. The racer can reach speeds of up to 128 kilometers (80 miles) per hour. Suits can usually remain airborne for about 3 minutes, but under ideal conditions, they can fly for more than 7 minutes.
If the attire brings to mind a particular wealthy superhero, you’re not the only one. The Gravity Industries founder appears to have taken inspiration from the Marvel universe.
“The closest analogy would be that dream of flying… and then going wherever your mind is taking you,” Richard Browning, the founder and chief test pilot for Gravity Industries, stated after the Dubai race.
“The world of Marvel superheroes and DC Comics has been brought to life in a way that truly captures the essence of the dream book with CGI,” Browning expressed.
It’s no surprise that the technology comes with a hefty price tag. For those interested in purchasing a custom-made jet suit from Gravity Industries, the price starts at £380,000 ($479,770) plus VAT.
It’s not all about fun and games, though. Gravity Industries has demonstrated how paramedics could use their jetpacks to access difficult mountain locations. They have also proposed its potential use by law enforcement to track down fugitives.
