American intelligence agency IARPA (Intelligence Advanced Research Projects Activity) has announced the start of work on a project to create smart clothing with flexible electronics. The project, called SmartEpants (Smart Electrically Powered and Networked Textile Systems), is the largest investment in the development of “smart textiles” to date, according to IARPA. The goal is to create clothing that looks and feels like any ordinary clothing item, but with the ability to stretch, bend, and even withstand washing.
The result of this initiative will be stylish and reliable clothing, designed for use by employees of American intelligence, the Ministry of Defense, the Ministry of Internal Security, and other relevant bodies. The clothing is expected to assist staff members of various departments and quick response services in dangerous and tense situations, without hindering their ability to act swiftly.
As part of the IARPA project, contracts have been secured with several organizations, including:
- SRI International – a non-profit research institute
- Massachusetts Technological Institute
- Nautilus Defense – a company specializing in integrated systems made from textiles and composites
- Leidos – an IT company operating in the defense and energy sectors
- Areté – a research company
The results of the SmartEpants program will be presented after 42 months of development.