At SOF Week 2025, amidst the hum of innovation and the clatter of next-gen gear demos, one system stood out for its quiet, titanium-backed revolution: the ExoM Up-Armoured Exoskeleton from Mehler Systems. Co-developed with Mawashi Science & Technology and France’s elite GIGN unit, the ExoM isn’t just a concept—it’s a mission-proven solution that’s reshaping how operators carry, move, and recover.
I spoke with the GIGN Operator who wore the suit that was on display at SOF Week and asked him what the biggest benefit was. “After the op, I felt like I could go again. No shoulder fatigue, no back strain—just ready,” he answered with a smile, “it’s amazing how you feel”. But what about maneuverability and especially stairs, I asked, “Well, it took some training, but once I got used to it, no problem. It moves with you and supports you, it’s not like having a ruck on your back that throws your balance off, this moves as a part of you”.
I was sooooooo jealous.
Those quotes sum up the ExoM’s core promise: redistribute up to 70% of gear weight from the shoulders to the ground, while maintaining 99% of natural mobility. Built from titanium and rated to VPAM 8 ballistic protection, the ExoM offers full-body coverage against 7.62×39mm threats without compromising movement.
Technical Breakdown
- Ballistic Rating: VPAM 8, capable of stopping three AK-47 rounds at 10 meters.
- Frame Composition: Lightweight titanium, passive design—no motors or actuators.
- Load Redistribution: Transfers majority of gear weight to the ground via articulated leg supports.
- Mobility: Preserves nearly full range of motion, even under heavy load.
- Modularity: Integrates with existing plate carriers, breaching kits, and comms gear.
Field Insights: GIGN Deployment
The ExoM was tested in urban counter-terrorism drills and breacher scenarios with GIGN, where operators carried full breaching kits, ballistic shields, and extended comms packs. The result? Dramatically reduced fatigue and faster post-mission recovery.
- Recovery Advantage: Operators reported feeling fresh enough for a second mission—an unheard-of benchmark in high-threat environments.
- Ergonomics: The passive frame adapts to body movement, with articulated joints at hips, knees, and ankles.
- Operational Fit: Ideal for long-duration patrols, breacher teams, and high-threat urban deployments.
Tactical Takeaway
The ExoM isn’t about brute strength—it’s about smart endurance. By offloading weight and preserving mobility, it gives elite units like GIGN the edge not just during the mission, but after it. In the Urban Environment where second missions aren’t always optional, recovery is tactical.
For more on Mehler Systems at SOF Week 2025 see below:
Garfield out.
