The
supersoldier (or
super soldier) is a concept
soldier, often fictional, capable of operating beyond normal human limits or abilities. Super soldiers are common in
military science fiction literature, films and video games. In 2012,
DARPA was reported to be developing an externally powered XOS exoskeleton design for greatly increased strength and endurance. Fictional supersoldiers are usually heavily
augmented, either through
eugenics,
genetic engineering,
cybernetic implants,
drugs,
brainwashing,
traumatic events, an extreme training regimen or other scientific and
pseudoscientific means. Occasionally, some instances also use
paranormal methods, such as
black magic or technology and science of
extraterrestrial origin. In entertainment, the creators of such programs are viewed often as
mad scientists or stern
military personnel depending on the emphasis, as their programs would typically go past
ethical boundaries in the pursuit of science or military might.