The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and scientists from chemical maker DuPont and military contractor Raytheon have joined two hospitals in a $90 million partnership to create outfits for future soldiers. The Army has kicked in $50 million and private industry has contributed $40 million.

Their aim is to miniaturise combat equipment using nanotechnology - engineering at the level of atoms and molecules. DuPont, based in Wilmington, Delaware, has become a partner to keep at the forefront of protective gear.

For decades, the company has supplied such equipment to the military, through brands like Nomex and Kevlar, a tough but light fibre which resists shredding and heat. The company also supplies the military with nylon for fatigues, Cordura for battle packs and Coolmax for underwear.

While Kevlar and Nomex represent only three per cent of the $24 billion in total company sales, they are part of DuPont's Safety and Protection business, its fastest-growing and most profitable.