James Rupert "Rhodey" Rhodes operates as War Machine, serving as a specialized armor pilot and military liaison. His background features service as a United States Air Force officer with extensive combat experience. Rhodes functions as Tony Stark's primary tactical support during the development and testing of advanced Stark Industries technology. During a desert equipment trial for Stark's experimental orbital defense platform "The Howard," Rhodes pilots the War Machine armor alongside Stark. Their routine assessment shatters under an unprovoked assault by a techno-organic weapon system commanded by Ezekiel Stane. This hostile entity disables Stark's satellite systems and targets both armored individuals directly. Rhodes sustains critical damage during the clash, resulting in catastrophic armor failure and apparent termination of vital signs. His presumed death ignites Stark's pursuit of Stane. Contrary to initial assessments, Rhodes survives within his compromised armor, preserved in a state of suspended animation. S.H.I.E.L.D. recovers and secures his inert form aboard their Helicarrier. When Ezekiel Stane unleashes the Technovore entity to hijack the Helicarrier, technological disruption reactivates Rhodes' armor systems. He awakens amid the chaos and immediately rejoins the fight. Rhodes coordinates with Stark to neutralize the Technovore threat. He executes precision targeting solutions against Stark's compromised arc reactor when directed, accepting the risk of fatal consequences to eliminate the hostile entity. This action successfully destroys the Technovore while sparing Stark. Following resolution of the incident, Rhodes resumes his duties with no recorded alterations to his operational status or functions.