Chasing RATS

The Strategy Page ^ | 12/18/2009 | The Strategy Page

[ErnstStavroBlofeld]

While the Pentagon may not have been listening to the increasing calls, from the troops, for a militarized smart phone, one defense supplier (Raytheon) has, and resulted in RATS (Raytheon Android Tactical System). Taking advantage of the open source Android operating system (think of it as mobile Linux), and the thousands of applications already available for it, RATS combines this with increasingly powerful, and inexpensive smart phone hardware, to produce something the troops want. Actually, RATS isn't a phone, it's a wi-fi device that looks like one (as does the Ipod Touch). RATS has GPS, a compass, vidcam and software that enables users to connect, and show each others location on the screen. It's also possible to operate robots with RATS, or receive video from a UAV overhead (like the five pound Raven the army uses thousands of.) RATS has mapping software, and the ability to download maps and use them with the wi-fi location system to provide a constantly updated view of where everyone is. Typically, gear like RATS is carried by officers and NCOs down to team (groups of five troops) leaders or vehicle commanders. RATS can also send or receive video or pix. The touch screen makes RATS easy to use in combat. RATS is a development project, but you can see how quickly it could turn into a water and shock proof, encrypted device, ready for the battlefield. Army brass are generally unaware of RATS, but this changes the closer you get to the battlefield. American infantry officers who have fought in Iraq have become tech-heads, courtesy of all the electronic gear combat troops now carry. .

[homegroan]

I love my tax dollars going to our troops-they should have THE best of everything for all that they do. It’s so awesome when they come up with all this high tech stuff for them-I love it!

Good for you,Raytheon!

[bossmechanic]

I agree.
So what’s the closest to this that we can get civilian?
Droid?? Surely something better.