Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Sir, yes, sir: BlackBerry 7 smartphones get DoD approval]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/10/blackberry-7-smartphones-get-dod-army-military-approval/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/10/blackberry-7-smartphones-get-dod-army-military-approval/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/10/blackberry-7-smartphones-get-dod-army-military-approval/#comments Sir, yes, sir: BlackBerry 7 smartphones get DoD approval

Listen up, maggots. Fresh off all the recent hoopla surrounding BlackBerry 10, Research In Motion announced that the U.S. Department of Defense has approved the use of six BlackBerry models on its networks. The smartphones receiving the green light are the BlackBerry Bold 9900 and 9930, BlackBerry Torch 9810, 9850 and 9860, and BlackBerry Curve 9360. RIM added that DoD and Army personnel will be able to use several capabilities added by the military for its BlackBerry users last year, including universal search, near field communications, augmented reality and the potential land mine that is Social Feeds 2.0 (whaddya mean that was classified?). No word on whether a certain BlackBerry user-in-chief will be getting an upgraded version of his device as well. For more details, feel free to march into the PR after the break.

Continue reading Sir, yes, sir: BlackBerry 7 smartphones get DoD approval

Sir, yes, sir: BlackBerry 7 smartphones get DoD approval originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 10 May 2012 21:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armyblackberryblackberry 7BlackBerry Bold 9900BlackBerry Bold 9930BlackBerry Curve 9360BlackBerry Torch 9810BlackBerry Torch 9850BlackBerry Torch 9860Blackberry7department of defenseDepartmentOfDefenseDODmilitarymobilepostcrossmobilepostminiresearch in motionResearchInMotionrimu.s. armyU.s.ArmyThu, 10 May 2012 21:28:00 EST<![CDATA[US Army gets picky, solicits smart feed ammo system for machine guns and auto cannons (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/02/us-army-solicits-smart-feed-ammo-system-for-machine-guns/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/02/us-army-solicits-smart-feed-ammo-system-for-machine-guns/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/02/us-army-solicits-smart-feed-ammo-system-for-machine-guns/#comments Army gets picky, solicits smart feed ammo system for machine guns and auto cannons

War! Huh! What is it good for? Stuff like smart bullet-feeding systems, apparently. See, the US Army isn't quite satisfied with the mixed ammo feed it currently uses with weapons like the helicopter-mounted M230 chain gun. Instead, it wants its machine gunners to be able to freely switch and pick their ammo of choice -- whether it be incendiary rounds or precision-guided smart bullets -- to better match conditions on the field. So the Army is using another weapon in its arsenal -- good, old tax dollars -- to solicit proposals for a smart bullet-feeding system. Initial project goals include near real-time inventorying of ammo, a fire rate of 300 rounds per minute and a selection accuracy rate of 95 percent. Yeah, it's no freaking railgun or tactical laser system. But at least the feeding system can also be used for more peaceful pursuits, like dispensing medical vials or emergency supplies (not via machine gun, of course). In the meantime, folks who want to see a demo of the system's not-so-peaceful applications can check out the video after the break.

Continue reading US Army gets picky, solicits smart feed ammo system for machine guns and auto cannons (video)

US Army gets picky, solicits smart feed ammo system for machine guns and auto cannons (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 02 May 2012 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armyauto cannonAutoCannonmachine gunMachineGunmilitarysmart ammosmart bullet systemsmart bulletssmart feed systemSmartAmmoSmartBulletsu.s. armyU.s.ArmyUS Armyvideowargadgetweaponweapon systemWeaponSystemWed, 02 May 2012 20:01:00 EST<![CDATA[US Navy Fire Scouts will automatically spot pirates, give 30 seconds to comply]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/08/us-navy-fire-scouts-will-automatically-spot-pirates-give-30-sec/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/08/us-navy-fire-scouts-will-automatically-spot-pirates-give-30-sec/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/08/us-navy-fire-scouts-will-automatically-spot-pirates-give-30-sec/#comments US Navy Fire Scouts will automatically spot pirates, give 30 seconds to complyWar. What is it good for? Well, if new use of technology by the US Navy has anything to do with it, finding Pirates for a start. By upgrading its existing Fire Scouts with new 3D laser imaging tech, it's hoped that the drones will be able to recognize the small ships used by these unscrupulous seafarers. The system, known as LIDAR (Light Detection And Ranging, also known as LADAR) uses millions of laser pulses reflected off an object to create the three-dimensional image, which could then referenced against known pirate ships from a database. Ultimately, human operators will make the final call, to avoid any ED-209 style mis-understandings. That said, if you're taking the dingy out past the Californian breakwaters this summer, you might want to keep the stars and stripes in clear view, as that's where the Navy will be running its initial trials.

US Navy Fire Scouts will automatically spot pirates, give 30 seconds to comply originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 08 Apr 2012 09:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3d image3dImagearmydefensedroneFire ScoutFireScoutLADARlaserLIDARmilitaryMQ-8MQ-8 Fire ScoutMq-8FireScoutMQ-9navypiratesreaperrobotrobot apocalypseRobotApocalypseuacuavunmanned aerial vehicleunmanned aircraftUnmannedAerialVehicleUnmannedAirUnmannedAircraftus navyUsNavywargadgetSun, 08 Apr 2012 09:24:00 EST<![CDATA[US Army grants HP $249 million contract to deploy private cloud services]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/03/us-army-grants-hp-249-million-contract/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/03/us-army-grants-hp-249-million-contract/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/03/us-army-grants-hp-249-million-contract/#comments ImageHP is in the Army now. Today, the Palo Alto company announced that it has received a $249 million contract to provide the Department of Defense and other federal agencies with enterprise level cloud computing services. The new initiative will allow the military to consolidate its existing data centers, and the services will be deployed to a number of commercial and government-owned buildings. HP will also provide the military with Performance-Optimized Data Centers (PODs) for quick deployment into tactical situations. Under the terms of the Army Private Cloud contract, HP will work with ten small businesses and Alabama A&M University to help actualize the private cloud and its requirements. We can only assume that Meg Whitman is glad to start out the month with a bit of walking-around money. You'll find the full PR after the break.

Continue reading US Army grants HP $249 million contract to deploy private cloud services

US Army grants HP $249 million contract to deploy private cloud services originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 03 Apr 2012 17:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armyArmy Private Cloud contractArmyPrivateCloudContractcloudcloud computingCloudComputingcontractdepartment of defenseDepartmentOfDefenseenterprisehpmilitaryus armyUsArmywarwargadgetTue, 03 Apr 2012 17:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Boston Dynamics lies down with BigDog, gets giant fleas (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/28/boston-dynamics-lies-down-with-bigdog-gets-giant-fleas-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/28/boston-dynamics-lies-down-with-bigdog-gets-giant-fleas-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/28/boston-dynamics-lies-down-with-bigdog-gets-giant-fleas-video/#comments ImageRemember what it was like when you first fell in love with Boston Dynamics' rocky terrain traversing BigDog robot? Get ready to fall in love all over again. Meet the Sand Flea, a plucky little 11-pound robot that can jump a mind-boggling 30 feet in a single bound, while an on-board stabilization system helps make landings a bit smoother. The RC four-wheeler's development is being funded by the Army's Rapid Equipping Force. Your move, iRobot. Check out some rad video of the big-wheeled 'bot after the break.

Continue reading Boston Dynamics lies down with BigDog, gets giant fleas (video)

Boston Dynamics lies down with BigDog, gets giant fleas (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 28 Mar 2012 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armyboston dynamicsBostonDynamicsfleajumpingleapingsandsand fleaSandFleaWed, 28 Mar 2012 14:57:00 EST<![CDATA[US Army debuts app marketplace prototype: iOS first, Android coming soon]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/23/us-army-app-prototype-oficially-announced/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/23/us-army-app-prototype-oficially-announced/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/23/us-army-app-prototype-oficially-announced/#comments Image
The promise of an Army app store has been bandied about for quite a while now, but it looks like it's slowly becoming a reality. The US Army has today officially announced a prototype of the Army Software Marketplace, a web-based app store that currently includes twelve different training apps that have been approved for Army-wide use. That includes just iOS apps initially, but the Army promises that it will soon include apps for Android devices as well. It's also of course looking to expand considerably beyond those dozen odd apps, noting that the prototype is just "a first step in establishing and exercising new submission and approval processes that will eventually enable Army members, organizations and third-party developers to release applications for Army-wide distribution." And you thought the approval process for some of the current app stores was stringent.

[Thanks, Souheil]

US Army debuts app marketplace prototype: iOS first, Android coming soon originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 23 Mar 2012 20:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappapp marketplaceapp storeAppMarketplaceappsAppStorearmyArmy Software MarketplaceArmySoftwareMarketplaceiosmarketplacemobilepostcrossstoreus armyUsArmyFri, 23 Mar 2012 20:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Pain Gun vs. Reporter round two, reporter left feelin' hot, hot, hot (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/13/pain-gun-vs-reporter-two/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/13/pain-gun-vs-reporter-two/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/13/pain-gun-vs-reporter-two/#comments
You may not recall when 60 Minutes' David Martin took a shot at the Pain Gun, but it didn't end well for the fleshy anchorman. Now Wired's Spencer Ackerman's having a go, with similarly one-sided results. The Pentagon's sanguinely-named Active Denial System turns electricity into millimeter-wave radio frequency, silently pumping out 95GHz of searing hot agony from distances of 2,500 feet. The project's still got a few issues, namely that it takes 16 hours to boot up, uses a heck of a lot of energy and stops working if it's raining, snowing or dusty. But, you know, it'll be back when the air clears up, and you probably don't want to be around when it arrives. If you'd like to see the score go 2-0 to the weaponized microwave, head on past the break.

Continue reading Pain Gun vs. Reporter round two, reporter left feelin' hot, hot, hot (video)

Pain Gun vs. Reporter round two, reporter left feelin' hot, hot, hot (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 13 Mar 2012 09:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Active Denial SystemActiveDenialSystemAir ForceAirForceArmyMicrowaveMilitaryPain GunPain RayPainGunPainRayPentagonRaytheonSpencer AckermanSpencerAckermanvideoWargadgetWiredTue, 13 Mar 2012 09:41:00 EST<![CDATA[CTA Digital unleashes official US Army gaming peripherals, gets your adrenaline pumping]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/06/cta-digital-us-army-accessories/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/06/cta-digital-us-army-accessories/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/06/cta-digital-us-army-accessories/#comments Although this time it isn't the inflatable Wii accessory you fell deeply in love with, CTA Digital's bringing you something a bit more on the rugged and wild side -- à la Rambo. In a partnership with the US Army, the company's unveiling a flood of official gaming accessories to make you feel like you're part of our nation's bravest. The arsenal of peripherals -- which cover PC and console gamers -- will include a US Army Elite Force Assault Rifle, Sniper Action Rifle, Commando Assault Rifle and a Universal Gaming Headset for all your smack talking, just to mention a few. There's no word on how much damage the shooters and co. will do, and retailer availability will be coming "soon." Full game compatibility and other deets can be found in the PR below.

Continue reading CTA Digital unleashes official US Army gaming peripherals, gets your adrenaline pumping

CTA Digital unleashes official US Army gaming peripherals, gets your adrenaline pumping originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 06 Jan 2012 02:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armyctacta digitalCtaDigitalkinectPC GamingPcGamingplaystation movePlaystationMoveps movePsMoveus armyUsArmyxbox 360Xbox360Fri, 06 Jan 2012 02:33:00 EST<![CDATA[IED attack simulator prepares US soldiers prior to Afghan deployment]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/04/ied-attack-simulator-prepares-soldiers/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/04/ied-attack-simulator-prepares-soldiers/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/04/ied-attack-simulator-prepares-soldiers/#comments A new simulation exercise is now in place for US troops at the Camp Atterbury Joint Maneuver Training Center near Edinburgh, Indiana. Built primarily from off-the-shelf components, the system is designed to better prepare soldiers for the physical and psychological challenges of IED attacks, which are currently the number one threat to military personnel stationed in Afghanistan. Situated inside a mounted vehicle and positioned in front of a large screen, service members are exposed to jarring explosions, smoke, noise and poor visibility -- all common occurrences of IED assaults. The system records the entire nightmarish scenario, which allows participants to review their performance and learn from their mistakes.

For soldiers who've never been to Afghanistan, the simulator will also be used to familiarize troops with the war zone terrain and other situations they may encounter along the way. Just how realistic is the IED simulation? According to Spc. Darren J. Ganier-Slotterbeck, "I deployed in 2005, 2007 and 2008 with the Marines. I've been blown up multiple times, and it definitely brought back memories. I was a little shaky when I got out of that thing. I'm not going to lie." He went on to say, "If we'd had the ability to go through training like this at the time, those deployments would have been a lot different." Sounds scary. We're not going to lie.

IED attack simulator prepares US soldiers prior to Afghan deployment originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 04 Jan 2012 07:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armed forcesArmedForcesarmyatterburybattlebattlefieldcamp atterburyCampAtterburyiedimprovised explosive deviceImprovisedExplosiveDevicemilitarymilitary techMilitaryTechsimulationsimulatortacticalus armyUsArmywarwargadgetWed, 04 Jan 2012 07:32:00 EST<![CDATA[US Army's A160 Hummingbird drone-copter to don 1.8 gigapixel camera]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/27/us-armys-a160-hummingbird-drone-copter-to-don-1-8-gigapixel-cam/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/27/us-armys-a160-hummingbird-drone-copter-to-don-1-8-gigapixel-cam/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/27/us-armys-a160-hummingbird-drone-copter-to-don-1-8-gigapixel-cam/#comments Starting in July of 2012, the United States Army will deploy three Boeing A160 Hummingbird drones to Afghanistan as part of a one-year trial program. Unlike the Predator drones already in combat, the A160 is a rotor-based aircraft capable of vertical take-offs and landings. What's more, the craft will be affixed with the DARPA-developed ARGUS-IS imaging system -- which boasts a 1.8 gigapixel camera the Army says can "track people and vehicles from altitudes above 20,000 feet." The A160 Hummingbird platform will provide the Army with the ability and flexibility to: take off and land without a runway; fly for twelve hours or more without refueling; and monitor up to 65 enemies of the State simultaneously. Test flights of the unmanned chopper are scheduled for early 2012 in Arizona, but residents hoping to get a glimpse of the A160 in action best have great eyesight -- the ARGUS-IS system can see targets from almost 25 miles down range. Oh, and don't forget to smile when you look up. You want to look your best for the eye in the sky, right?

US Army's A160 Hummingbird drone-copter to don 1.8 gigapixel camera originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 27 Dec 2011 23:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.8 gigapixel1.8GigapixelA160a160 hummingbirdA160HummingbirdARGUSargus-isarmedArmyDARPAdroneforcesgigapixelhelicopterStatesUAVUnitedUnited StatesUnitedStatesunmanned aerial vehicleUnmannedAerialVehicleus armyUsArmyvertical takeoff and landingVerticalTakeoffAndLandingvtolVTOL-UASwargadgetTue, 27 Dec 2011 23:34:00 EST<![CDATA[DARPA to develop biometric sensor capable of seeing through walls, pulling your heartstrings]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/21/darpa-to-develop-biometric-sensor-capable-of-seeing-through-wall/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/21/darpa-to-develop-biometric-sensor-capable-of-seeing-through-wall/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/21/darpa-to-develop-biometric-sensor-capable-of-seeing-through-wall/#comments The feds may soon know the way to your heart. Literally. Earlier this month, the forward-thinkers over at DARPA announced plans to develop new technologies capable of identifying human life through walls. The program, known as "Biometrics-at-a-distance," would essentially combine two pre-existing Pentagon projects: the Radar Scope, a device that can see through walls, and 2009's LifeReader, a system that uses Doppler radar to detect heartbeats. Though the military already employs a handful of devices to help soldiers see humans from behind walls, DARPA apparently thinks there's room for improvement. Most contemporary technologies, for example, only work from a maximum distance of eight meters, and aren't as accurate within more densely populated areas. DARPA wants its next project to extend this range beyond ten meters, while sharpening its ability to penetrate thicker obstructions. The agency also wants its sensor to identify individual humans using electrocardiography, which traces the heart's electrical activity. According to DARPA, this could allow users to pinpoint up to ten people at the same time, which could pay dividends during disaster rescue efforts, military operations, or your next Eyes Wide Shut party.

DARPA to develop biometric sensor capable of seeing through walls, pulling your heartstrings originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 21 Nov 2011 17:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armybiometricbiometric IDBiometricIdbiometrics at a distanceBiometricsAtADistanceconceptDARPAelectrocardiographyfederalfedsgovernmentheartheartbeathumanlifereadermilitarypentagonprojectradarradar scopeRadarScopescansensortechnologywallswarwargadgetMon, 21 Nov 2011 17:54:00 EST<![CDATA[DARPA tests advanced hypersonic weapon prototype, makes railgun sweat]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/18/darpa-tests-advanced-hypersonic-weapon-prototype-makes-railgun/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/18/darpa-tests-advanced-hypersonic-weapon-prototype-makes-railgun/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/18/darpa-tests-advanced-hypersonic-weapon-prototype-makes-railgun/#comments

The US Army completed testing of its hypersonic weapon yesterday, launching a test projectile across the Pacific Ocean. The glider flies at a lower trajectory than typical missiles, traveling at several times the speed of sound, making it capable of hitting anywhere on this peaceful ball of blue and green within an hour. We saw DARPA's hypersonic aircraft's successful launch earlier this year -- the Falcon HTV-2 (pictured above) managed to hit the dizzying speed of Mach 20 during its tests, before it crashed. Despite recent military funding issues in the US government, hopefully all things hypersonic will get to fly again soon.

DARPA tests advanced hypersonic weapon prototype, makes railgun sweat originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 18 Nov 2011 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Advanced Hypersonic WeaponAdvancedHypersonicWeaponarmyDARPAFalcon HTV-2FalconHtv-2hypersonicmilitarymissileprojectilespeed of soundSpeedOfSoundUS armyUsArmywargadgetweapon systemsWeaponSystemsFri, 18 Nov 2011 14:31:00 EST<![CDATA[U.S. Army urges vets to get outta their dreams and into the virtual world]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/22/u-s-army-urges-vets-to-get-outta-their-dreams-and-into-the-virt/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/22/u-s-army-urges-vets-to-get-outta-their-dreams-and-into-the-virt/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/22/u-s-army-urges-vets-to-get-outta-their-dreams-and-into-the-virt/#comments You've heard of power walking, but "power dreaming?" That practice's usually the stuff of Buddhism, and now, could go a long way towards mending the psychic wounds of our nation's bravest. With about 52% of PTSD-affected veterans reported as having disturbing nightmares, the U.S. Army's working towards a virtual solution that'd marry the design of Second Life with laptop-displayed or 3D head-mounted, physio-emotional healing. The project, a form of biofeedback therapy which would create custom, stress-alleviating imagery for traumatized vets, is currently in the planning stage with Washington State's Naval Hospital serving as its experimental base. Over half a million in funding's already been put towards the effort which is expected to launch in full next year. And when it does, we're hoping the tech resembles a certain Strange Days SQUID recorder -- with happy thoughts, o'course.

U.S. Army urges vets to get outta their dreams and into the virtual world originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 22 Oct 2011 00:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Armybiofeedbackpower dreamingPowerDreamingPTSDPTSD helpPtsdHelpU S ArmyUSArmyveteransvetsSat, 22 Oct 2011 00:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Giant tablet lets commanders control war with the swipe of a finger]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/13/giant-tablet-lets-commanders-control-war-with-the-swipe-of-a-fin/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/13/giant-tablet-lets-commanders-control-war-with-the-swipe-of-a-fin/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/13/giant-tablet-lets-commanders-control-war-with-the-swipe-of-a-fin/#comments America's armed forces have added some major tech to their arsenal lately, from smartphones for soldiers to giant surveillance blimps. And now, AAI has unveiled a new tool for battlefield commanders in the form of giant touchscreen tablet. Its screen is three feet by two feet and employs surveillance information to give those in charge an overhead view of a war zone that shows the position of both good guys and bad. Icons represent troops, air support, and spy drones, which are then deployed by tapping and dragging them on the touchscreen. Such input doesn't actually control battlefield assets, but it does send orders to the appropriate personnel so they can be executed, and soldiers confirm receipt of the order via instant message. The company's still trying to sell the system to the Army, but we'd imagine that such drag and drop warfare will appeal to Uncle Sam. Who knows, perhaps all those hours spent honing your Starcraft skills can soon be put to good use defending the country.

[Image credit: Spencer Ackerman]

Giant tablet lets commanders control war with the swipe of a finger originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 13 Oct 2011 08:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aaiarmed forcesArmedForcesarmybattlebattlefieldmilitarymilitary techMilitaryTechslatesurveillancetablettacticalus armyUsArmywarwargadgetThu, 13 Oct 2011 08:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Raytheon shows off TransTalk speech translator for Android, hopes to find a home in the Army's app store]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/11/raytheon-shows-off-transtalk-speech-translator-for-android-hope/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/11/raytheon-shows-off-transtalk-speech-translator-for-android-hope/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/11/raytheon-shows-off-transtalk-speech-translator-for-android-hope/#comments
We've already heard about some of the smartphone apps that may or may not eventually find their way into the Army's own app store, and Raytheon is now hoping that it'll be tapped it to provide a key one. As Wired's Danger Room reports, the company has developed a new version of its TransTalk app for Android phones, which is able to translate speech from English to Arabic, Dari and Pashto (and vice versa). Since it's designed specifically for the Army, the app is geared towards translating phrases commonly used by soldiers on patrol, and it's also able to display and store the conversation as text. Just don't count on it hitting the Android Market anytime soon -- while the app runs on off-the-shelf Android hardware (a Motorola Atrix, in this case), there's no plans for it to be made available to the general public.

Raytheon shows off TransTalk speech translator for Android, hopes to find a home in the Army's app store originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 11 Oct 2011 10:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidarmydepartment of defenseDepartmentOfDefensedodmilitarymobilepostcrossspeechtranslationtranslatortranstalkus armyUsArmyTue, 11 Oct 2011 10:47:00 EST<![CDATA[K-MAX unmanned chopper delivers Air Force salute to Afghan danger (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/06/k-max-robotic-chopper-delivers-airmans-salute-to-afghan-danger/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/06/k-max-robotic-chopper-delivers-airmans-salute-to-afghan-danger/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/06/k-max-robotic-chopper-delivers-airmans-salute-to-afghan-danger/#comments It's a year since Lockheed Martin won the contract to provide an unmanned cargo delivery system to the US military and now its first K-MAX helicopter is just about ready for duty. The 6,000-pound RC chopper is scheduled to journey to the manifold fronts of Afghanistan next month, where it'll get busy ferrying its own bodyweight in ammo and supplies to needy anthills up to 200km away. And, if things get too sticky for laptop flying, there's always room for a brave soul to jump in there and grab the controls. You'll find a fresh demo video after the break, plus we've also stuck in that fancy clip from last year to rotor your memory.

Continue reading K-MAX unmanned chopper delivers Air Force salute to Afghan danger (video)

K-MAX unmanned chopper delivers Air Force salute to Afghan danger (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 06 Oct 2011 08:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ArmychopperhelicopterK-MAXKamanLockheedNavyRCunmannedUS ArmyUS NavyUsArmyUsNavywar gadgetwargadgetThu, 06 Oct 2011 08:10:00 EST<![CDATA[DARPA's Maple leaf Remote Control drone takes first flight (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/11/darpas-maple-leaf-remote-control-drone-takes-first-flight-vide/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/11/darpas-maple-leaf-remote-control-drone-takes-first-flight-vide/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/11/darpas-maple-leaf-remote-control-drone-takes-first-flight-vide/#comments After five years behind locked doors, researchers at Lockheed Martin's Intelligent Robotics Laboratories in New Jersey have emerged with a working prototype of the "Samarai," a tiny DARPA-commissioned surveillance drone. The nano air vehicles (NAVs), modeled after falling Maple leaf seeds, are designed to be super light weight and agile for vertical lift off, hovering, and navigation in tight spaces. Like your favorite $5 Subway sammie, these surveillance bots are a foot long, but instead of being shoveled in your mouth, they're thrown like boomerangs into flight and controlled using a tablet app or a basic remote. These eyes in the sky will officially launch next week at the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International Conference, but until then you can check out the video of their first flight below.

Update: Lockheed Martin wrote in to let us know that although originally commissioned by DARPA, this project is currently funded internally. Lockheed also noted that the flight recorded in the video is only a test flight, rather than a first flight for the Samarai.

Continue reading DARPA's Maple leaf Remote Control drone takes first flight (video)

DARPA's Maple leaf Remote Control drone takes first flight (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 11 Aug 2011 21:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armyassociation for unmanned vehicle systems international conferencAssociationForUnmannedVehicleSystemsInternationalConferencedarpadroneintelligenceLockheed Martin Corplockheed martin intelligent roboticsLockheedMartinLockheedMartinCorpLockheedMartinIntelligentRoboticsMaple LeafsMapleLeafsnano air vehicleNanoAirVehicleNAVNAVsrobotrobotssamaraisoldierssurveillanceUAVuavsunmanned vehicle systsmes internationall conferenceUnmannedVehicleSystsmesInternationallConferencevideoThu, 11 Aug 2011 21:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Cam-wielding RC car used to investigate roadside bomb, saves lives in Afghanistan]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/08/cam-wielding-rc-car-used-to-investigate-roadside-bomb-saves-liv/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/08/cam-wielding-rc-car-used-to-investigate-roadside-bomb-saves-liv/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/08/cam-wielding-rc-car-used-to-investigate-roadside-bomb-saves-liv/#comments
The US military spends billions of dollars each year beefing up wartime tech, but a low-budget hacked RC car recently served as an unlikely hero, saving six soliders' lives in Afghanistan. The home-built rig, which included a wireless security camera mounted on a Traxxas Stampede remote-controlled truck, cost about $500 when it was built in 2007. Since then, Army Staff Sgt. Christopher Fessenden has used it to locate roadside bombs, until it tripped a detonation sensor during a patrol last month, in turn saving Fessenden and fellow troops from coming head-to-head with 500 pounds of explosives. Unfortunately the RC cam didn't survive the attack, so Ernie, the solider's brother who built the first model, is currently working on a replacement. Sure, a half-grand may seem like a laughable sum compared to the Pentagon's annual budget, but if the proven gadget gets enough attention, perhaps Chinese-made toys will play a role in entertaining our kids, and protecting our troops.

Cam-wielding RC car used to investigate roadside bomb, saves lives in Afghanistan originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 08 Aug 2011 10:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armycamcamcordercameracamerascamsmilitarypentagonrc carrc truckRcCarRcTruckremoteremote controlledremote-controlledremote-controlled carRemote-controlledCarRemoteControlledsecurity cameraSecurityCameraTraxxas StampedeTraxxasStampedeus armyUsArmyvideo cameraVideoCamerawargadgetMon, 08 Aug 2011 10:55:00 EST<![CDATA[US Army wants thermally adaptive shirts, less of that nasty B-O]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/02/us-army-wants-thermally-adaptive-shirts-less-of-that-b-o/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/02/us-army-wants-thermally-adaptive-shirts-less-of-that-b-o/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/02/us-army-wants-thermally-adaptive-shirts-less-of-that-b-o/#comments

War-making apparel is about functionality just as much as fashion. That's why the US Army is offering a cool $1million in research funds to anyone who can help realize its dream of "thermally responsive textiles." The ultimate goal is clothing that automatically tailors itself to rapid changes in ambient and body temperature, thereby removing the need for alternative garments and reducing the weight and 'cube' of a soldier's payload. So-called smart fabrics have already been demonstrated by army scientists, based on comfy-sounding metallic fibers that curl up when it's cold and straighten out when it's warm. That sort of technology just needs to be reworked to make it practical and laundry-safe. We don't want those strong colors bleeding out in the wash, because as the line goes: if you're going to fight, you might as well clash.

US Army wants thermally adaptive shirts, less of that nasty B-O originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 02 Aug 2011 09:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apparelarmybody temperatureBodyTemperatureclothingfeedbackmilitarymilitary researchMilitaryResearchresearchsoldierstemperaturethermalthermally adaptiveThermallyAdaptiveus armyUsArmyTue, 02 Aug 2011 09:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Wireless snooping WASP drone knows you want extra jalapeños, no sliced tomato]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/01/wireless-snooping-wasp-drone-knows-you-want-extra-jalapenos-no/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/01/wireless-snooping-wasp-drone-knows-you-want-extra-jalapenos-no/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/01/wireless-snooping-wasp-drone-knows-you-want-extra-jalapenos-no/#comments This fearsome contraption is the handiwork of a couple of amateur DEFCON-types who reckoned that any self-respecting spy plane ought to be able to impersonate cellphone towers. And that's exactly what the Wireless Aerial Surveillance Platform does -- it tricks AT&T and T-Mobile handsets into connecting to it, then re-routes the incoming calls via VOIP so they don't drop, while simultaneously recording all conversations to 32GB of onboard storage. It can also handle a bit of WiFi snooping on the side, thanks to a Linux-based hacking toolkit and a 340 million word dictionary for guessing passwords. What's more, the WASP apparently achieves all of this without breaking a single FCC regulation. So, er, that's fine then. Oh yeah, and we don't want any of that stuffed crust nonsense, you hear?

Wireless snooping WASP drone knows you want extra jalapeños, no sliced tomato originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 01 Aug 2011 05:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aircraftairplanearmycellphonecellphone towercellphonesCellphoneTowerdefcondronehackingmilitaryphone hackingPhoneHackingplanesnoopingspyspy dronespy planeSpyDronespyingSpyPlanesurveillancesurveillance droneSurveillanceDroneUAVwaspwifi snoopingWifiSnoopingMon, 01 Aug 2011 05:01:00 EST<![CDATA[US Army runs smartphone trial, could see 'limited deployment' later this year]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/16/us-army-runs-smartphone-trial-could-see-limited-deployment-la/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/16/us-army-runs-smartphone-trial-could-see-limited-deployment-la/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/16/us-army-runs-smartphone-trial-could-see-limited-deployment-la/#comments US Army runs smartphone trial, could see 'limited deployment' later this year Sure, the US Army could continue to develop expensive proprietary gadgets for use in the field, or they could make the switch to (relatively) inexpensive off-the-shelf smartphones. It's a change that's been considered for some time, and the Army is now at the tail end of a six-week trial of more than 300 Android, iPhone, and Windows Phone devices for military use. The results have been promising, according to program director Michael McCarthy, stating that younger soldiers who grew up with smartphones and handhelds are very comfortable using them for military purposes.

Soldiers in the field can text GPS coordinates, send pictures of their surroundings, or file common reports directly from their phone. Despite positive results, the Army still has some hurdles to jump before taking the plunge -- some of the phones had OS bugs, others (specifically, iPhones running on AT&T) couldn't get signal in the New Mexico and Texas testing areas, and none of the devices were secure enough for use in overseas operations. The Army is considering tying the phones to tactical radios to help encrypt transmissions, and are testing self contained "cell tower in a suitcase" equipment to ensure coverage in sensitive locations. The Military hopes to push out limited deployment this year, and Army program director Ed Mazzanti has stated that they expect to select two mobile operating systems for official use, noting that "iPhone and Android have been very well received." Sure, using multiple platforms may help protect soldiers against cyber attacks, but we can't be the only ones worried the Army is unintentionally breeding a generation of fanboys with guns, can we?

US Army runs smartphone trial, could see 'limited deployment' later this year originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 16 Jul 2011 19:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappappleappsarmed forcesArmedForcesarmygoogleiosipadiphonemilitarymilitary smartphonesmilitary techMilitarySmartphonesMilitaryTechsmartphonesmartphonessoldierssurveillancetacticalUAVus armyUsArmywargadgetSat, 16 Jul 2011 19:24:00 EST<![CDATA[US Army testing haptic belt that nudges soldiers in the right direction]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/30/us-army-testing-haptic-belt-that-nudges-soldiers-in-the-right-di/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/30/us-army-testing-haptic-belt-that-nudges-soldiers-in-the-right-di/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/30/us-army-testing-haptic-belt-that-nudges-soldiers-in-the-right-di/#commentsHaptic belts and other wearable devices that can guide you may not exactly be a new idea -- we've even seen some DIY attempts -- but the US Army testing them? Well, that's something worth noting. As New Scientist reports, the Army Research Office in North Carolina is now working on just such a device (likely more advanced than the one pictured here), and hopes that the belts could eventually be used to remotely guide soldiers on the battlefield. That's done with a combination of GPS, an accelerometer and a compass -- and, of course, the haptic part of the equation, which vibrates or pulses to point the soldier in the right direction, or indicate when they're nearing their target. The idea there being to reduce the need for any handheld devices (at least until thought helmets become a reality), which can both take the soldiers' eyes off the battlefield and potentially reveal their position at night. There's still no indication as to when the belts might actually see use in the field, but early tests show that they're at least as accurate as a handheld GPS, and the soldiers say they actually prefer it.

[Image credit: Sreekar Krishna]

US Army testing haptic belt that nudges soldiers in the right direction originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 30 Jun 2011 00:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armyarmy research officeArmyResearchOfficebelthaptichaptic beltHapticBeltsoldiersoldiersus armyUsArmywargadgetThu, 30 Jun 2011 00:52:00 EST<![CDATA[Rescue robots map and explore dangerous buildings, prove there's no 'I' in 'team' (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/17/rescue-robots-map-and-explore-dangerous-buildings-prove-theres/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/17/rescue-robots-map-and-explore-dangerous-buildings-prove-theres/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/17/rescue-robots-map-and-explore-dangerous-buildings-prove-theres/#comments We've seen robots do some pretty heroic things in our time, but engineers from Georgia Tech, the University of Pennsylvania and Cal Tech have now developed an entire fleet of autonomous rescue vehicles, capable of simultaneously mapping and exploring potentially dangerous buildings -- without allowing their egos to get in the way. Each wheeled bot measures just one square foot in size, carries a video camera capable of identifying doorways, and uses an on-board laser scanner to analyze walls. Once gathered, these data are processed using a technique known as simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM), which allows each bot to create maps of both familiar and unknown environments, while constantly recording and reporting its current location (independently of GPS). And, perhaps best of all, these rescue Roombas are pretty team-oriented. Georgia Tech professor Henrik Christensen explains:

"There is no lead robot, yet each unit is capable of recruiting other units to make sure the entire area is explored. When the first robot comes to an intersection, it says to a second robot, 'I'm going to go to the left if you go to the right.'"

This egalitarian robot army is the spawn of a research initiative known as the Micro Autonomous Systems and Technology (MAST) Collaborative Technology Alliance Program, sponsored by the US Army Research Laboratory. The ultimate goal is to shrink the bots down even further and to expand their capabilities. Engineers have already begun integrating infrared sensors into their design and are even developing small radar modules capable of seeing through walls. Roll past the break for a video of the vehicles in action, along with full PR.

Continue reading Rescue robots map and explore dangerous buildings, prove there's no 'I' in 'team' (video)

Rescue robots map and explore dangerous buildings, prove there's no 'I' in 'team' (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 17 May 2011 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armybuildingCal TechCalifornia Institute of TechnologyCaliforniaInstituteOfTechnologyCalTechcombatengineeringgeorgia techGeorgiaTechGPSmappingmapsMASTMAST programMastProgramrescuerescue robotRescueRobotresearchrobotroboticsSlamuniversity of pennsylvaniaUniversityOfPennsylvaniavideowarTue, 17 May 2011 17:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Apache's new infrared targeting system spots foes when they fire, doesn't wait for the smoke]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/02/apaches-new-infrared-targeting-system-spots-foes-when-they-fire/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/02/apaches-new-infrared-targeting-system-spots-foes-when-they-fire/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/02/apaches-new-infrared-targeting-system-spots-foes-when-they-fire/#commentsApache Longbow Attack Helicopter It just keeps getting harder for America's enemies to hide from the technological marvel that is the modern US military. A new ground fire acquisition system (GFAS), coming to Apache Attack helicopters next spring, uses infrared sensors to detect muzzle flashes from small arms fire and pinpoint enemy positions to within five meters. Before the sound would have a chance to reach current acoustics-based sensors the source of the shot pops up on the targeting computer, is sent back to commanders in the Operations Center, relayed to ground troops, and fed to other aircraft -- by the time they're able to pull the trigger again combatants may already be on the wrong side of a Hellfire missile. The new system will make spotting opposing forces easier and keep pilots as safe as they can be -- at least until missions can be flown from the comfort of their couch.

Apache's new infrared targeting system spots foes when they fire, doesn't wait for the smoke originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 02 May 2011 13:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AH-64AH-64 ApacheAh-64Apacheapacheapache attack helicopterapache longbowapache longbow attack helicopterApacheAttackHelicopterApacheLongbowApacheLongbowAttackHelicopterarmyboeingboeing AH-64 apacheBoeingAh-64Apachegfasground fire acquisition systemGroundFireAcquisitionSysteminfraredmilitarytargeting systemTargetingSystemwargadgetweaponweaponsMon, 02 May 2011 13:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Army app store advances, tries to break through bureaucracy's defenses]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/28/army-app-store-advances-tries-to-break-through-bureaucracys-de/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/28/army-app-store-advances-tries-to-break-through-bureaucracys-de/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/28/army-app-store-advances-tries-to-break-through-bureaucracys-de/#commentsArmy Marketplace The Army Marketplace may be mired in bureaucratic muck, but the depot for mobile military apps isn't simply stagnating in a stack of paperwork somewhere. Developers and commanders are still pushing forward with the project and hoping for the best. There are already 17 apps for Android and 16 for iPhones, created as part of the Apps for the Army contest last year, and designers have whipped up prototypes for the homepage (above) and personalized user pages (after the break) where soldiers can post ideas for apps, request features from devs, and write reviews. The chief of the Army's Mobile Applications Branch, Lt. Col. Gregory Motes, hopes the Marketplace will make its debut at LandWarNet in August, even if there won't be any approved smartphones to access it for several months after that. At least the military claim one victory, when its app store launches it'll already have more titles than TegraZone.

Continue reading Army app store advances, tries to break through bureaucracy's defenses

Army app store advances, tries to break through bureaucracy's defenses originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 28 Apr 2011 12:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappapp storeappsAppStorearmyarmy marketplaceArmyMarketplaceiosiphonemarketplacemilitarymy marketplaceMyMarketplaceu.s. armyU.s.Armyus armyus army marketplaceUsArmyUsArmyMarketplacewargadgetThu, 28 Apr 2011 12:18:00 EST<![CDATA[US Army developing Android-based smartphone framework and apps]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/22/us-army-developing-android-based-smartphone-framework-and-apps/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/22/us-army-developing-android-based-smartphone-framework-and-apps/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/22/us-army-developing-android-based-smartphone-framework-and-apps/#comments The US Army is calling upon Android app developers to help make military life a little less stressful -- and, perhaps, a lot safer. Under a new Army framework known as the Mobile/Handheld Computing Environment (CE), third-party developers will be able to create and submit tactical Android apps, using the military's CE Product Developer's Kit. The framework, originally prototyped by the folks over at MITRE, represents the latest phase in the Army's ongoing campaign to incorporate smartphone technology on the battlefield. Any app operating under the CE system will be interoperable across all command systems, and, as you'd expect, will be tightly secured. The kit won't be released to developers until July, but the Army has already begun tinkering with its baseline suite of Mission Command apps, which includes tools designed to facilitate mapping, blue force tracking, and Tactical Ground Reporting. On the hardware side of the equation, the Army is planning to deploy a new handheld known as the Joint Battle Command-Platform, or JBC-P. The two-pound JBC-P is essentially a military-friendly smartphone designed to run on a variety of existing radio networks, while supporting the full suite of forthcoming apps. The JBC-P will be tested this October, and will likely be issued on a wider basis in 2013.

US Army developing Android-based smartphone framework and apps originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 22 Apr 2011 11:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidApplicationappsarmydev kitdeveloperdevelopers kitDevelopersKitdevelopmentDevKitdroidframeworkFront LinesFrontLineshandheldjbc-pkitmilitaryMilitaryTechmitreMitreCorporationsmartphonethird-partyTIGRus armyUsArmywarwargadgetFri, 22 Apr 2011 11:19:00 EST<![CDATA[SA Photonics high-res digital night vision system makes you look like Hello Kitty's cyborg cousin]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/22/sa-photonics-high-res-digital-night-vision-system-makes-you-look/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/22/sa-photonics-high-res-digital-night-vision-system-makes-you-look/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/22/sa-photonics-high-res-digital-night-vision-system-makes-you-look/#comments Given, it might make you look like the love child of Robocop and a cartoon kitten, but SA Photonics' High Resolution Night Vision System (HRNVS) could mean smoother night flights for the US military. The light weight head mounted display couples high resolution imagery and an impressive 82.5 degree field of vision -- previous devices offered a range of only 40 degrees. What's more, it provides clearer peripheral vision, virtually non-existent halo effects, digital image enhancement, and night vision recording. The headset was designed in collaboration with the US Army and the Air Force Research Laboratory, which means these robo Sanrio helmets might actually get some play. Full PR after the break.

Continue reading SA Photonics high-res digital night vision system makes you look like Hello Kitty's cyborg cousin

SA Photonics high-res digital night vision system makes you look like Hello Kitty's cyborg cousin originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 22 Apr 2011 03:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AirforceArmyhigh reshigh resolutionhigh resolution imagingHigh Resolution Night Vision SystemHighResHighResolutionHighResolutionImagingHighResolutionNightVisionSystemHRNVSmilitarynight visionNight vision gogglesNightVisionNightVisionGogglesSA PhotonicsSA Photonics HRNVSSaPhotonicsSaPhotonicsHrnvsUS Air ForceUS Armyus militaryUsAirForceUsArmyUsMilitarywarwargadgetFri, 22 Apr 2011 03:48:00 EST<![CDATA[US government contractor developing 'microwave gun,' Hot Pockets tremble]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/16/us-government-contractor-developing-microwave-gun-hot-pockets/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/16/us-government-contractor-developing-microwave-gun-hot-pockets/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/16/us-government-contractor-developing-microwave-gun-hot-pockets/#comments
Ah, the beloved "electronic bomb," able to disable all technology in its vicinity: variations on the concept go way back, but useful prototypes remain tantalizingly out of reach. Into the breach steps defense contractor BAE Systems, taking a fresh crack with a High-Powered Microwave (HPM) gun intended to disable small boat engines - if successful, the technology may also target ships, UAVs, and missile payloads. The secret-shrouded weapon sounds similar to Boeing's planned airborne EMP weapon, but lacking the missile delivery systems. BAE seems to be betting big on electromagnetic warfare as a future battlefield tactic, with a manager pitching the sci-fi scene to Aviation Week:
"Unlike lasers, HPM beams don't need a lot of accuracy. With a fan [of HPM energy] you can target 10-30 small boats. If you can knock out 50-75% of the engines in a swarm, you can then concentrate on the remainder with lasers or kinetic [cannons]."
To develop better defenses against such attacks, the contractor received $150,000 from the Air Force to test-fire microwaves at military computers. No word on whether said defenses involve generous use of tin foil.

US government contractor developing 'microwave gun,' Hot Pockets tremble originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 16 Apr 2011 16:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>air forceAirForcearmyBEAElectromagnetic PulseElectromagneticPulseempgunhigh-powered microwaveHigh-poweredMicrowaveHPMmicrowavemicrowavesmilitarymilitary techMilitaryTechnavyoceans elevenOceansElevenray gunRayGunwar techwargadgetWarTechSat, 16 Apr 2011 16:09:00 EST<![CDATA[US Army to deploy Individual Gunshot Detector, essentially a radar for bullets]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/17/us-army-to-deploy-individual-gunshot-detector-essentially-a-rad/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/17/us-army-to-deploy-individual-gunshot-detector-essentially-a-rad/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/17/us-army-to-deploy-individual-gunshot-detector-essentially-a-rad/#comments Latest in our series of "when video games turn real," here's the US Army's newest addition to the wargadget arsenal. The Individual Gunshot Detector, produced by QinetiQ, is an acoustic monitor attuned to tracking down the source of gunshots just by their sound. It has four sensors to pick up the noise of incoming fire, and its analysis of those sound waves produces a readout on a small display that lets the soldier know where the deadly projectiles originated from. The entire system weighs just under two pounds, and while it may not be much help in an actual firefight -- there's no way to distinguish between friendly and hostile fire -- we imagine it'll be a pretty handy tool to have if assaulted by well hidden enemies. 13,000 IGD units are being shipped out to Afghanistan later this month, with a view to deploying 1,500 each month going forward and an ultimate ambition of networking their data so that when one soldier's detector picks up a gunfire source, his nearby colleagues can be informed as well.

Continue reading US Army to deploy Individual Gunshot Detector, essentially a radar for bullets

US Army to deploy Individual Gunshot Detector, essentially a radar for bullets originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 17 Mar 2011 05:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acousticarmyawarenessdetectionequipmentfuturefuturisticgungunsgunshotigdindividual gunshot detectorIndividualGunshotDetectornoiseqinetiqsensorsensorssoldiersoldierssoundsupersonicus armyUsArmywarwargadgetweaponweaponryThu, 17 Mar 2011 05:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple and Android get drafted, soldier-centric Army apps coming soon]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/17/apple-and-android-get-drafted-soldier-centric-army-apps-coming/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/17/apple-and-android-get-drafted-soldier-centric-army-apps-coming/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/17/apple-and-android-get-drafted-soldier-centric-army-apps-coming/#comments If we referred to an Apple or Android army, you might assume we're talking about a legion of brand-loyal fanboys, with which most Engadget commenters are intimately familiar. Defense contractors, however, are trying to turn the US Army into a lethal Apple / Android force with soldier-centric apps. Harris Corp. has a tablet app in the works that allows soldiers to control IP cameras on UAVs for more pertinent intel on the ground while simultaneously sending that information to command centers anywhere in the world. Meanwhile, Intelligent Software Solutions aims to bring mapping mashups to the battlefield (no purpose-built device needed) with an app that combines smartphones' geolocation with historical data to show troops what's been going down in the area -- from IED explosions to insurgent arrests. Best of all, these apps lower training costs since most warriors are already fluent in Android or iOS and the consumer handhelds can be cheaply ruggedized to replace the more robust $10,000 units in the field today. Should protective measures fail, the devices' (relatively) low replacement cost makes them "almost disposable."

Apple and Android get drafted, soldier-centric Army apps coming soon originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 17 Mar 2011 02:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappappleappsarmygoogleharrisharris corporationHarrisCorporationintelligent software solutionsIntelligentSoftwareSolutionsiosipadiphonemilitarysmartphonesoldierssurveillancetacticalUAVus armyUsArmywargadgetThu, 17 Mar 2011 02:34:00 EST<![CDATA[AIRPrint performs ranged fingerprint scanning, won't let the terrorists win]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/18/airprint-performs-ranged-fingerprint-scanning-wont-let-the-ter/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/18/airprint-performs-ranged-fingerprint-scanning-wont-let-the-ter/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/18/airprint-performs-ranged-fingerprint-scanning-wont-let-the-ter/#comments While ears may be the new biometric du jour, Advanced Optical Systems (AOS) is doing its best to keep fingerprints as the preferred method for identifying enemies of the state. The company has built a fingerprint scanner with the ability to accurately read a print up to two meters away, and our military views the system as a means to reduce the risk to soldiers at security checkpoints all over the world. The AIRPrint system is a significant upgrade over previous biometric security systems because it allows a person's identity to be confirmed by military personnel from behind the safety of a blast wall or armored vehicle, which keeps our serviceman out of harm's way. AIRPrint uses a source of polarized light and two 1.3 megapixel cameras (one to receive vertically polarized light and another to receive horizontally polarized light) in order to produce an accurate fingerprint. The prototype is able to scan and verify a print in under five seconds, but the device can presently only process one finger at a time, and that finger must stay a fixed distance from the cameras to get a precise reading. Despite these current limitations, AOS claims that soon the equipment will be capable of reading five prints simultaneously while a person is moving toward or away from the device. The system will be ready for market in the third quarter of this year, which is bad news for terrorists and soccer hooligans, but a windfall for Big Brother.

AIRPrint performs ranged fingerprint scanning, won't let the terrorists win originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 18 Jan 2011 07:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advanced optical systemsAdvancedOpticalSystemsair forceAirForceAIRPrintAOSarmybiometricbiometricsfingerprintfingerprint scannerFingerprintScannermarinesmilitarymilitary techMilitaryTechnavysecuritysurveillanceTue, 18 Jan 2011 07:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Striker integrated display helmet has something to tell you about that old saying 'if looks could kill'...]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/06/striker-integrated-display-helmet-has-something-to-tell-you-abou/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/06/striker-integrated-display-helmet-has-something-to-tell-you-abou/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/06/striker-integrated-display-helmet-has-something-to-tell-you-abou/#comments
We've been told in the past that our mean, hate-filled looks could kill, but we never took that literally. Now, if Britain's BAE Systems has its way, that phrase could seriously have a whole new meaning. The company has developed an RAF helmet that will allow pilots to deploy and steer their weapons by turning their heads. It all sounds incredibly horrifying and futuristic, of course, but the technology which enables the new gadget is pretty intense, as well. The helmet is fitted with an optical head tracker, with targets popping up in the visor, which provides a supposedly highly accurate missile fire with low latency, at any altitude. The system has been extensively tested on the Eurofighter Typhoon, but is modular in styling so that it can be fitted to many systems. There's no word on when this tech will see actual action, but we have our reservations about it, so we hope they take their time.

Striker integrated display helmet has something to tell you about that old saying 'if looks could kill'... originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 06 Jan 2011 07:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aircraftarmyhelmetmilitarypilotsplanesrafRAF TyphoonRafTyphoonstrikertargetstyphoonwarwargadgetweaponweaponryweaponsThu, 06 Jan 2011 07:15:00 EST<![CDATA[DARPA aims to make soldier of tomorrow impervious to sneak attacks with 360 degree vision]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/23/darpa-aims-to-make-soldier-of-tomorrow-impervious-to-sneak-attac/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/23/darpa-aims-to-make-soldier-of-tomorrow-impervious-to-sneak-attac/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/23/darpa-aims-to-make-soldier-of-tomorrow-impervious-to-sneak-attac/#comments

DARPA is currently soliciting proposals for the development of Soldier Centric Imaging via Computational Cameras, also known as SCENICC, for those who prefer brevity. This latest project is a visual enhancement system that seeks to meet all of our armed forces terrorist-hunting and war-waging visual needs. The system, which is purely theoretical at this point, will provide a 360-degree, three-dimensional field of view for soldiers in the field. This optical omniscience is obtained through the use multiple cameras, including images from airborne drones. Soldiers will have real time 10x zoom capabilities and can operate everything via voice commands. As if that weren't enough, SCENICC employs augmented reality to identify and track targets in a way (we presume) not unlike your garden variety T-800. As this bit of kit is years from production, our commandos will have to make do for now with smartphones and wrist displays to keep an eye on enemies of the state.

DARPA aims to make soldier of tomorrow impervious to sneak attacks with 360 degree vision originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 23 Dec 2010 08:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armed forcesArmedForcesarmydarpamilitarymilitary techMilitaryTechopticsSCENICCterminatorwargadgetThu, 23 Dec 2010 08:43:00 EST<![CDATA[US Army testing solar powered tents for troops, gadget addicted campers]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/17/us-army-testing-solar-powered-tents-for-troops-gadget-addicted/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/17/us-army-testing-solar-powered-tents-for-troops-gadget-addicted/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/17/us-army-testing-solar-powered-tents-for-troops-gadget-addicted/#comments While the military is still hashing out plans to outfit soldiers with their own smartphones, gadgets are already a part of daily life of troops in the field. Of course, more technology means more demand for power, and the Army has been evaluating technologies for flexible, lightweight photovoltaic tents and shades. "They are ideal for charging up batteries, making sure your (communications), night vision goggles and computers are powered up. You don't want a generator on top of a mountain, and you don't want to have to bring fuel to a generator or haul batteries," said assistant secretary of the Army Katherine Hammack. Among the various items being tested are the TEMPER Fly, a roughly 16-by-20-foot tent able to generate 800 watts of electricity; QUADrant, a smaller version of the TEMPER Fly that generates roughly 200 watts of power; and Power Shades capable of generating up to 3 kilowatts of exportable electrical power. Sounds like a kick-ass tent for next year's festival season!

US Army testing solar powered tents for troops, gadget addicted campers originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 17 Dec 2010 19:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armyenergygreenphotovoltaicPower ShadesPowerShadesQUADrantsolarsolar powerSolarPowerTEMPER FlyTemperFlyus armyUsArmywargadgetFri, 17 Dec 2010 19:08:00 EST<![CDATA[US Army Connecting Soldiers to Digital Applications program putting smartphones in soldiers' hands this February]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/14/us-army-connecting-soldiers-to-digital-applications-programs-put/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/14/us-army-connecting-soldiers-to-digital-applications-programs-put/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/14/us-army-connecting-soldiers-to-digital-applications-programs-put/#comments
Earlier this year, DARPA put out RFIs with an eye on developing military apps and an app store for iOS and Android, and now the US Army's Connecting Soldiers to Digital Applications (CSDA) program will put handsets, network equipment, and other equipment including tablets, e-readers, and pico projectors into the hands of the First Army Brigade this February. Additionally, the Army plans to start issuing Common Access Card (the ID cards used to log on to DoD computers and networks) readers for the iPhone in January and for Android in April. According to Rickey Smith of the Army Capabilities Integration Center, "We're not wedded to a specific piece of hardware. We are open to using Palm Trios, the Android, iPhone or whatever else is out there." But we must admit -- we are encouraged that this time around you haven't mentioned Celio's REDFLY.

US Army Connecting Soldiers to Digital Applications program putting smartphones in soldiers' hands this February originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 14 Dec 2010 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidapplearmyConnecting Soldiers to Digital ApplicationsConnectingSoldiersToDigitalApplicationsCSDAdefenseiosiphoneus armyUsArmywargadgetTue, 14 Dec 2010 20:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Elbit wins $68 million defense contract to supply OLED-equipped HUDs]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/14/elbit-wins-68-million-defense-contract-to-supply-oled-equipped/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/14/elbit-wins-68-million-defense-contract-to-supply-oled-equipped/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/14/elbit-wins-68-million-defense-contract-to-supply-oled-equipped/#commentsWe still haven't heard about any takers for the company's "hunter-killer' robot, but Elbit Systems has just scored a big contract for some of its other military gear. It's just announced that it's received a five-year $68 million contract from the U.S. Department of Defense, which will see it provide the Army, Navy, Marines Corps and Coast Guard with its AN/AVS-7 heads-up display system components. While complete details are obviously a bit light, the HUDs apparently incorporate an eMagin OLED microdisplay, and are said to "increase situational awareness and safety by allowing pilots to fly 'head out of the cockpit' during day and night operations." Head on past the break for the full press release.

Continue reading Elbit wins $68 million defense contract to supply OLED-equipped HUDs

Elbit wins $68 million defense contract to supply OLED-equipped HUDs originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 14 Oct 2010 00:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ANAVS-7armydefensedefense departmentDefenseDepartmentdepartment of defenseDepartmentOfDefensedodelbitheads-up displayHeads-upDisplayhudoledwargadgetThu, 14 Oct 2010 00:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Universal Display ships eight wrist-worn OLED displays to military, too late to help Noble Team]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/07/universal-display-ships-eight-wrist-worn-oled-displays-to-milita/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/07/universal-display-ships-eight-wrist-worn-oled-displays-to-milita/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/07/universal-display-ships-eight-wrist-worn-oled-displays-to-milita/#comments We had a little fun with Universal Display Corporation's flexible OLED display at CES a few years back, ruggedized and militarized and destined for Army wrists of the future. Little did we know that future would be so close. The company has just confirmed that it has delivered eight of the 4.3-inch, 320 x 240 screens to the US Army for "military evaluation and testing" and, while it doesn't sound like there's a specific purpose in mind at the moment, we're pretty sure they'll come up with something to do with them. We know we sure would.

Update: We got a new picture of the current version above, and a second picture below of it being tortured on the rack.

Continue reading Universal Display ships eight wrist-worn OLED displays to military, too late to help Noble Team

Universal Display ships eight wrist-worn OLED displays to military, too late to help Noble Team originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 07 Oct 2010 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armyflexible oledFlexibleOledmilitaryoleduniversal displayuniversal display corporationUniversalDisplayUniversalDisplayCorporationus armyUsArmywearablewearable computerWearableComputerwrist computerwrist displayWristComputerWristDisplayThu, 07 Oct 2010 20:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Bright delivers hybrid van for U.S. Army testing, won't be hitting a battlefield soon -- or ever]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/06/bright-delivers-hybrid-van-for-u-s-army-testing-wont-be-hitti/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/06/bright-delivers-hybrid-van-for-u-s-army-testing-wont-be-hitti/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/06/bright-delivers-hybrid-van-for-u-s-army-testing-wont-be-hitti/#commentsBright Automotive delivers prototype hybrid for U.S. Army testing, won't be hitting a battlefield soon -- or ever Usually when we cover military gadgets it's things like super-strong robots or skateboard tanks. But, even the U.S. Army needs practical, sensible transportation (apparently), and heaven forbid it buys some standard car from a standard dealership. Instead in this case it went to Bright Automotive, who whipped up a custom version of its Idea plug-in hybrid van, a 10kWh battery pack offering 30 miles of purely electric driving before spinning the internal combustion engine under the hood. On top of that, the Idea can actually act as a generator, exporting 3.3kW of power continuously at either 110 or 220v. What can't it do? Well, look cool on a battlefield for one, or intimidate our enemies, for another -- nothing a roof-mounted ball turret and a coat of olive drab can't solve.

Continue reading Bright delivers hybrid van for U.S. Army testing, won't be hitting a battlefield soon -- or ever

Bright delivers hybrid van for U.S. Army testing, won't be hitting a battlefield soon -- or ever originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 06 Oct 2010 10:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armycargo vanCargoVanhybridmilitaryplug-in hybridPlug-inHybridu.s. armyU.s.Armyus armyUsArmyvanWed, 06 Oct 2010 10:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Visualized: GE's exoskeleton from a heavy metal past-future]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/13/visualized-ges-exoskeleton-from-a-heavy-metal-past-future/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/13/visualized-ges-exoskeleton-from-a-heavy-metal-past-future/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/13/visualized-ges-exoskeleton-from-a-heavy-metal-past-future/#comments
Sure, plastic is light, durable, and easy to mold, but there's something so raw and medieval about a metal exoskeleton -- built long before anyone could call it steampunk -- that it makes us want to strap on our hard hat, hop in the Engadg-O-Matic Time Machine, and travel back to a bulkier past where we could give this big guy a painful hug. Check the source link for all sorts of adorable / frightening prototype illustrations of General Electric's army-commissioned "Hardiman force amplifying exoskeleton" from 1967, and feel free to drift off to happier times in the process. Just come back at some point, cool?

Visualized: GE's exoskeleton from a heavy metal past-future originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 13 Sep 2010 08:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armyexoskeletongegeneral electricGeneralElectricretrosteampunkvisualizedMon, 13 Sep 2010 08:19:00 EST<![CDATA[U of M laser mimics helicopter heat signatures to thwart missiles]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/06/u-of-m-lasers-mimic-helicopter-heat-signatures-thwart-missiles/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/06/u-of-m-lasers-mimic-helicopter-heat-signatures-thwart-missiles/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/06/u-of-m-lasers-mimic-helicopter-heat-signatures-thwart-missiles/#comments
Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a new laser-based countermeasure for aircraft, and unlike others we've seen (and we've seen a few) this technology aims to "blind" missiles rather than knock 'em out of the sky. The system uses a mid-infrared supercontinuum laser to mimic the heat signature of a helicopter, and it has no moving parts -- making it rugged enough to last a long time on rotor-based aircraft. The school has even spun off a company, Omni Sciences, to develop the thing, and has received some $1 million in grants from the Army and DARPA to build a second-generation prototype. Of course, questions remain: is it really a wargadget if you can't blow something up with it? And even if it is, where's the fun in that?

U of M laser mimics helicopter heat signatures to thwart missiles originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 06 Sep 2010 20:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armycountermeasuresdarpadefenseheat seekingHeatSeekinghelicopterlaserlaser-based countermeasuresLaser-basedCountermeasuresmissileOmni SciencesOmniSciencesuniversity of michiganUniversityOfMichiganwargadgetMon, 06 Sep 2010 20:08:00 EST