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[Navy plans ship-based LTE for close-quarters communication]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/24/navy-plans-ship-based-lte-for-close-quarters-communication/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/24/navy-plans-ship-based-lte-for-close-quarters-communication/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/24/navy-plans-ship-based-lte-for-close-quarters-communication/#comments

Navy plans ship-based LTE

Bandwidth is a precious commodity on military vessels. Ships in the US Navy fleet are generating more data, but the pipe it's getting pumped through isn't getting any larger. What's more, with limited connectivity options on the table, the sea-faring military wing is missing out on all the smartphone and app store fun. Rather than turn green with envy, or turning their dress whites is for camouflage cargo pants, the Navy is beefing up its mobile tech arsenal, beginning with the U.S.S. Kearsarge, U.S.S. San Antonio and U.S.S. Whidbey Island. The ships will serve as test beds for a nautical LTE system, with a range of about 25 miles. The 4G network will serve as a localized platform for wirelessly feeding data to sailors, as well as a way for the enlisted to connect to the outside world. On the backend, the Marines are working on a new satellite broadband service that should be able to provide ships with 300 megabits of shared bandwidth. Satellite internet and off-grid LTE might induce yawns in some, but they're certainly a major part of modernizing our fighting forces. For more info, check out the source link.

Navy plans ship-based LTE for close-quarters communication originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 24 May 2012 01:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4gltemarinesmilitarymobilepostcrossnavysatellitesatellite internetSatelliteInternetus navyUsNavywargadgetThu, 24 May 2012 01:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Army spy blimp to launch within weeks: 300 feet long, $500 million, 'multi-intelligent']]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/23/northrop-grumman-army-spy-blimp/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/23/northrop-grumman-army-spy-blimp/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/23/northrop-grumman-army-spy-blimp/#comments Image

It can't go faster than 34MPH and it's already a year late for its planned deployment in Afghanistan, but Northrop Grumman's Long Endurance Multi-Intelligence Vehicle (LEMV) is now set for its maiden flight. The test run is scheduled for sometime between June 6th and 10th over Lakehurst, New Jersey, whose residents ought to be forewarned that it is not a solar eclipse or a Death Star, but simply a helium-filled pilotless reconnaissance and communications airship that happens to be the size of a football field. After floating around for a while, the giant dirigible is expected to journey south to Florida, where it'll be fitted to a custom-built gondola that will carry the bulk of its equipment, and by which time her enemies hopefully won't have come into possession of an air force.

Army spy blimp to launch within weeks: 300 feet long, $500 million, 'multi-intelligent' originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 23 May 2012 08:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>afghanistanairshipballoonbigblimpdirigiblegiantheliumhugelakehurstLEMVLong Endurance Multi-Intelligence VehicleLongEnduranceMulti-intelligenceVehiclemilitarynew jerseyNewJerseyNorthrop GrummanNorthropGrummanreconnaissancespyus armyUS Army Research LaboratoryUsArmyUsArmyResearchLaboratorywargadgetWed, 23 May 2012 08:04:00 EST<![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[Navy looks into UV cloak for stealth aircraft]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/10/navy-uv-cloak-for-stealth-aircraft/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/10/navy-uv-cloak-for-stealth-aircraft/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/10/navy-uv-cloak-for-stealth-aircraft/#comments Navy looks into UV cloak for stealth aircraft

The Navy's invested good money in the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, which obscures radar waves and redirects engine heat to evade recognition by infrared sensors. But that stealth flier is still vulnerable to another type of detection: UV sensors. The Pentagon recently began soliciting proposals to develop a device that cloaks aircraft from ultra-violet detection systems. The hope is that such a technology could shield aircraft from missile seekers that scan the sky for telltale "UV silhouettes." According to the call for research, the solution could involve a device that disperses a cloud of quantum dots or other materials to veil jet fighters in a shapeless mass of UV shadow. Given that this is a rather daunting task, it's not surprising that the development timeframe and projected cost are still up in the air.

Navy looks into UV cloak for stealth aircraft originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 10 May 2012 07:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aircraftF-35JointStrikeFighterjetjet fighterJetFighterjetsjoint strike fighterJoint Strike Fighter programJointStrikeFighterJointStrikeFighterProgrammilitarymilitary researchmilitary techmilitary technologiesmilitary technologyMilitaryResearchMilitaryTechMilitaryTechnologiesMilitaryTechnologynavynavy researchNavyResearchpentagonresearchus militaryus navyUsMilitaryUsNavyuvUV cloakuv raysUvCloakUvRayswar gadgetWarGadgetThu, 10 May 2012 07:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Military deploys VR NeuroTracker game to train special ops forces (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/09/military-deploys-vr-neurotracker-game-to-train-special-ops/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/09/military-deploys-vr-neurotracker-game-to-train-special-ops/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/09/military-deploys-vr-neurotracker-game-to-train-special-ops/#comments Military deploys VR NeuroTracker game to train special ops forces

We've seen virtual reality used to simulate the experience of being in space, to train engineers and even to help patients regain mobility, so it's no surprise that the military is recognizing VR's potential, too. The US Special Operations Command recently announced that it will employ NeuroTracker -- a system currently used to train athletes in the NFL and NHL -- to assess and improve commandos' response times and perceptive capabilities.

The VR setup tasks commandos with following the movements of four different balls projected on a 3D screen, the catch being that four "decoy" objects are also bouncing around. NeuroTracker assesses how well an individual can keep track of the designated targets, and also helps determine how he or she would be able to predict trajectories in the field. Once a user has completed the first game, several variations come into play, including a version that speeds up the balls' movements and one that pits two players against each other. CogniSens, the company behind NeuroTracker, says the game develops perceptive abilities just like a workout develops muscles; there's even a high-intensity gameplay option that combines the mental challenge with physical conditioning exercises.

Continue reading Military deploys VR NeuroTracker game to train special ops forces (video)

Military deploys VR NeuroTracker game to train special ops forces (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 09 May 2012 05:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>brainbrain gamesBrainGamesCogniSensgamesmilitaryneuroscienceNeuroTrackerSpecial operationsspecial opsSpecialOperationsSpecialOpsvideovirtual realityvirtual reality gamesVirtualRealityVirtualRealityGamesvrWed, 09 May 2012 05:42:00 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[RunCore's Mini DOM packs single-chip, SATA-based SSD into tiny places]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/02/runcore-mini-dom-single-chip-sata-ssd/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/02/runcore-mini-dom-single-chip-sata-ssd/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/02/runcore-mini-dom-single-chip-sata-ssd/#comments Image

Fitting a truly quick solid-state drive into a small space isn't easy, and for that reason RunCore's new Mini DOM (Disk On Module) stands out from the crowd. It's billed as the first single-chip SSD to use a SATA interface (SATA II, to be exact), giving it that much more bandwidth than the pokey IDE and PATA DOMs of old while remaining under half the size of a regular mSATA drive. RunCore's own tests show it hitting about 113MB/s sequential reads and 47MB/s writes. Neither figure will knock the socks off even a mainstream budget SSD like Intel's SSD 330, but they're more than brisk enough for embedded gear. The drives can survive brutal conditions, too: an Industrial Grade trim level can survive temperatures as chilly as -40F and as scorching as 185F. So, the next time you pry open some military equipment and see one of these sitting inside, in three different formats and capacities from 8GB to 64GB, you'll know exactly what you're looking at.

Continue reading RunCore's Mini DOM packs single-chip, SATA-based SSD into tiny places

RunCore's Mini DOM packs single-chip, SATA-based SSD into tiny places originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 02 May 2012 14:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>domembeddedflashflash driveFlashDriveindustrialmilitarymini domMiniDomruncoresatasata IISataIisolid state drivesolid-state driveSolid-stateDriveSolidStateDrivessdWed, 02 May 2012 14:47:00 EST<![CDATA[DARPA realizes it needs contact lenses, opts for those nice AR tinted ones (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/13/darpa-innovega-ioptik-augmented-reality-contact-lenses/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/13/darpa-innovega-ioptik-augmented-reality-contact-lenses/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/13/darpa-innovega-ioptik-augmented-reality-contact-lenses/#commentsDARPA realizes it needs contact lenses, opts for those nice AR tinted ones (video)DARPA saw the battlefield potential in AR glasses ages ago, when even Sergey Brin was happy to wear regular Ray-Bans. It's now stepped up its investment, giving more cash to one of its research contractors -- a company called Innovega -- to produce prototype contact lenses that could make military wearable HUDs smaller and less conspicuous. Innovega's iOptik lenses don't actually include a display, but rather allow the human eye to focus on an image from a separate accessory that sits right up close to the eyeball. The lenses have different zones that give the wearer multiple areas of focus, so they can see the overlaid augmented reality HUD -- such as a feed from an overhead drone -- but also warlike events going on in the immediate environment. Judging from the video after the break, however, calling them plain 'bifocals' might be taboo.

Continue reading DARPA realizes it needs contact lenses, opts for those nice AR tinted ones (video)

DARPA realizes it needs contact lenses, opts for those nice AR tinted ones (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 13 Apr 2012 05:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ARaugmented realityAugmentedRealitybifocalcombatcontact lenscontact lensesContactLensContactLensesdarpafocusglassesgogglesheads up displayHeadsUpDisplayHUDinnovegaioptiklensmilitarymulti-focusvideowarFri, 13 Apr 2012 05:31:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T purportedly unlocks in-contract iPhones for deployed military personnel]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/10/att-purportedly-unlocks-iphones-for-deployed-military-personnel/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/10/att-purportedly-unlocks-iphones-for-deployed-military-personnel/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/10/att-purportedly-unlocks-iphones-for-deployed-military-personnel/#comments AT&T purportedly unlocks in-contract iPhones for deployed military personnelAT&T has gotten a good amount of attention lately for unlocking off-contract iPhone handsets, but a recent report from MacRumors suggests that the carrier is extending the same privilege to members of the US military currently serving overseas. While we haven't been able to verify the report, we'd like to believe that news of AT&T's goodwill gesture is indeed genuine. Naturally, we're rather curious to know whether this policy extends to AT&T's entire range of handsets. So, if you or a loved one is on active deployment, be sure to give this a try and let us know your experience in the comments below.

[Military photo via Shutterstock]

AT&T purportedly unlocks in-contract iPhones for deployed military personnel originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 10 Apr 2012 03:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleattcarriercarrier unlockCarrierUnlockcontractiphonemilitarymobilepostcrosssimsim unlockSimUnlockunlockunlockingus militaryUsMilitaryTue, 10 Apr 2012 03:02:00 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[Conductive fabrics may power future infantry gear, uniforms set to enter field trials]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/03/conductive-fabrics-may-power-future-infantry-gear/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/03/conductive-fabrics-may-power-future-infantry-gear/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/03/conductive-fabrics-may-power-future-infantry-gear/#comments Conductive uniforms may power future infantry gear, set to begin field trials next monthIf you thought your Sunbeam electric blanket or those Hello Kitty foot warmers were advanced pieces of kit, then you'd best divert your eyes from this story out of the UK. In an effort to eliminate the mess of power cables and extraneous batteries from a soldier's tech gear, one British company is currently experimenting with conductive fabrics as the basis for future military uniforms. The material is able to deliver power to any number of devices -- all from a single battery -- and also features a redundancy aspect, with the ability to reroute power should the fabric become torn or damaged. The company, known as Intelligent Textiles, recently received a £234,000 grant from the Ministry of Defense and hopes to begin field trials of its equipment next month. While these high tech uniforms may see a limited military issue by year's end, it's thought unlikely that the gear will become widespread until 2014 or beyond.

Conductive fabrics may power future infantry gear, uniforms set to enter field trials originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 03 Apr 2012 08:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>conductivefabricintelligent textilesIntelligentTextilesmilitaryMinistry of DefenseMinistryOfDefenseukuniformwarwargadgetTue, 03 Apr 2012 08:23:00 EST<![CDATA[DARPA envisions disposable SeeMe satellites for on-demand reconnaissance]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/15/darpa-envisions-disposable-seeme-satellites/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/15/darpa-envisions-disposable-seeme-satellites/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/15/darpa-envisions-disposable-seeme-satellites/#comments DARPA envisions disposable SeeMe satellites for on-demand reconnaissanceA new project from DARPA could successfully bring satellites to the same throwaway status as paper cups and Charlie Sheen's income (#winning). At $500,000 a pop, the orbitals would hardly be chump change, but the Pentagon insists these airborne systems could provide reconnaissance within 90 minutes of deployment and would deliver valuable tactical information to areas not covered by current satellites. Known as SeeMe, the systems would be launched in groups of 24 -- which equates to a $12 million cluster -- and would remain in orbit for 60 to 90 days, at which point they'd burn up upon atmospheric re-entry. Currently, DARPA is seeking contractors that can manufacture the systems rapidly at low costs, which can also "develop advanced technologies for optics, power, propulsion and communications to keep size and weight down." It's said to further discuss the project at a March 27th event known as Proposers' Day. In the meantime, we're going to hit the junkyard and see what we can cobble together.

DARPA envisions disposable SeeMe satellites for on-demand reconnaissance originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 15 Mar 2012 12:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>darpamilitarypentagonreconnaissanceresearchsatelliteseemewarwargadgetThu, 15 Mar 2012 12:33:00 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[MIT software optimizes paths for automated undersea vehicles (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/12/mit-software-optimizes-paths-for-automated-undersea-vehicles/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/12/mit-software-optimizes-paths-for-automated-undersea-vehicles/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/12/mit-software-optimizes-paths-for-automated-undersea-vehicles/#commentsSo, there's good news and bad news. The former is that MIT researchers have developed new software and methods that can predict optimal paths for automated underwater vehicles. The latter is that it's meant to be used for "swarms" of them, "moving all at once toward separate destinations." We hate to be the folks that keep harping on the inevitable, but teaching "swarms" of undersea robots how to effectively draw paths to the very creators that made them makes us... well, less that cozy. Paranoia aside, the Pierre Lermusiaux-led team has concocted a system that can provide paths optimized either for the shortest travel time or for the minimum use of energy, or to maximize the collection of data that is considered most important. The goal? To make the lives of gliders more efficient when engaged in "mapping and oceanographic research, military reconnaissance and harbor protection, or for deep-sea oil-well maintenance and emergency response." Oh, and did we mention that it can incorporate obstacle-avoidance functions for the sake of protection. Yeah. Death from above below.

Continue reading MIT software optimizes paths for automated undersea vehicles (video)

MIT software optimizes paths for automated undersea vehicles (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 12 Mar 2012 04:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AUVglidermilitarymitMSEASoceanPierre LermusiauxPierreLermusiauxresearchscienceuavunderwater vehicleUnderwaterVehicleuniversityvideowargadgetMon, 12 Mar 2012 04:39:00 EST<![CDATA[SAFFiR: the autonomous, firefighting humanoid robot]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/11/saffir-autonomous-firefighting-humanoid-robot/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/11/saffir-autonomous-firefighting-humanoid-robot/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/11/saffir-autonomous-firefighting-humanoid-robot/#comments It took six years, but at long last, Anna Konda has a formidable firefighting partner. SAFFiR, also known as the Shipboard Autonomous Firefighting Robot, is being shaped by scientists at the Naval Research Laboratory. As the story goes, it's a humanoid robot that's being engineered to "move autonomously throughout the ship, interact with people, and fight fires, handling many of the dangerous firefighting tasks that are normally performed by humans." Outside of being stoic (and brawny) from tip to tip, it's also outfitted with multi-modal sensor technology for advanced navigation and a sensor suite that includes a camera, gas sensor, and stereo IR camera to enable it to see through smoke. We're told that its internal batteries can keep it cranking for a solid half-hour, while being capable of manipulating fire suppressors and throwing propelled extinguishing agent technology (PEAT) grenades. Wilder still, it'll be able to balance in "sea conditions," making it perfect for killing flames while onboard a ship. Of course, it's also being tweaked to work with a robotic team, giving it undercover powers to eventually turn the flames on the folks that created it. Paranoid? Maybe. But who are we to be too careful?

Update: Turns out, the same Dr. Hong that we had on The Engadget Show is responsible for this guy as well. It's the next step in evolution of the CHARLI humanoid, and the two photos seen after the break are credited to RoMeLa: Robotics & Mechanisms Laboratory, Virginia Tech.

Continue reading SAFFiR: the autonomous, firefighting humanoid robot

SAFFiR: the autonomous, firefighting humanoid robot originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 11 Mar 2012 19:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fireFirefightinggrenadehumanoidmilitarynavalNaval Research LaboratoryNavalResearchLaboratorynavyNRLPEATresearchrobotsafetySAFFiRscientistscientistsShadwellshipboardUniversity of PennsylvaniaUniversityOfPennsylvaniaususaVirginia TechVirginiaTechwarwargadgetSun, 11 Mar 2012 19:22:00 EST<![CDATA[iRobot 110 FirstLook hands-on (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/09/irobot-110-firstlook-hands-on-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/09/irobot-110-firstlook-hands-on-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/09/irobot-110-firstlook-hands-on-video/#comments
iRobot's Bedford, Massachusetts headquarters is literally crawling (well, rolling) with robots of all shapes and sizes, from friendlier household fare like Scoobas and Roombas, to the 450-pound Warrior battlefield 'bot, which patrols the perimeter, looking for mock IEDs. The highlight of our trip this week, however, had to be the time we spent with 110 FirstLook. Sure, durability is job number one, when you're building products for the military, but the plucky little robot takes things to a whole new level.

At five pounds, you can pick the thing up and toss it -- in fact, the company encourages such action. The FirstLook was built to be thrown into dangerous areas, and it's rugged enough to smash through plate glass windows to get there. The 'bot has a patch of skateboard-like grip tape on its top, opposite the bendable antenna, so you can easily grab it with a single hand. You toss the FirstLook side arm, like a frisbee, and no matter what side it lands on, the rubber treads will cushion the blow a bit. If it happens to hit the ground upside down (with the antenna on the bottom), the triangle wings on either side can be slowly extended in either direction to right the robot. Same goes for when it bounces down a flight of stairs, unharmed.

Gallery: iRobot 110 FirstLook hands-on

iRobot 110 FirstLook hands-on

Continue reading iRobot 110 FirstLook hands-on (video)

iRobot 110 FirstLook hands-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 09 Mar 2012 12:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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There's something pretty damn appealing about a controllable robot that can be hurled through a window and live to tell the tale. It looks like the military brass agree; The Joint Improvised Explosive Device Defeat Organization (JIEDDO) has ordered over 100 of iRobot's 110 FirstLook scouting units. Unsurprisingly, these robots are tougher than your garden variety RC vehicle. Aside from managing our desperate throws, these can survive 15-foot drops, self-right, relay radio communication over a digital mesh network and feed back video from its four built-in cameras. After a year of internal testing, the bots will get their first on-the-job trial in an "operational assessment" later this spring. Check out the (military) man-toy in action right after the break.

Continue reading iRobot's 'throwable' 110 FirstLook bot gets drafted into the military (video)

iRobot's 'throwable' 110 FirstLook bot gets drafted into the military (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>110 first look110FirstLookbotfirstlookirobotirobot 110irobot 110 firstlookIrobot110Irobot110FirstlookJIEDDOJoint Improvised Explosive Device Defeat OranizationJointImprovisedExplosiveDeviceDefeatOranizationmilitarymilitary orderMilitaryOrderrobotvideowargadgetTue, 06 Mar 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Navy test-fires weaponized railgun with explosive results (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/29/railgun-test-fire-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/29/railgun-test-fire-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/29/railgun-test-fire-video/#comments
You're about to watch a test firing of BAE's experimental railgun demonstrating why the technology isn't science fiction anymore. Load an aluminum projectile into the 12-meter barrel and one million amps will hypersonically propel it toward the target. The conflagration you'll witness is due to the metal slug burning off in the charged air. In April, General Atomics will supply its own prototype so the military can identify which one is closer to making its way aboard the battleships of the 2020's. Anyway, now you can go watch the video fully aware of what's going on, try not to sit there with your mouth open.

Continue reading Navy test-fires weaponized railgun with explosive results (video)

Navy test-fires weaponized railgun with explosive results (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Feb 2012 12:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BAE SystemsBaeSystemsElectromagnetic Rail GunElectromagneticRailGunGauss CannonGaussCannonGeneral AtomicsGeneralAtomicsMilitaryNavalNavyRail GunRailgunUS NavyUsNavyVelocitas EradicoVelocitasEradicovideoWargadgetWeaponWeapon SystemWeaponSystemWed, 29 Feb 2012 12:46:00 EST<![CDATA[RB3D develops Hercule robotic exoskeleton, boosts strength without P90X]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/21/rb3d-develops-hercule-robotic-exoskeleton-boosts-strength-witho/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/21/rb3d-develops-hercule-robotic-exoskeleton-boosts-strength-witho/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/21/rb3d-develops-hercule-robotic-exoskeleton-boosts-strength-witho/#comments
Sure, some folks could use a little extra help maneuvering in order to complete daily chores. But what about help with all of that heavy lifting? The folks at RB3D in France have been working with the French Directorate General of Armaments (DGA), ESME Sudria and CES LIST to develop a robotic exoskeleton that will aid in doing just that. Hercule, the aforementioned cobot-esque (collaborative robot) prototype, doesn't require any special training or skills to use. A person needing extra strength to carry that crate of supplies just wears the device and goes about his or her business with the added support of the exosuit. This particular model is powered electrically and will last about 20km (about 12.5 miles) if movement is kept at a regular walking pace. Weight limits, you ask? The Hercule boasts a carrying capacity of 100kg (220lbs) -- more than HAL tech we've seen in aiding travelers in the past. Military and civil customers could get their hands on these as early as 2014, but for now, jump past the break for a look at one in action.

Continue reading RB3D develops Hercule robotic exoskeleton, boosts strength without P90X

RB3D develops Hercule robotic exoskeleton, boosts strength without P90X originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 21 Feb 2012 19:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>exoskeletonexosuitFrancemilitaryRB3Drobotrobotic exoskeletonRoboticExoskeletonroboticssciencetransportationvideoTue, 21 Feb 2012 19:14:00 EST<![CDATA[DARPA's 'Avatar project' aims to give soldiers surrogate robots, make James Cameron proud]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/19/darpas-avatar-project-aims-to-give-soldiers-surrogate-robots/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/19/darpas-avatar-project-aims-to-give-soldiers-surrogate-robots/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/19/darpas-avatar-project-aims-to-give-soldiers-surrogate-robots/#comments In a fevered mash up of blockbuster films directed by James Cameron, DARPA is looking to put soldier controlled bi-pedal robots on the battlefield. Think Terminator meets Avatar. The agency has set aside $7 million of it's $2.8 billion 2012 budget to develop an "Avatar program" that will "develop interfaces and algorithms to enable a soldier to effectively partner with a semi-autonomous bi-pedal machine and allow it to act as the soldier's surrogate." DARPA isn't talking about simple remote control rigs, either -- these 'bots are being designed to clear rooms, and facilitate sentry control and combat casualty recovery. The new budget also sets aside $4.1 million to design laser countermeasures to protect military weapons, well, lasers -- ensuring that the future's robot soldiers will be nigh indestructible when they rebel against their human hosts.

DARPA's 'Avatar project' aims to give soldiers surrogate robots, make James Cameron proud originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 19 Feb 2012 07:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armautonomousavatardarpahandhandsmachinesmilitaryrobotrobot apocalypserobot avatarRobotApocalypseRobotAvatarrobotssurrogatesurrogate soldiersSurrogateSoldiersterminatorwargadgetSun, 19 Feb 2012 07:03:00 EST<![CDATA[DARPA planning high-speed wireless for soldiers in the field]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/16/darpa-planning-high-speed-wireless-for-soldiers-in-the-field/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/16/darpa-planning-high-speed-wireless-for-soldiers-in-the-field/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/16/darpa-planning-high-speed-wireless-for-soldiers-in-the-field/#comments UAVDARPA has its hands and, more importantly, its money in just about everything. Weapons, robots, thermal sensors -- it's a staple of the scientific community. But, it's also a military agency with basic needs, like internet access. The research group's newest project doesn't carry heavy loads (unless you're weighing your cargo in kilobytes) and can't break the sound barrier, but it should be able to deliver 4G speeds to even the most remote of battlefields. DARPA has $11.8 million set aside for its Mobile Hotspots program which will use millimeter-wave signals to deliver high-speed data connections to dismounted soldiers, forward-operating bases and tactical centers. Most importantly, each node in the network extends its range building out a mesh that isn't reliant on existing infrastructure. For more details hit up the PR after the break.

Continue reading DARPA planning high-speed wireless for soldiers in the field

DARPA planning high-speed wireless for soldiers in the field originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 16 Feb 2012 04:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4gDARPADefense Advanced Research Projects AgencyDefenseAdvancedResearchProjectsAgencymilitaryMillimeter WaveMillimeterWavemobile hotspotsMobileHotspotswargadgetwirelesswireless networkingWirelessNetworkingThu, 16 Feb 2012 04:04:00 EST<![CDATA[AlphaDog robo pack-mule begins outdoor trials, noisily hikes into your nightmares]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/08/alphadog-robo-pack-mule-begins-outdoor-trials/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/08/alphadog-robo-pack-mule-begins-outdoor-trials/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/08/alphadog-robo-pack-mule-begins-outdoor-trials/#commentsBoston Dynamics LS3 AlphaDogBoston Dynamics' LS3, better known 'round these parts as AlphaDog, has already wowed us with a display of its stability, power and mobility. Thing is, that little clip we caught back in October took place entirely within the safe and purposefully laid out confines of a laboratory. So, the question is, what happens when you take the rather noisy quadruped outside and strap a bunch of weight to it? Well, pretty much the same thing that happened while it was nice and cozy inside -- the beast powered through the reasonably rugged terrain with nary a hitch. By the end of the tests DARPA hopes to have a mighty robotic porter capable of carrying 400 pounds of gear up to 20 miles without refueling. Though, the trek is expected to be slow and arduous as a full 24 hours is target time frame for such a journey. For full PR and to see the bot in action head on after the break.

Continue reading AlphaDog robo pack-mule begins outdoor trials, noisily hikes into your nightmares

AlphaDog robo pack-mule begins outdoor trials, noisily hikes into your nightmares originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 08 Feb 2012 17:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alphadogboston dynamicsboston dynamics alphadogboston dynamics bigdogBoston Dynamics LS3BostonDynamicsBostonDynamicsAlphadogBostonDynamicsBigdogBostonDynamicsLs3darpaLS3militaryRobopocalypseRobotApocalypsevideoWed, 08 Feb 2012 17:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Visualized: futuristic AMELIA aircraft (theoretically) soars through NASA wind tunnel]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/30/amelia-airplane-nasa-test-future-flight/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/30/amelia-airplane-nasa-test-future-flight/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/30/amelia-airplane-nasa-test-future-flight/#comments It's the Advanced Model for Extreme Lift and Improved Aeroacoustics, and it's the brainchild of many, many intelligent beings planted at California Polytechnic State University. The aircraft has been in design courtesy of a grant from NASA, touting engines above the wings and the ability to achieve shockingly short takeoffs and landings. And did we mention it looks sexier than a freshly-washed 787? Yeah.

Continue reading Visualized: futuristic AMELIA aircraft (theoretically) soars through NASA wind tunnel

Visualized: futuristic AMELIA aircraft (theoretically) soars through NASA wind tunnel originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 30 Jan 2012 11:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Advanced Model for Extreme Lift and Improved AeroacousticsAdvancedModelForExtremeLiftAndImprovedAeroacousticsair forceAirForceairplaneameliafuturemilitarytesttestingtransportationtunnelususaVisualizedwargadgetwind tunnelWindTunnelMon, 30 Jan 2012 11:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Camera-less iPhone 4S now available in Singapore, military approves]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/20/camera-less-iphone-4s-now-available-in-singapore-military-appro/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/20/camera-less-iphone-4s-now-available-in-singapore-military-appro/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/20/camera-less-iphone-4s-now-available-in-singapore-military-appro/#comments
Rhyming schemes aside, it's hard to imagine why anyone would want a camera-less iPhone 4S. But that's exactly what Singaporean operator M1 is offering today, with the launch of a new line of "non-camera" iPhones. As it turns out, Singapore's military prohibits its soldiers from owning camera-equipped cellphones, which presents problems for the many men who have to serve a mandatory two-year term. With M1's new modified iPhone 4 and 4S, though, they'll be in the clear, since both devices have been approved by no less an authority than Singapore's Ministry of Defense, or MINDEF. According to the provider, both front- and rear-facing cameras have been completely removed from the devices, and "may not be reinstalled." They're all available now on a two-year plan, for about $38 more than their fully-outfitted counterparts. Singapore's two other operators, SingTel and StarHub, tell CNET that they're also looking to roll out a line of MINDEF-approved iPhones, though neither could offer a timeline for their release.

Camera-less iPhone 4S now available in Singapore, military approves originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 20 Jan 2012 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleasiacameracamera phoneCameraPhonecarriercellphonehandsetiosiphoneiphone 4iphone 4sIphone4Iphone4sM1militarymobilepostcrossoperatorsingaporesmartphoneFri, 20 Jan 2012 10:02:00 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[It's not a flying fish, it's a submarine-launched UAV]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/28/its-not-a-flying-fish-its-a-submarine-launched-uav/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/28/its-not-a-flying-fish-its-a-submarine-launched-uav/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/28/its-not-a-flying-fish-its-a-submarine-launched-uav/#comments VTOL may be old news already, but here's another great USP for any UAV: the ability to launch from a submerged submarine. The technology is still in development, but the Navy wants to try it from periscope depth during exercises in the Pacific Ocean next year. If all goes to plan, a Switchblade folding-wing drone will be ejected from the submarine's trash disposal unit and then carried to the surface by an SLV ('submerged launch vehicle'), which will keep it dry, point it into the wind and then hurl it heavenwards so it can go a-snooping. Whether the experiment succeeds or fails, we've glimpsed a worrying possibility: submarines are capable of dumping their trash right into the ocean. Until now, we sort of assumed they took it home with them.

It's not a flying fish, it's a submarine-launched UAV originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 28 Dec 2011 09:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AeroVironmentAeroVironment SwitchbladeAerovironmentSwitchbladedronemilitarymilitary exerciseMilitaryExerciseNavyRaytheonrimpacRIMPAC 2012Rimpac2012SLVspy planeSpyPlanesubmarinesubmerged launch vehicleSubmergedLaunchVehicleSwitchbladeUAVunderwaterunmanned aerial vehicleUnmannedAerialVehiclewargadgetWed, 28 Dec 2011 09:25:00 EST<![CDATA[US Cyber Command completes major cyber attack simulation, seems pleased with the results]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/02/us-cyber-command-completes-major-cyber-attack-simulation-seems/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/02/us-cyber-command-completes-major-cyber-attack-simulation-seems/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/02/us-cyber-command-completes-major-cyber-attack-simulation-seems/#comments
The US Cyber Command is barely out of its infancy, but it's already crossed one milestone off its to-do list, with the successful completion of its first major test run. The exercise, known as Cyber Flag, was carried out over the course of a single week at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada, where some 300 experts put their defense skills to the test. According to Col. Rivers J. Johnson, the participants were divided into two teams: "good guys," and "bad guys." The latter were delegated with the task of infiltrating the Cyber Command's networks, while the former were charged with defending the mock cyberattack and keeping the government's VPN free of malware. The idea, according to the agency, was to simulate a real-world attack on the Department of Defense, in order to better evaluate the Command's acumen. "There were a variety of scenarios based on what we think an adversary would do in real world events and real world time," Johnson explained. "It was a great exercise." The Colonel acknowledged that the good guys weren't able to defend against all of the attacks, but pointed out that the vast majority were recognized and mitigated "in a timely manner." All told, Cyber Flag was deemed a success, with NSA Director and Cyber Command chief Gen. Keith Alexander adding that it "exceeded" his own expectations.

US Cyber Command completes major cyber attack simulation, seems pleased with the results originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 02 Dec 2011 17:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cyber attackCyber Flagcyber securitycyberattackCyberFlagCyberSecuritydefensedepartment of defenseDepartmentOfDefenseDODgovernmentmalwaremilitarymocknational securitynational security agencyNationalSecurityNationalSecurityAgencyNellis Air Force BaseNellisAirForceBaseNSAsecuritytestUS Cyber CommandUS governmentUsCyberCommandUsGovernmentVPNFri, 02 Dec 2011 17:34:00 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[The Air Force will give you $150,000 to blast its weeds with a laser]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/11/the-air-force-will-give-you-150-000-to-blast-its-weeds-with-a-l/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/11/the-air-force-will-give-you-150-000-to-blast-its-weeds-with-a-l/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/11/the-air-force-will-give-you-150-000-to-blast-its-weeds-with-a-l/#comments
With the holiday season just around the corner, the Air Force has been busy compiling its yuletide wish list, and it's got some pretty strange requests. Included on its latest call for small business innovations is a curious proposal for a project called "Floral Disruptor - Directed Energy Weed Abatement and Prevention Tool." According to Air Force documents, this project calls for "a device that uses directed energy technology to prevent and abate unwanted plants (weeds) in areas that require control or defoliation." Translation: a ray gun to blast weeds. Turns out, the Air Force spends a handsome chunk of cash each year on weed control -- so much so, in fact, that it's willing to pay $150,000 in grant money to anyone whose device can "deter, disrupt, deny, or degrade the desired objective." Private companies have already begun testing devices that annihilate weeds with lasers, microwave radiation and even sound, which is why the Air Force feels confident that the approach can bear fruit. But before you start entertaining fantasies of mass botanical killings, keep in mind that the government will only accept solutions that don't "target personnel or wildlife." As a Force rep explained to Wired, the idea is to develop an eagle-eyed contraption that lessens its dependence upon costly chemicals and pesticides. Besides, have you seen the Army's front lawn? It's immaculate.

The Air Force will give you $150,000 to blast its weeds with a laser originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 11 Nov 2011 16:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>air forceAirForcechemicaldevelopmentFloral DisruptorFloralDisruptorgardeninglasermicrowavemicrowave radiationMicrowaveRadiationmilitarymilitary techMilitaryTechmoneypesticideproposalray gunRayGunresearchsoundweedingweedsFri, 11 Nov 2011 16:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Researchers use inkjet acumen to create wireless explosive sensor from paper]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/31/researchers-use-inkjet-acumen-to-create-wireless-explosive-senso/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/31/researchers-use-inkjet-acumen-to-create-wireless-explosive-senso/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/31/researchers-use-inkjet-acumen-to-create-wireless-explosive-senso/#comments
Meet Krishna Naishadham and Xiaojuan (Judy) Song. They're researchers at the Georgia Institute of Technology, and those little devices they're holding may one day save you from an explosive device. This petite prototype is actually a paper-like wireless sensor that was printed using basic inkjet technology, developed by professor Manos Tentzeris. Its integrated lightweight antenna allows the sensor to link up with communication devices, while its functionalized carbon nanotubes enable it to pick up on even the slightest traces of ammonia -- an ingredient common to most IEDs. According to Tentzeris, the trick to such inkjet printing lies in the development of "inks" that can be deposited at relatively low temperatures. These inks, laced with silver nanoparticles, can then be uniformly distributed across paper-based components using a process called sonication. The result is a low-cost component that can adhere to just about any surface. The wireless sensor, meanwhile, requires comparatively low amounts of power, and could allow users to detect bombs from a safe distance. Naishadham says his team's device is geared toward military officials, humanitarian workers or any other bomb sniffers in hazardous situations, though there's no word yet on when it could enter the market. To find out more, careen past the break for the full PR.

Continue reading Researchers use inkjet acumen to create wireless explosive sensor from paper

Researchers use inkjet acumen to create wireless explosive sensor from paper originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 31 Oct 2011 08:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ammoniaantennabombbomb detectorBombDetectorcarbon nanotubesCarbonNanotubesCNTexplosiveexplosive deviceExplosiveDevicegeorgia institute of technologygeorgia techGeorgiaInstituteOfTechnologyGeorgiaTechIEDinkjetManos TentzerisManosTentzerismilitarypaperprintingprototyperesearchsensorsilver nanoparticleSilverNanoparticlesonicationwireless sensorWirelessSensorMon, 31 Oct 2011 08:26:00 EST<![CDATA[Mesa Robotics' mini-tank is perfectly happy on point (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/22/mesa-robotics-mini-tank-is-perfectly-happy-on-point-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/22/mesa-robotics-mini-tank-is-perfectly-happy-on-point-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/22/mesa-robotics-mini-tank-is-perfectly-happy-on-point-video/#comments The Acer ground-bot from Mesa Robotics does way more than your average 4,500-pound semi-autonomous mule. In addition to carrying kit and providing that extra bit of ballistic steel-deflecting cover, it also scans for IEDs using ground-penetrating radar and then autonomously switches into "flail" mode when it finds one -- digging up and detonating that critter with barely a break in its 6MPH stride. Did we mention it also acts as a landing pad for small drones? No? That's because the video after the break says it all. Cue obligatory guitars, game controllers and armchair gung-ho.

Continue reading Mesa Robotics' mini-tank is perfectly happy on point (video)

Mesa Robotics' mini-tank is perfectly happy on point (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 22 Oct 2011 04:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Acerautonomousautonomous vehicleautonomous vehiclesAutonomousVehicleAutonomousVehiclesbombbomb disposalBombDisposaldiffusedroneflailground-botIEDIEDsMesa RoboticsMesa Robotics AcerMesaRoboticsMesaRoboticsAcermilitarymini-tankroboticssemi-autonomoustankvideowargadgetSat, 22 Oct 2011 04:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Flight sim bubble offers 360-degree view, makes earth seem round]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/14/flight-sim-bubble-offers-360-degree-view-makes-earth-seem-round/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/14/flight-sim-bubble-offers-360-degree-view-makes-earth-seem-round/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/14/flight-sim-bubble-offers-360-degree-view-makes-earth-seem-round/#comments You've got the yoke, you've got the ridiculously over-priced gaming chair, so now all you need is Barco's 360-degree display dome. It uses 13 separate projectors to create a hi-def simulacrum of paradise inside a 3.4-meter acrylic sphere. The pilot sits in the middle, suddenly remembers why he took up aviation, and then connects with up to seven other bubbles to practice complicated squadron missions. More desperately inviting pics after the break.

Continue reading Flight sim bubble offers 360-degree view, makes earth seem round

Flight sim bubble offers 360-degree view, makes earth seem round originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 14 Oct 2011 15:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>360-degreeaviationaviatorBarcoflight simflight simulatorflight trainingFlightSimFlightSimulatorFlightTrainingHighDefinitionVideomilitarypilotprojectortop gunTopGuntraining simtraining simulatorTrainingSimTrainingSimulatorvirtual realityVirtualRealityFri, 14 Oct 2011 15:27:00 EST<![CDATA[IEE brings glasses-free 3D to the battlefield]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/14/iee-brings-glasses-free-3d-to-the-battlefield/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/14/iee-brings-glasses-free-3d-to-the-battlefield/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/14/iee-brings-glasses-free-3d-to-the-battlefield/#comments
In a war zone, having the right data is as important as the right bomb sniffing laser. IEE has melded its 4.8-inch 800 x 400 military data display with 3Ms autostereoscopic film so soldiers can see mission-critical data in three dimensions. The Preliminary Advanced Information device is designed to show accurate terrain maps, relay the picture from a drone camera or bring up the occasional blast of Monday Night Football.

Continue reading IEE brings glasses-free 3D to the battlefield

IEE brings glasses-free 3D to the battlefield originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 14 Oct 2011 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3MIEEIEE Preliminary Advanced InformationIeePreliminaryAdvancedInformationMilitaryWargadgetFri, 14 Oct 2011 14:31:00 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[ITT unveils GhostRider encryption device capable of securing US Army smartphones]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/11/itt-unveils-ghostrider-encryption-device-capable-of-securing-us/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/11/itt-unveils-ghostrider-encryption-device-capable-of-securing-us/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/11/itt-unveils-ghostrider-encryption-device-capable-of-securing-us/#comments
That may look like a Motorola Atrix Dell Venue, but it's actually something known as the GhostRider -- a new encryption device that could go a long way toward securing the Army's smartphones. Developed by defense company ITT, this revamped handset would allow military personnel to transmit secure text messages and phone calls over the Army's network, even if they're out on the battlefield. All they'd have to do is place their personal phones next to the GhostRider, tap and hold its touchscreen to activate the security features and begin texting away. When another GhostRider user receives an SMS, he or she would have to enter a pass code before reading it. The phone's security mechanisms, meanwhile, have been certified by the cryptographers at the NSA, which would certainly help justify its $1,500 price tag. The handset's display, meanwhile, looks awfully similar to the Army's Nett Warrior platform -- an Android-based OS that features a host of mapping functions designed explicitly for war zones. Officials unveiled the latest incarnation of Nett Warrior at the recent Association of the US Army gala in DC, though the platform's creators are still looking for the appropriate commercial device to host it -- unless, of course, GhostRider's software replaces it altogether. "We think Nett Warrior should be something like this," ITT vice president Richard Takahashi told Wired. "This can be the smart device." March past the break for more information, in ITT's jargon-laced PR.

Update: Thanks to readers who spotted it's a Venue rather than an Atrix. Our eyes must have been temporarily scrambled by the enemy. Just to be clear -- it's not the handset that's different, only the peripheral.

Continue reading ITT unveils GhostRider encryption device capable of securing US Army smartphones

ITT unveils GhostRider encryption device capable of securing US Army smartphones originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 11 Oct 2011 15:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidcallcontractcryptodefenseencryptionencryption deviceEncryptionDeviceghostriderittmappingmilitarymotorolamotorola atrixMotorolaAtrixnational security agencyNationalSecurityAgencynett warriorNettWarriorNSAoperating systemOperatingSystemOSpasscodephonephone callPhoneCallsecuritysmartphonesoldierTextingUIus armyUsArmywarwar zonewargadgetWarZoneTue, 11 Oct 2011 15:22:00 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[This giant military spy blimp is really hard to miss]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/10/this-giant-military-spy-blimp-is-really-hard-to-miss/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/10/this-giant-military-spy-blimp-is-really-hard-to-miss/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/10/this-giant-military-spy-blimp-is-really-hard-to-miss/#comments
What's this spy blimp doing next to an 18-wheeler? We're not entirely sure, but it's certainly not being subtle about it. This jumbo-sized floater, codenamed "Blue Devil Block 2," measures some 370 feet in length and comprises a whopping 1.4 million cubic feet. Originally inflated in September, the definitely-not-blue Blue Devil took flight for the first time last week in North Carolina and, if all goes to plan, should head to Afghanistan by the middle of next year. The Air Force says the blimp will hover above the country for five days at a time, collecting surveillance data from 20,000 feet above the ground and transmitting its findings to US intelligence officers on the ground, via laser. When that's taken care of, it'll be used to make the biggest omelette ever.

This giant military spy blimp is really hard to miss originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 10 Oct 2011 19:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>18-wheelerafghanistanAfghanistan warAfghanistanWarair forceAirForceblimpBlue Devil Block 2BlueDevilBlock2eggenormousespionagegianthugeintelligencelasermilitaryminipostspyspy blimpSpyBlimpsubtletysurveillanceUS Air ForceUsAirForcewarwar on terrorwargadgetWarOnTerrorMon, 10 Oct 2011 19:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Scout Observer replaces military SATCOM, is powered by the iPhone 4]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/11/scout-observer-replaces-military-satcom-is-powered-by-the-iphon/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/11/scout-observer-replaces-military-satcom-is-powered-by-the-iphon/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/11/scout-observer-replaces-military-satcom-is-powered-by-the-iphon/#comments If you need to channel your inner MacGyver, there's a tool for that... predictably, it's powered by your smartphone. By connecting an iPhone 4 to the Scout Observer's Toolkit, it's transformed into a spectrum analyzer, power meter, multimeter and Low Noise Block Downconverter (LNB). In English, that means the device lets you locate and verify satellite signals (including other mobile signals), measure their strength, and determine GPS location (amongst other things). The six-pound device replaces the standard 160-pound SATCOM terminal, making it the perfect accessory for covert operations -- if those are the kinds of romps you prefer on the weekend. The company is now accepting pre-orders for shipment sometime in Q4, and hopes to roll out versions for other phones in the near future.

Scout Observer replaces military SATCOM, is powered by the iPhone 4 originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 11 Sep 2011 14:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidcellphonesGPSipadiphoneLNBLow Noise Block DownconverterLowNoiseBlockDownconvertermilitarymilitary techmilitary technologiesmilitary technologyMilitaryTechMilitaryTechnologiesMilitaryTechnologymobilemultimeterpower meterPowerMeterSATCOMScoutScout ObserverScout ToolkitScoutObserverScoutToolkitsmartphonesspectrum analyzerSpectrumAnalyzertabletSun, 11 Sep 2011 14:26:00 EST