Troops Get Battle-Ready Mobile Devices

Ground troops in Afghanistan now can use secure hand-held mobile devices, complete with apps that help them perform their missions. Developed by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), the TransApps (Transformative Applications) program gives bearers of the devices access to digital maps, critical information, and the ability to make quick mission changes when warranted. Additionally, medical teams can document and triage first aid for injured comrades, while convoys can take steps to use safe routes and avoid improvised explosive-device attacks. The system is secure because it uses military radios rather than commercial, wifi or cellular networks, according to DARPA. Now in use by 3,000 soldiers, it contains more than 50 applications. Development of TransApps began in 2010 and debuted in Afghanistan 18 months ago.