Information Warfare: October 14, 2004

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The U.S. Army has rapidly developed a new wireless networking technology that allows UAVs and ground sensors to broadcast what they see back to the troops in real time. Called SuperCrumbs, these two pound transmitters, are, literally, black boxes that can placed anywhere and can broadcast up to 15 kilometers (using multiple frequencies and encryption.) The networked sensor system is called Pathfinder, and can be set up as quickly as the SuperCrumbs can be turned on and the UAVs and sensors deployed. Anyone with access to the network can view everything that all the sensors can see. There are already 13 systems in Iraq, with the 3rd Infantry division, and 30 more systems have been ordered. The system provides an enormous information edge. Troops using the system can keep an eye on a large area, without using troops, or exposing them to harm. Using troops for that kind of recon and outpost duty is very dangerous, as a larger enemy force can quickly overwhelm you. With Pathfinder, the most you will lose will be a wireless camera, a UAV or a SuperCrumb box. 

 

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