The US Army has selected Android to power the smartphones which eventually will be given to every soldier. This doesn’t mean that every solider will get a standard issue of Droid. Actually the term smartphone may be a bit of a misnomer, this gadget is a portable computer and communications device strapped to every soldier’s hip. Wired’s Danger Room blog reports, “A prototype device running Android called the Joint Battle Command-Platform (JBC-P Handheld), developed by tech nonprofit MITRE, is undergoing tests.“
Systems integration is key: It could allow soldiers on the ground to fine-tune targeting for missiles and other munitions, as well as request specific aerial drone or satellite reconnaissance. It might also borrow from supply-chain software to manage requests for equipment and supplies. And it could support or enhance field medical treatment, as well as all kinds of in-field training.
These JBC-P Handhelds will communicate over several existing military radio networks. Third-party developers will be building apps and services for this Army smartphone. In July, the Army will release a development kit for the platform.