Email

GPS, or global positioning systems, are used by many people in all areas of life. These mobile tracking devices can be used in a surprising number of helpful ways. For example, the same GPS tracking device could be used for a fun scavenger hunt or in a rescue mission to save a life. Advanced GPS technology has saved many lives, and will continue to do so. Many lives that have been saved from GPS technology are those of military personnel. The U.S. military uses GPS tracking systems for navigating, tracking targets, guiding bombs, rescuing casualties, and updating maps, just to name a few. One of the most important ways the military uses GPS is to locate soldiers in distress.

One device commonly used is the Defense Advanced GPS Receiver, or DAGR. This device is small enough to be easily carried by military personnel. It allows rescue teams to pinpoint the location of missing squad members, making an emergency rescue much more efficient. For one soldier in particular, the DAGR made a huge difference. Curtis Crawford was seriously injured while serving in Iraq, but because of the signals from his DAGR, he was able to receive medical attention quickly. According to Crawford, the DAGR saved his life.

GPS navigation devices also help protect many soldiers and make their jobs easier. Many teams carry a GPS navigation system with them to help maneuver through unfamiliar territory. These devices can also provide security during extreme weather conditions like sandstorms by enabling military units to be sure of their direction. Troops equipped with GPS navigation devices have the advantage over their opponents even when fighting in their enemies’ territory.

Several U.S. companies that supply the military with GPS products are developing new devices like the DAGR, which is a fairly recent development. These manufacturers intend to produce smaller, lightweight devices with the same or better capabilities as the existing technology. GPS technology has made huge strides in the past decade with new scientific discoveries. GPS applications for the military are becoming available for civilian use, and continue to save the lives of Americans like Curtis Crawford.

Article Written by Greg Bartlett