US Air Force Testing Google Glass For The Battlefield

Google Glass is now being tested for use in battle.  The research team, Battlefield Air Targeting Man-Aided K[n]owledge (BATMAN),  who work for the US Air Force, is currently beta-testing the technology for military use.  So far, testing has had positive results.

One of BATMAN’S software developers, Andres Calvo, said that part of Google Glass’ appeal is that it can “access information very quickly.”  2nd Lt. Anthony Eastin who is a researcher for BATMAN says that some of its positive aspects “are its low power, its low footprint, it sits totally above the eyes, and doesn’t block images or hinder vision.”

Glass may be used for things like air controllers helping aircrafts to their targets; search and rescue assignments; communication with overhead aircrafts; and ground troops in action. Although the Air Force didn’t officially have a relationship with Google, they earned the rights to two pairs of glasses through the Explorer program.  They had to pay $1,500 for the glasses.  “The Glass Explorer program includes people from all walks of life, including doctors, firefighters, and parents. Anyone can apply to become a Glass Explorer, provided he or she is a U.S. resident and over the age of 18,” says a Google spokesperson.

Google X is a special projects division of Google who are currently working on driverless cars and high-altitude balloons that provide the world with Internet.  The  Google Glass device is another creation from Google X, it is Android powered and looks like a pair of eyeglasses.   Google Glass includes a display comparable to an advanced fighter jet or commercial planes that transmits information to air traffic control as well as other aircrafts.  As for the Glass devices that BATMAN are currently testing, they are impressed so far.  If they military intend to adopt Google Glass as part of their military kit, this could create a huge revenue for Google.  The question is, how will it perform when under attack?

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[Image via nbcnews]

SOURCE: http://venturebeat.com/2014/04/08/u-s-air-force-is-testing-google-glass-building-apps-for-battlefield-use-exclusive/