The Future of Warfare: Innovation at Fort Huachuca
A Cutting-Edge Showcase
Fort Huachuca in Southern Arizona recently transformed into a hub of military innovation, as it hosted an exciting event focused on cutting-edge weapons and technology. This gathering, titled “Experimentation: Transformation in Contact” (EXTIC), marked the first time the fort has been utilized for such a pioneering demonstration. Attendees had the unique opportunity to witness advancements that could redefine how the U.S. military engages in warfare.
Enhancing Communication on the Battlefield
One of the primary objectives of EXTIC was to test new technologies that enhance communication between decision-makers and troops engaged in combat. Chris Shumac, a Department of Defense engagement manager, expressed the significance of these innovations by stating, “This makes every warfighter not only more lethal but safer.” The incorporation of advanced communication systems aims to extend the capabilities of military personnel and bolster their awareness of emerging technologies.
Showcasing Revolutionary Technologies
The event featured an array of innovative tools designed to improve battlefield efficiency and safety. Among these was a dual-purpose surveillance tool named Apollo, showcased by Scott Fournier of Digital Force Technologies. Apollo integrates camera and radar surveillance, providing a comprehensive view of the battlefield situation.
In a remarkable demonstration of modern manufacturing, Mike Hogges, president of Echomav, unveiled a fully 3D-printed drone. Hogges highlighted the drone’s cost-effectiveness and safety implications, saying, “Tech like this cuts long-term costs and keeps boots on the ground safer.” The capability of fixing the drone on-site further emphasizes its practicality for real-world military applications.
Advanced Awareness Solutions
Another innovative highlight was a helmet demonstrated by Leonard Sklencar from KaizenLabs, specifically designed for drone detection. This technology comes at a surprisingly low price—under $1,000—granting warfighters crucial extra seconds of situational awareness, potentially making a life-saving difference in the heat of battle.
The Power of Connectivity: Archnet
Perhaps one of the most intriguing features showcased was a seemingly simple box running the program known as Archnet. This technology enabled real-time data sharing between Fort Huachuca and the Playas Research and Training Center, located approximately 170 miles away. Chad Bowie of MMB Solutions emphasized the global applicability of this technology, stating, “Options for deployment truly are global; you could take this to Alaska, Florida.”
Shumac elaborated on the broader vision for this technology, referring to this event as a “first proof of concept.” He shared exciting prospects for the future, suggesting that the aim is to connect multiple military ranges to create a common operating picture.
Preparation for Combat
The data collected at EXTIC is expected to play a crucial role in preparing these advanced technologies for combat scenarios. This experimentation at Fort Huachuca isn’t merely an exercise; rather, it serves as a critical step in ensuring that the military is equipped with the most effective and innovative tools available.
By pushing the boundaries of military technology in this manner, the U.S. military is taking proactive steps to enhance the safety and effectiveness of its forces. As these innovations move closer to deployment, they stand to significantly impact the future landscape of warfare.