New augmented reality (AR) applications can make it easier to locate a chemical and biological (CB) threat by using real-time data, critical for Warfighters on the “tactical edge”—an area where they may not be able to proceed safely and may be limited in communications connectivity. This technology is a new area of interest for the Defense Threat Reduction Agency’s (DTRA’s) Chemical and Biological Technologies Department in its role as the Joint Science and Technology Office (JSTO) for the Chemical and Biological Defense Program (CBDP).
The Pacific Northwest National Laboratory developed these AR technologies for DTRA-JSTO through their annual summer intern contest to provide a configurable and immersive operating picture for the Warfighter at the tactical edge, as well as provide information back to various echelons of command. This work will enhance the Warfighter’s situational awareness and provide valuable information to the command for more informed decision-making.