DEVELOPMENT OF A TRACKING SYSTEM FOR MI L ITARY PERSONNEL DURING F I E LD OPERATIONS

Abstract

The research seeks to address the problem of soldiers missing in action during field operations and remain unaccounted for, resulting in jeopardising the mission or loss of command and control during the field operation. The study aims to develop a conceptual model of a tracking system for Nigeria military during field operations. The objectives are to develop a conceptual model of tracking system for the Nigerian Army (NA) as well as design and evaluate a simulation model consisting of physical models of a tracking device and a command receiver platform. The concept proposed involves mounting a tracking device on a soldier and collecting some vital signs and their location data. These data is then sent to a command receiver platform, from where it can be further sent via a satellite link to the rear formations and higher headquarters, the soldier can also communicate with these rear formation commanders via Morse code. This process is demonstrated through a simulation model consisting of a tracking device and a command receiver platform which were both design and constructed using open embedded systems (Arduino). The computer system was used to simulate the central database. The simulation model was tested within a very short range and real time values of body temperature, heart beat rate/ pulse rate, location coordinates in longitudes and latitudes, speed and time were sent from the tracked individual to the command receiver platform. The results obtained during the testing of the physical models were compared with the standard results from the thermometer, Google coordinates data and using the hand to feel pulse rates, and these results were near same and obtained in real time. However, the range of communication was short and interference was not particularly guided against. It is expected that these research work be useful for developing and implementing real time tracking systems for the Nigerian Military. It could also be helpful in solving the farmers/herders crisis in the country.