U.S. Army Invests $11 Million in Tern's Next-Gen Navigation Technology

The United States Army has awarded an $11.26 million contract to Austin-based tech startup Tern, aiming to implement its innovative GPS alternative technology in military vehicles. This decision comes in light of increasing GPS disruptions, particularly noted in conflict zones such as the Middle East and Ukraine.

Revolutionizing Navigation for the Battlefield

Tern describes its solution as akin to 'Google Maps for the battlefield,' providing a reliable navigation system that does not rely on GPS. The specifics of the deployment remain confidential, but the Army's choice reflects a growing urgency to find resilient navigation technologies amidst rising concerns over GPS jamming capabilities demonstrated by adversaries.

How Tern's Technology Works

According to Tern's co-founder and CEO, Shaun Moore, the technology is designed to tap into the data generated by military vehicles without interfering with their operations. By connecting a device to the vehicle's diagnostics board, Tern’s system can determine its location autonomously using proprietary methods. This capability is crucial in diverse environments, from urban tunnels to arid deserts, where traditional GPS may falter.

A Veteran's Perspective on Validation

Brett Harrison, Tern's co-founder, brings a military background to the venture. His experiences in Afghanistan as part of a special operations unit have fueled the company's mission. He emphasized the importance of creating a practical, scalable solution rather than just a theoretical exercise. The new contract is seen as a significant endorsement of Tern's technology, validating years of effort to ensure it meets military needs.

Source: techcrunch.com