# Tactical NAV

Tactical NAV, also known as TACNAV-X, is a location-based tracking app designed for use by military personnel. The app is primarily designed to assist in identifying targets, pinpointing enemy fire and mapping waypoints.
The app is used to direct mortar and artillery fire, support close combat, and facilitate close air support operations.
Tactical NAV also helps users efficiently relay critical information to tactical operations centers for prompt decision-making regarding airstrikes or medical evacuations.
The TACNAV-X platform is intended to enhance situational awareness, refine navigation capabilities, and assist in tactical decision-making across various operational environments.

## Overview

Tactical NAV allows users to pinpoint enemy fire and identify targets using their mobile phone's camera, the Military Grid Reference System (MGRS) and the GPS. The app is used to direct mortar and artillery fire. It is also used in close combat and close air support operations.
Information gathered by the app can be sent to a tactical operations center, where a decision is made to conduct an airstrike or provide medical evacuation to wounded troops. Waypoint and location data can be shared via Facebook, text and email.
The app includes features designed to make its use less conspicuous, such as a red-light user interface, that conceals light from the phone's screen at night, AES-256 encryption and biometrics to enhance security, and various other features.
Additionally, Tactical NAV is used by U.S. military and NATO forces and is designed to support situational awareness, navigation, and tactical decision-making for military personnel and outdoor enthusiasts.
Tactical NAV has been utilized by Ukrainian forces during the conflict with Russian troops in the war in Ukraine. Additionally, the software played a role in aiding a Ukrainian family's escape to Poland in 2022.
On August 14, 2024, in a LinkedIn post, Jonathan Springer confirmed that soldiers in the U.S. Army, as well as the Chilean and Taiwanese armed forces, are actively using Tactical NAV in real-world scenarios, including live-fire exercises and deployments.
In addition to its military applications, Tactical NAV has recently been used by civilians and law enforcement in the Philippines to combat drug trafficking, particularly in the regions of Cebu and near Manila. This has been independently confirmed through communications with the Tactical NAV support team and Jonathan Springer, though further details remain undisclosed due to the sensitive nature of ongoing operations.

## History

Tactical NAV was designed by U.S. Army Captain Jonathan J. Springer, a Field Artillery officer serving as a Battalion Fire Support Officer (FSO) in the 101st Airborne Division. Springer conceived the idea for the app during his third tour in Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
On June 25, 2010, after a rocket attack by the Taliban killed two soldiers in his battalion, he was inspired to create an app that would prevent similar losses in the future, enhance situational awareness, and assist soldiers serving on combat deployments.
In 2010, Springer founded TacNav Systems (formerly AppDaddy Technologies) to develop mobile applications for use by military personnel. He tested the app during combat operations in eastern Afghanistan and verified TACNAV-X's accuracy using DAGRs, AFATDS, Falcon View, CPOF, ATAK, and other approved Department of Defense (DoD) systems.
Tactical NAV has proven to be accurate within 1mm of any approved DoD device or software.
The app was released on the App Store on February 14, 2011. As of 2012, the app had been downloaded 8,000 times by members of the United States Armed Forces, Canadian Armed Forces and Australian Defence Force.
As of 2024, Tactical NAV has garnered widespread popularity, with over 200,000 downloads worldwide. It consistently ranks among the top 10 navigation apps on both the App Store and Google Play, reflecting its enduring appeal and utility to users across various platforms.

## Future developments

Jonathan Springer, the founder and CEO of TacNav Systems, has announced plans to change the app’s branding from Tactical NAV to TACNAV-X.
TacNav Systems is also working to expand the app’s accessibility by developing versions for MacOS, Windows OS, and Apple Watch, in addition to the existing iOS and Android platforms.
Tactical NAV is expected to continue serving as a valuable tool for military personnel worldwide, supporting operational efficiency and precision in a range of challenging environments.

## Recent updates and features

As of November 2024, Tactical NAV has introduced several enhancements to improve its functionality and user experience:
* Apple Watch Integration: The app now includes a dedicated Apple Watch application, allowing users to access navigation features directly from their wearable devices.
* Real-Time Weather Information: Integration of real-time weather updates provides users with current environmental conditions, aiding in mission planning and execution.
* Offline Mapping Capabilities: Users can now access offline maps, ensuring uninterrupted navigation support even in areas without cellular connectivity. This feature is particularly beneficial for operations in remote or contested environments.
* Tactical Drawing Mode: The app offers a tactical drawing mode that enables users to create overlays, plan routes, and conduct after-action reviews, enhancing mission planning and analysis.
* Enhanced Security Features: To ensure operational security, Tactical NAV incorporates AES-256 encryption and biometric authentication, safeguarding sensitive information.
These updates reflect Tactical NAV's commitment to providing military personnel with reliable and advanced navigational tools to support their missions.