The term "pocket", although used to describe particularly small-sized versions of larger objects, is rarely literal.
However, in the case of the Cargo Pocket Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (CP-ISR) program, of the US Army's Natick Soldier Research, Development and Engineering Center, it corresponds to reality, as it involves small reconnaissance helicopters-drones that literally fit in a pocket and are intended for use by soldiers and small teams operating in "difficult" environments.
The goal of the program is to develop a portable/mobile sensor for soldiers that will increase environmental awareness by providing real-time video of dangerous zones.
Although larger systems have been used in similar roles for about a decade, none of them work directly at the squad level, where soldiers need to be able to see around a corner or into the next room. CP-ISR is designed to provide such capabilities as assessing threats that may exist in, for example, a village, or within a dense area of vegetation.
“The Cargo Pocket ISR is a true example of an applied systems approach to developing new capabilities for soldiers,” notes Dr. Laurel Allender, NSRDEC executive. “It provides an integrated capability for the soldier and small units for increased situational awareness and understanding, with negligible impact on their load and mobility.”.
NSRDEC engineers explored existing commercially available technologies. Prox Dynamics' PD-100 Black Hornet is a palm-sized helicopter that weighs just 16 grams, can fly for 20 minutes, provides real-time video via a digital data link from three cameras, and operates with GPS navigation. Tiny propellers and engines make it extremely difficult to detect.
The system's features appear to meet the requirements, but more work is needed. Efforts are underway to adapt the technology for use by soldiers and small units, which include redesigning the data link to be compatible with US military standards, integrating equipment for low-light conditions, and developing and improving navigation algorithms for better operation indoors.
Source: planet-greece.blogspot.com
