Archive note: This report was originally published on 30 May 2014. Its wording has been lightly edited for clarity while preserving the original report and source attribution.
In what was seen as a notable demonstration of open-source technology, the US Army purchased Linux-powered smart rifles for evaluation.
TrackingPoint, an Austin, Texas-based technology company, said the US military had acquired six of its smart rifles, priced at the time between $10,000 and $27,000. A shooter could tag a target through the rifle’s scope. The Linux-powered computer inside the system would then calculate the shot and guide the shooter on how to aim and when to fire.
A demonstration video showed how the advanced system worked. The technology appeared impressive, although its durability and effectiveness under real battlefield conditions had yet to be established.
The rifle was an unusual example of how adaptable Linux and open-source software could be beyond conventional computers and servers.
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