What are the current and emerging trends and technologies in GIS and remote sensing for defense?

1 Cloud-based GIS

One of the major trends in GIS and remote sensing for defense is the adoption of cloud-based platforms and services, which offer scalability, accessibility, security, and collaboration benefits. Cloud-based GIS allows users to access, store, share, and analyze large volumes of spatial data from different locations and devices, without the need for expensive and complex hardware and software. Cloud-based remote sensing enables the delivery of near-real-time imagery and analytics from various sources, such as commercial satellites, drones, and open data. Examples of cloud-based GIS and remote sensing platforms for defense include Esri's ArcGIS Online, Google Earth Engine, Amazon Web Services, and Microsoft Azure.

2 Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

Another key trend in GIS and remote sensing for defense is the application of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) techniques, which enable the automation, enhancement, and innovation of spatial data processing and analysis. AI and ML can help users to extract, classify, detect, and recognize features and patterns from complex and diverse imagery and signals, such as buildings, vehicles, terrain, vegetation, activity, and anomalies. AI and ML can also help users to generate, synthesize, and augment spatial data, such as creating realistic 3D models, simulations, and scenarios. Examples of AI and ML tools for GIS and remote sensing for defense include TensorFlow, PyTorch, ArcGIS Pro, ENVI, and ERDAS IMAGINE.

3 Geospatial Big Data and Analytics

A related trend in GIS and remote sensing for defense is the emergence of geospatial big data and analytics, which refer to the collection, management, and analysis of massive and diverse spatial data sets from multiple sources and domains. Geospatial big data and analytics can provide users with valuable insights and solutions for complex and dynamic defense challenges, such as situational awareness, threat assessment, risk mitigation, and impact evaluation. Geospatial big data and analytics can also enable users to leverage new data sources and types, such as social media, mobile devices, internet of things, and crowdsourcing. Examples of geospatial big data and analytics tools for defense include GeoSpark, GeoMesa, GeoWave, and Hadoop.

4 Geovisualization and Immersive Technologies

A further trend in GIS and remote sensing for defense is the advancement of geovisualization and immersive technologies, which offer new ways of displaying, exploring, and interacting with spatial data. Geovisualization and immersive technologies can enhance the user experience and engagement, as well as the communication and dissemination of spatial information. Geovisualization and immersive technologies can also support the training and education of defense personnel, as well as the testing and evaluation of defense systems and operations. Examples of geovisualization and immersive technologies for defense include virtual reality, augmented reality, mixed reality, holograms, and dashboards.

5 Open Source and Standards

A final trend in GIS and remote sensing for defense is the adoption of open source and standards, which promote the interoperability, transparency, and collaboration of spatial data and systems. Open source and standards can help users to access, use, and modify spatial data and software from various sources and platforms, without the restrictions and costs of proprietary solutions. Open source and standards can also help users to share, exchange, and integrate spatial data and systems across different organizations and domains, enhancing the coordination and cooperation of defense activities. Examples of open source and standards for GIS and remote sensing for defense include QGIS, GDAL, OSGeo, OGC, and ISO.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?