Language Technology for the Battlefield

The language barrier can become a high stakes game in war situations. Imagine a British or American soldier trying to communicate with Iraqi civilians with simple commands and the endless possibility of misunderstandings that can become fatal in the middle of a war zone.

It is easy to think that ever soldier can have his/her own translator, but this is impractical. Technology however, has again taken upon itself to fill part of the gap, with a voice recognition device that offers a technological solution to the age-old problem of language translation. The most recent example for this, according to the BBC News, is the much awaited launch of a translation device named Ahky (Arabic for”speak”), designed to improve communications between soldiers and the Iraqi people.

This device is based on voice recognition technology. It can assist the soldiers communicate effectively with civilians, especially in highly charged situations.

The device is expected to look like an extended wristwatch, making it easy to carry.
In an interview with the BBC, Mr. Ismail said, “"If this device can help save innocent lives in a conflict situation then that has to be good."

With translation technological solutions such as these, the potential for better understanding increases. This device is not only effective in military situations, but it is also an asset for many hospitals and other public services.