The revolution in wireless technology has made smartphones an integral part of peoples lives. In todays hyper-connected world, smartphones could possibly help save hundreds of thousands of lives in the aftermath of a disaster or humanitarian crisis. Software developed by computer scientists could be used to quickly and accurately locate missing people, rapidly identify cases of malnutrition, and effectively point people towards safe zonessimply by checking their phones. From a systems engineering and analytical perspective, this study examines the feasibility of using smartphones, connected through commercial and private communication networks and coupled with different types of applications, to effectively assist in humanitarian aid and disaster relief (HADR) operations. The study analyzes the operational requirements and presents networking solutions and a list of applications that have proven useful in HADR operations. This study allows defense organizations to have a deeper appreciation of the possibilities of commercial smartphones and their applications in HADR operations. The study also highlights the problems associated with smartphone technology in HADR operations. Defense organizations may benefit from and implement the list of feasible and proven applications presented in the study.
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