RFID

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RFID Systems Support Military Sensitive Item Management

Megan Frey

Professor Paula Sugg

MBA 525
Management Information System

Master of Business Administration

School of Adult and Extended Learning
Oakland City University

February 17, 2011

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The Integration of RFID Systems in Military Units

Since the beginning of armies back in 1775, tracking sensitive items and maintaining in-

transit asset visibility continues to remain a critical requirement of military commanders. Over

the years, development of various tools enabled logisticians to track assets and sensitive items. A

few examples of sensitive items include night vision devices, weapons, ammunition, controlled

cryptographic devices, explosives, and unit equipment costing more than $50,000. In mid 2004,

the Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics issued a policy which

required the implementation of radio frequency identification (RFID) across the Department of

Defense (DOD). Since then, the DOD took a leadership role in passive RFID technology as an

early adopter of the technology and as the developer and setting the standard for usage (Estevez,

2005).

Generally, the implementations of new and emerging technologies create the need for

new business practices in order to obtain the maximum benefits. However, new practices

embedded with old rules create a frustrating environment for both the logistician and the war

fighter and most often results in dual business processes operating at the same time. With that in

mind, the DOD strives to develop an enterprise-level approach to synchronizing the RFID

system efforts within the military (Dias & Ringdahl, 2008). Now with more than a decade of

experience and most extensive RFID network, the DOD continues to standardize the use of

active RFID technology and moves forward with the application of passive RFID technologies

(Estevez, 2005). Active RFID systems use a battery within the tag to power the tag and its radio
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frequency communications circuitry. Passive RFID relies on radio frequency energy transferred

from the reader to the tag to power the tag (Robinson, 2008).

Current applications of RFID systems used in military units include supply chain

management, asset tracking and security. Current systems help track the mountains of materiel

moved throughout the supply chain (Robinson, 2008). Current RFID systems also provide asset

visibility and real-time inventory through automated registration of items in warehouses. RFID

also combined with mobile computing and web technologies enable another way for military

units to identify, track, and manage non-sensitive assets. This provides commanders in the field a

way to order parts and track delivery to ensure equipment arrives in time for engagements with

the enemy. Another application involves laptop computers integrated with RFID readers to

eliminate paperwork and manual data entry. This also grants third parties, such as manufacturers

and contractors, access to update data, inspection history and transfer of documentation. Military

units utilize RFID systems for access control to restricted areas and personnel tracking as well

(“RFID,” 2010). However, the military continues to research and implement new applications of

RFID technologies to provide better security, management, and improved process efficiency and

accuracy for military units.

Key areas of interest that many military units are looking at to improve with the RFID

system are overall efficiency with asset issue and turn-in, physical security, improved accuracy

of monthly, quarterly, and annual serial number inventories, maintenance control of weapons,

and combating unit commander’s concerns. With only a few units testing new RFID technology
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for sensitive item management, the outcome looks promising (Robinson, 2009). Integrating

RFID systems in military units to support the management of critical assets will improve the

accuracy, efficiency and reliability of tracking and maintaining sensitive items.

Improving Efficiency and Accuracy of Asset Issue and Turn-In

RFID systems create a more efficient and accurate solution for individual issue and turn-

in of sensitive items. Currently, units spend a lot of time to complete the process of issuing an

individual a sensitive item due to the importance of the items and the attention of detail required

to complete the process. Errors often occur due to fatigue and stress level put on Soldiers to

complete the process accurately and efficiently. The lengthy process also takes valuable time

away from units that could be spent training. Integrating RFID technology will provide

Commanders with a solution to this problem.

Currently, to issue sensitive items to each Soldier takes approximately five

minutes. Most units with an average size company encompass roughly 150 Soldiers and about

500 sensitive items. Therefore, it takes 15 hours for an average size company to issue out all

sensitive items. Many companies find 15 hours to issue items unacceptable. Units do not have

the time or resources to continue with such a time consuming process. Some special units within

the Army mandate 12 hours, from start to finish, for complete unit readiness. A 15 hour long

process creates fatigue which can lead to human error (Garner, 2010). Commanders cannot

tolerate human error when dealing with millions of dollars worth of sensitive items. One human

error in the tracking of sensitive items could put the Commander in jail.
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Individual Soldiers encompass a heavy responsibility when dealing with sensitive items.

Missing sensitive items initiate an investigation of the Soldier, Supply Non-commissioned

officer (NCO), and the Commander. On a military installation, one lost item shuts down the

entire base; all exits and entrances remain closed until the lost item reappears. The DOD

mandates that Soldiers found liable for the loss of a sensitive item must pay the full cost of the

item. In some cases, punishments for Commanders require serving time in jail and the potential

for discharge from the Army. The loss of a sensitive item destroys trust and relationships within

units which are critical command factors. Once the trust diminishes, it can take a long time for

an individual to regain trust with the Commander. These common situations that occur within

units present the need for a fast, accurate way of tracking sensitive items during issue and turn-in

procedures.

RFID systems provide Commanders with a reliable, expedite and accurate way to issue

sensitive items. Units with integrated RFID technologies no longer execute the long, 15 hour

process. The system can correctly identify each Soldier and sensitive item with a unique code

(Garner, 2010). Each Soldier possesses a unique tag that mirrors the sensitive item(s) assigned to

him or her. During an issue, the Soldier presents the tag and the Supply NCO or representative

will scan the tag and the item with a hand held device called a transponder. The programmable

transponder device provides a digital database for historical and life cycle analyses that many

units cannot obtain with manual-data entry (Garner, 2010). The system can scan and ID each

item in less than one second which makes issuing and turning in of sensitive items considerably
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faster. The system’s software tracks and maintains scanned data and possesses the capabilities to

share it via an intranet or extranet connection. This enables units to track a sensitive item back to

the item’s earliest existence in the unit and match it to every Soldier that ever had possession of

the item. RFID technology decreases the time for individual issue and turn in from five minutes

a Soldier to less than 30 seconds which makes issue and turn in of over 500 items decrease from

15 hours to less than two hours (Garner, 2010). Units save critical time during rapid deployments

and also gives back valuable training time to the Commander to better prepare the war fighter.

Implementing RFID systems into individual units provide many benefits for the issue and

turn-in of sensitive items. It can greatly decrease the time spent during the process which helps

to decrease the chance of human error. It also provides a better way to track and manage the

historical information for each sensitive item belonging to the unit. Most importantly, the system

provides better management and inventory control of sensitive items for commanders. This, in

turn, provides the unit with an increase in visibility and improved over watch of the unit’s

physical security.

Improvement of Physical Security of Sensitive Items

Educators teach commanders early during initial levels of education, the importance of

the unit physical security. Many young Commanders hold the responsibility for millions of

dollars worth of equipment and must ensure the accountability of the equipment at all times,

even during movement to another country. Commanders and units can easily track in-transit

equipment with the technology and upgraded tracking software aids in the tracking of weapons.
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The growing need of synchronization of new technology enforces researchers and units to take

old concepts and make improvements. Either way, physical security of a unit demands full focus

from Commanders and leaves no room for poor judgment or error, especially during movement

of sensitive items over long distances. RFID systems present Commanders with an overall

improvement of the physical security of sensitive items while in combat or at original home

station.

Since the early 1990s, the DOD utilized RFID to track military shipments. Although

RFID systems matured in the technology spectrum, a recent contract proves that the technology

continues to refine and improve (Robinson, 2009). RFID software equips deployed units with

improved over watch of unit equipment location and status. The technology linked with satellite

communications provides real-time tracking of shipments, even in remote areas such as

Afghanistan (Robinson, 2009). Units utilize this information to know precise times of re-supply

and also to coordinate pick up of supplies. It also allows Commanders to know, at any given

minute, the location of the units’ equipment and expected time of arrival at new location. This

information plays a critical role in military planning and unit movement. Prior to deployment,

units prepare a unit deployment list (UDL), burn the information containing the level 6 data for

each container to a RFID tag, and print the transportation control movement document (Scarlett,

Montgomery, & Roberson, 2006). Many units implement this process into training plans due to

the critical nature of the equipment and the importance of correctly documenting all level 6 data.
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Scarlett et al. (2006) states that level 6 data include descriptions and serial numbers for all items

in a security container or vehicle.

Preparing a unit to mobilize presents a very complex process that Soldiers preparing the

equipment must completely and fully understand. War fighters cannot self-sustain if equipment

and supplies do not make it to the combat arena. RFID systems and software enable

Commanders and Supply NCOs to remove the frustrating complexity out of the deployment

operation scheme and allows Commanders to better focus on the unit’s physical security and

tracking of weapons.

Many entities outside the military already use RFID systems to track weapons. Numerous

companies improved the use of RFID tags and created unique ways for individuals to track

personally owned weapons. These companies also offer many benefits to military organizations

at competitive pricing for improved weapons management. The companies provide RFID

materials in numerous shapes and sizes that permanently attach to the weapon and that include

RFID readers. Most companies even offer 100% accuracy (“SkyRFID,” 2011).

Racking for armories offers a new form of RFID technology offered to military units.

The racks include RFID readers inside that scan the weapon’s unique RFID tag when placed

inside. The racks provide an easy way to transport weapons over long distances and an efficient

way to track weapon and rack location. Military cases with RFID tags provide another option to

units and enables commanders to track weapons and all other sensitive items (“SkyRFID,”
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2011). Competitive markets offer RFID tags in all shapes and sizes, long readability and short

readability, high heat and low heat capabilities, and water and fire proof options.

Certain RFID tags provide users a GPS location of the attached item. This technology

increases security and decreases theft in units. Units obtain the capability to find weapons that

young, inexperienced Soldiers may leave behind in a training area or stolen by enemy forces.

Another new GPS technology related to RFID systems is the PDA RFID Gen 2 reader writer

offered by a civilian company to military units. The reader or transponder reads unique RFID

tags and equipped with an external patch antenna for long distance reading and writing. The GPS

enables users to track the read location of a tag and connects to a real-time database for online

verification (“SkyRFID,” 2011). This allows units and Commanders to paint a more accurate

picture for historical data of sensitive items which aid during mandatory inventories completed

by the unit.

Conducting Efficient and Accurate Sensitive Item Inventory

In order to control the physical security and accountability of sensitive items, the DOD

mandated that all units perform serial number inventories for all sensitive items. Personnel

constraints and lack of time force complex inventories to remain incomplete. Due to the tedious

process of accurately identifying all sensitive items by serial numbers, Soldiers create many

errors during completion of the inventory. In the long run, this greatly hinders the unit in

maintaining sensitive item accountability. RFID software, if implemented, enables units to

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conduct more efficient serial and accurate mandatory monthly, quarterly, and annual serial

number inventories.

Many units fail to complete an accurate serial number inventory due to time and

personnel constraints. The process that takes place in order to complete the inventory contains

very monotonous steps and demands a lot of attention. The process begins by the Supply NCO

obtaining a copy of the sensitive item list that includes the serial numbers. The Supply NCO, the

Commander, one other key leader, and many helpers go into the unit vault to begin the

inventory. The helper reads aloud the serial number on the sensitive item and the Commander

and other key leader search for the serial number on the list. Once the commander and other key

leader locate the sensitive item’s serial number on the list, the helper validates the serial number

with the list and the helper marks the item “present.” The team then continues on to the next

item. With many units having over 500 sensitive items, the lengthy process consumes a lot of

time (Garner, 2010). Most National Guard units conduct this inventory over drill weekend and

rushed teams create a lot of human error and poor tracking. Guard units desperately need a more

accurate and efficient way to conduct the inventories.

RFID tracking software provides military units with a solution for better inventory

tracking. The RFID technology captures data within seconds and automatically stores it in the

database. Automated data eliminates almost all human error with manual input. The software can

track and maintain the inventoried data for years and provides units with a historical timeline of

sensitive items (Garner, 2010). The durability of RFID systems allows users to read the tags
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more than 100,000 times since many weapons stay with the same unit for years. In conjunction

with the tags, the RFID transponders do not require batteries providing a virtually unlimited

lifespan (Dias & Ringdahl, 2008). Proven RFID systems illustrate the reduction of inventory

time when implemented with new inventory taking processes.

The integration of new RFID systems in units creates the need of new inventory

processes. Installing RFID systems permits units to no longer conduct inventories the old way by

reading aloud the serial numbers and the tedious procedure of looking up the serial number in a

500 item list. This one step in the new process will decrease the time considerably and improve

accuracy tenfold (Garner, 2010). The new process consists of the helper scanning each RFID tag

on every sensitive item and then uploading the data into the software on the computer. The new

process eliminates the tiring, lengthy process of searching for serial numbers. The software

easily pinpoints missing serial numbers immediately and accurately. Commanders and Supply

NCOs gain confidence and trust with the knowledge of knowing the status and location of all

sensitive items. The new process will eliminate numerous man hours and errors along with

frustration within the unit.

RFID technology provides an accurate and efficient solution to conducting monthly,

quarterly, and annual inventories. Units reap the benefit of work hour savings and better auditing

practices. National Guard units benefit the most from the new software if implemented for

inventory purposes, but all military units can benefit from the software’s ability to improve

maintenance control of sensitive items.

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Improving Maintenance Control of Sensitive Items

The number of times a gun fires greatly impacts the lifespan of that gun. In order for

Commanders to track the lifespan and usage of every weapon in their unit, every Soldier would

need to document every shot fired from his or her weapon. In reality, Soldiers cannot complete

this impractical and virtually impossible requirement in field environments, especially during

times of intense combat. Therefore, the Army designed a tracking system by integrating RFID

systems into unit weapons.

In 2006, military units began the implementation of RFID systems to track number of

rounds fired by ground vehicle guns. The system first tested on the MI Abrams Main Battle

Tank, included microelectromechanical sensors (MEMS) integrated with RFID tags to enable the

tank drivers to track the number of times the tank weapon fires (Swedberg, 2006). The driver can

access the weapon-firing count on a tablet PC inside the vehicle. The tablet includes an RFID

reader and the ability to download data to keep a record of the weapon’s firing history. The

software also enables the operator to utilize the downloaded data to produce analyses on the

weapon system regarding the weapons capability of functioning properly (Jackson, 2008). When

the weapon operator prepares the weapon to fire, the RFID reader automatically sends an RF

signal energizing the passive RFID tag, which then transmits an unique RFID number and count

of each time the weapon has been fired (Swedberg, 2006). The system can also record the

physical effects of the type of munitions fired which allows users and operators to maintain an

accurate indication of the health and maintenance requirements of the barrel. Due to the success
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of this prototype with large ground weapons, DOD personnel began research on the

implementation of this unique RFID system for individual weapons.

Individual weapon maintenance concerns many Commanders since Soldiers cannot

possibly track number of rounds fired from individual weapon systems. A new prototype

deployed within the Army may solve the growing concern and improve maintenance control.

RFID systems combined with a piezoelectric sensor placed in the weapon can sense every time

the weapon recoils and a tiny processor records the data. The attached RFID tag enables the

system to communicate the data when scanned (Jackson, 2008). The software also produces

producing complex statistical reports that illustrate the intensity of fire, strain and heat, and the

wear and tear on the weapon (Swedberg, 2006). The software can save and print the reports

whenever desired. The information the reports provide increases the safety and security of the

Soldiers by informing the Commander of the lifespan of the each Soldier’s individual weapon.

The integration of the data with management decision support software could eventually allow

commanders to make decisions regarding the purchase of new weapons.

The unique weapon tracking RFID system paints a more accurate picture for

Commanders in regards to inventory status as well as sensitive item maintenance. For large, tank

weapons, that have a reputation of improper functioning, the software empowers operators to

make informed decisions based on statistical activity and accuracy analyses. This information

could lead to the decision not to shoot and to pull back out of the fight because statistically, the

current level of the weapon predicts an increased risk of weapon malfunction. Another example
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for individual Soldier weapons allows the information to save lives by allowing the Commander

to purchase new weapons and the disposal of weapons with a high risk of malfunction.

Availability of this information reduces concerns of the Commander at every level by knowing

each Soldier’s weapons’ lifespan. However, many Commanders have various other concerns

regarding the implementation of RFID systems within military units.

Concerns Generated by the Implementation of RFID Systems

Apprehensive attitudes and behaviors come with changes and the integration of new

technology. Military leaders worry about the security and availability of classified information.

Many also fear the increased accessibility of information via the internet creates loose command

and control over valuable information. The harsh and unforgiving current combat environment

generates concern with the durability of technological hardware on the battle field. Many leaders

do not want to depend on new and untested technologies due to fear of failure during missions.

Also, budgets costs continue to cut deep and many units do not want to spend valuable resources

on new technology that may not work or dates itself within a few years. The implementation of

new RFID systems creates all of these concerns for Commanders and military units. However,

many civilian companies and the DOD understand these concerns and work to provide worry-

free RFID systems to all units.

The ability of enemy forces to hack into RFID systems and gain sensitive item

information concern many Commanders. Unit leaders do not want the enemy to know the

function capabilities of ground weapons or the lifespan of an individual’s weapon but many fear
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enemy hackers will target new RFID technology for this information. However, with low-

frequency RFID systems, enemy forces could not obtain valuable data due to shorter and safer

read ranges (Garner, 2010). Low-frequency RFID systems require close proximity of the enemy

to the sensitive item in order for the enemy to gain any information. In fact, sensitive items with

low-frequency RFID tags require reads to take place within a few feet. Combat areas with

highly regulated and maintained security measures provide no means for an enemy to get within

feet of any sensitive item. On the contrary, units using high-frequency RFID systems possess a

higher risk. The enemy could stand outside the base perimeter, point and shoot his RFID reader

in the direction of the item and obtain a read. However, high-frequency RFID systems only work

about 60% of time from long ranges (Jackson, 2008). Most military units using RFID systems

only implement low-frequency RFID systems due to this security risk.

The longevity of RFID systems in harsh and rough environments produces another

concern for many commanders. Many units hesitate to invest in systems unless tested

extensively in popular deployed areas. However, many companies understand the military’s

concern regarding environmental conditions and longevity, so many put the tags to the test. Most

companies advertise that the RFID tags can read through fresh and salt water, paint, dust, oil and

grease (“SkyRFID,” 2011). Others confirm that RFID tags can withstand high temperatures,

high pressures, toxic and corrosive chemicals (Garner, 2010). Scarlett et al. (2006) confirm that

most tags tested and designed can handle dust, vibration, show and weapon cleaning solvents.

Due to such a competitive market and floating DOD contracts awaiting the best price, many
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companies find competitive advantages to gain the attention of military buyers. Many sellers

struggle to balance improved quality and longevity with low prices; important aspects sought

after by many DOD contracts.

Increasing budget cuts in units concern Commanders with the affordability of

implementing an RFID system. Highly competitive markets for RFID systems continue to drop

the price of the technology for many years now (Robinson, 2009). Garner (2010) reports that

low-frequency RFID transponders cost around $1-$3. He also states the passive RFID tags cost

only pennies apiece. However, active tags cost a bit more at approximately $52; a decrease in

price from $75 (Robinson, 2009). Cost constraints force companies to steer toward more

creative uses of the RFID applications to allow more bang for the buck for investing units. With

many options to choose from, it is difficult for units to decide which option is the best.

Commanders must recognize what goals the implementation of a RFID system should

accomplish in order to choose the right product for the unit.

Garner (2010) recommends the passive low-frequency RFID the best solution for

Commanders for many reasons. The passive low-frequency RFID fulfills all necessary criteria as

a suitable ID system for tracking sensitive items. Garner (2010) states that this proven system

passes the most difficult tests and will continue to remain the optimum choice to identify, track,

and maintain military weapons and all other sensitive items for the next ten years or longer.

Easy installation and limited maintenance of the system requires only minor changes to existing

infrastructures. The passive, low-frequency RFID transponders do not require batteries and with
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very few needed parts, the system maintains an unlimited lifespan. Regulatory compliance with

the MIL-STD-810F allows the system to pass all durability testing. Garner (2010) reports the

system as the best economical solution due to the low price tag.

Even though many concerned units never experience the benefits of RFID systems, a few

units actually do experience a number of benefits. Units that use RFID systems to help track and

manage expendable sensitive items such as munitions and explosives report that both the

supplier and the units see benefits. Suppliers benefit from improved planning, faster demand

responses, improved efficiency in the recall of defective explosives, increased ability to ensure

that ammunitions remain stocked on DOD’s shelves, faster receipt of payments for supplied

goods, and streamlined business processes are just a few reported benefits (“RFID,” 2010).

Benefits on the DOD side include improved inventory management, improved labor

productivity, elimination of duplicate orders, replacement of manual procedures, automated

receipt and acceptance, improved inventory and shipment visibility and management, enhanced

business processes within the DOD, and improved asset tracking for munitions (“RFID,” 2010).

On the other hand, these reports came from units not utilizing the RFID system to track non-

expendable sensitive items. Enabling the RFID system to track critical items remains costly and

timely.

Due to growing concerns and decreasing budgets, many units stall the implementation of

new RFID technology. However, many Commanders test the cost comparison and find the

benefits outweigh the costs immensely and begin implementation immediately. As with most
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new technology, users encounter flaws during the implementation stage, but only the brave push

through the obstacles and reap the benefits. Software engineers tested and continue to test the

RFID systems to eliminate all flaws and ongoing concerns of unit Commanders in order to

ensure full confidence from all units.

Conclusion

Integrating RFID systems challenge units but many see the importance in the

improvement of creating a more accurate and efficient process of tracking sensitive items and

maintenance control. Undoubtedly, many bumps occur during the integration of the new

systems, but the benefits units reap will succumb to any and all doubt. New RFID systems

provide units with a more accurate and efficient process of issuing and turning-in of sensitive

items and enables Supply NCOs to maintain better command and control of the process. New

RFID technologies enhance the unit’s physical security by precise tracking of individual

weapons and a more accurate picture for Commanders of critical assets on the battle field or in a

training environment. The RFID software enables units to conduct more accurate and precise

inventories of sensitive items for mandated monthly, quarterly, and annual inspections. The

RFID system allows Commanders and units to better maintain the lifespan of weapons and

provides statistical data regarding the weapons’ function abilities. Lastly, the passive, low-

frequency RFID system eliminates many of the Commander’s concerns regarding the

implementation of the new system, affordability, durability, enemy accessibility and longevity.

The fact that RFID systems do not work well around a lot of metal creates the main barrier
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holding back the implementation of RFID systems to track sensitive items (Robinson, 2008).

Oak Ridge National Laboratory began research into finding a solution for this problem and

produced a RFID system using a different kind of wireless technology that can withstand metals,

liquids and electromagnetic noise (Robinson, 2008). The newly researched technology provides

part of the tangible benefit of the weapons supply chain and creates a direct advantage to the war

fighter. The comprehensive RFID technology approaches that the military continues to take can

only result in an even more transparent and efficient means of supply to support the war fighter

during combat.

Looking forward, the military plans to utilize RFID technologies for a broad range of

military applications. Robinson (2008) reports military installations plan to use a real-time

location system that employs active RFID tags to track over 4,000 pieces of equipment in the

hospital. The future also shows the military using RFID systems to more closely track items used

for repairs at large depots. A pilot test beginning back in 2005 at Tobyhanna Army Depot in

Pennsylvania proved that active RFID technology held the capabilities to cut the number down

on the of days needed for system repairs and eliminated much of the need to reorder lost parts

(“RFID,” 2010). The possibilities and value of the applications of RFID systems prove endless,

however:

The real value of RFID lies not in what it can do today but in what it will do in the future.

DOD is in the midst of the most fundamental transformation of logistics capability ever

attempted, and RFID is an integral element of that transformation. By employing RFID,

DOD is laying a foundation that allows military logisticians to leverage new applications
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that enable them to see and manage the supply chain form end to end and not be limited

by enterprise-centric, stovepipe systems. With RFID, it will be possible to control to

supply chain from factory to foxhole and deliver the right item to the right place at the

right time, even in the face of rapidly evolving conditions in the battle space. (Estevez,

2005, p. 6)
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4f2ac9598f2.html

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