Have you ever wondered where the idea for some of your everyday items came from? You might be surprised that many common products are rooted in military research and development.
The transition of military technology to civilian life has given us some of the most indispensable tools we use today. Let’s check out five everyday items that started as military innovations and became integral to civilians.
#1. Global Positioning System (GPS)
You probably use GPS to navigate your daily commute or find new restaurants. But did you know it was originally developed to guide submarine navigation?
The U.S. Department of Defense created GPS in the 1970s, as it wanted a reliable, stable satellite navigation network. The US Government owns it and the Air Force operates it. There are two types of GPS services, the Standard Positioning Service (SPS) and Precise Positioning Service (PPS). PPS is reserved for the US Armed Forces, US Federal agencies, and selected allied armed forces and governments.
On the other hand, SPS is free for everyone to use. The GPS we rely on for driving directions, geocaching, and food delivery would not exist without this military innovation. It’s used in agriculture to optimize crop yields and wildlife conservation to track animal movements.
The GPS became available for civilian use in 1996, and its impact on modern life has been profound. We can now navigate unfamiliar roads by enabling location-based services on our smartphones.
#2. Firefighting Foam (AFFF)
Firefighting foam might not be something you use daily. However, it’s always around you and is crucial for safety in many industries. The U.S. Navy and 3M developed AFFF in the 1960s to combat flammable liquid fires on ships and aircraft carriers.
It is highly effective at quickly spreading over the surface of burning liquids and cooling the fire. This foam has become a standard in military and civilian firefighting, particularly in high-risk areas like airports and refineries. Moreover, it has also become commonplace in industrial use due to its effectiveness. However, TorHoerman Law warns that AFFF exposure has raised various health concerns.
In addition, there are also concerns about its environmental impact. The chemicals in AFFF, known as PFAS, can persist in the environment and potentially harm human health. Over 100,000 veterans, industrial workers, and families living near industrial plants have been affected.
The ongoing PFAS litigation is on course to become the biggest lawsuit in the history of America. Thousands of veterans are filing VA claims for exposure to AFFF, seeking compensation and support for related health issues. Researchers are now working on safer alternatives to protect firefighters and the environment.
#3. Aerosol Bug Spray
During World War II, the U.S. Army developed DEET, the active ingredient in most bug sprays. They needed to protect soldiers from insect-borne diseases in tropical areas. The U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. military collaborated to create an effective insect repellent.
DEET was first tested as a pesticide on farm fields, and later as a personal insect repellent by the U.S. Army in 1946. It became available for civilian use in 1957. DEET remains one of the most effective bug sprays, protecting against mosquitoes and ticks. Interestingly, DEET doesn’t kill insects. It’s just that mosquitoes hate its smell.
This creation has significantly reduced the risk of diseases like malaria and dengue fever, making it a staple for military personnel and civilians.
#4. Duct Tape
Duct tape is the ultimate fix-it tool, but its origins are in military logistics. During World War II, the U.S. military needed a strong, waterproof tape to seal ammunition cases. The solution came from an Illinois mom named Vesta Stoudt.
Vesta wrote to President Franklin D. Roosevelt detailing the issue and her solution, along with illustrations. The president was so smitten that he approved the idea and pressed the Industrial Tape Corporation to develop the product. Johnson & Johnson reveals that the military used to call this tape the 100-mile-per-hour tape for its ability to fix anything.
After the war, the tape found new uses in the construction industry, particularly for sealing heating and air conditioning ducts. This led to its current name, “duct tape.” Today, it’s used for everything from quick repairs to crafting projects.
#5. EpiPen
The EpiPen, a lifesaving device for those with severe allergies, has its roots in military technology. Developed for soldiers to protect against chemical warfare agents, the auto-injector was designed for quick and easy administration of medication.
This technology transitioned to civilian use to deliver epinephrine swiftly during severe allergic reactions. Then known as the ComboPen, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) renamed it EpiPen in 1987. Over a million Americans have an epinephrine prescription. Its ease of use and rapid action have made it essential in many households and schools.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What Are Some Other Everyday Items Invented by the Military?
The military has given us many everyday items beyond those mentioned. These include microwave ovens, developed from radar technology; aviator sunglasses, designed for pilots; and superglue, created for clear gun sights. These inventions show how military innovation continues to shape our daily lives.
Q2. How Does Military Technology Transfer to Civilian Use?
Military tech often reaches civilians through a process called “spin-off.” This happens when companies adapt military inventions for everyday use. Sometimes, it’s intentional technology transfer programs. Other times, it’s accidental discoveries that find civilian applications. Either way, we all benefit from these innovations.
Q3. Are There Any Downsides to Using Former Military Technology in Civilian Life?
While military tech brings many benefits, there can be drawbacks. Privacy concerns with GPS tracking, environmental issues with certain materials, and potential health risks from some chemicals are examples. It’s important to balance the advantages with careful consideration of long-term impacts.
All in all, military innovations have profoundly influenced our daily lives, bringing us tools and technologies that we often take for granted. From GPS and duct tape to the EpiPen and instant coffee, these inventions highlight the significant contributions of military research to civilian life.
Moreover, these products continue to shape our daily lives. As we benefit from these innovations, it’s worth appreciating their origins and the ongoing impact of military innovation on our everyday routines. Next time you use one of these items, remember its surprising origins in military technology.
