Study shows Social-network GPS systems like the Israeli Waze help identify locations prone to traffic accidents and make driving safer. Photo: Wikimedia Commons.

The Israel Air Force’s Horizon Unit, responsible for the development of encrypted content, is developing ‘Waze’ technology for pilots, similar to the popular app that provides users with real time traffic updates, Israeli daily Walla reported on Wednesday.

The unit is currently working on a series of groundbreaking technologies that have garnered praise from hi tech companies both in Israel and around the world. On Monday, the it was officially recognized by Israel’s Chief of General Staff for its innovative and valuable software, Walla said.

One of the Horizon Unit’s most compelling projects is a software program that sends information right into a fighter plane’s cockpit – in real time. The mass of valuable data then allows the pilot to identify different types of enemy targets and make quick decisions while on the attack.

“We were able to develop a capability based on technology that already exists in the private sector,” says ‘A’, Horizon Unit’s commander. According to him, “These new capabilities have increased the lethality of combat aircraft – one click and he [the fighter pilot] can hit many targets simultaneously. [with this software] The aircraft becomes an integral part of the network. You can call it ‘Waze’ for pilots.”

Other recent technological advances that the IAF’s Horizon Unit has been developing include an upgrade of the control center where decisions about targeted killings are made and a more accurate way to track the location of fallen missiles.