Training - ATAK Functions
Below are a list of basic functions team members should train and get reps at performing.
| Function | Description |
|---|---|
| Dropping Pins (Points) | Team members can drop pins on the ATAK map to mark specific locations (e.g., rendezvous points, hazards, or objectives), with coordinates shared over the Meshtastic network to appear on all team members’ maps. |
| Creating and Sharing Routes | Use ATAK’s route tool to create navigation routes (e.g., waypoints for a patrol path) and share them with the team via Meshtastic, allowing synchronized navigation across devices. |
| Drawing Shapes (Polygons/Lines) | Draw tactical shapes, such as perimeters or safe zones, on the ATAK map using the drawing tool, with these graphics transmitted over Meshtastic for team-wide visibility. |
| Sending Chat Messages | Utilize ATAK’s built-in chat feature to send text messages to individual team members or the entire group, with messages relayed through the Meshtastic network for off-grid communication. |
| Sharing GeoFences | Set up GeoFences in ATAK to define areas (e.g., restricted zones) that trigger alerts when crossed, sharing these boundaries with the team over Meshtastic for coordinated awareness. |
| Tracking Team Locations (CoT Markers) | Display Cursor on Target (CoT) markers for each team member’s real-time GPS position on the ATAK map, updated via Meshtastic’s position-sharing capabilities. |
| Importing and Sharing Overlays | Import map overlays (e.g., .kml or .kmz files) into ATAK and share them with the team over Meshtastic, enabling consistent map data like terrain or mission plans. |
| Using the Range and Bearing Tool | Measure distances and directions between points on the ATAK map (e.g., from a pin to a target), with results shareable via Meshtastic for team coordination. |
| Marking and Sharing 9-Line Reports | Create and share 9-line reports (e.g., for medical evacuation or close air support) within ATAK, transmitting the structured data over Meshtastic to ensure critical information reaches the team. |
| Sending Quick Nav Markers | Drop quick navigation markers in ATAK to highlight temporary points of interest (e.g., a discovered obstacle), instantly shared via Meshtastic to update all team members’ maps. |
| Map Layer Management | Teams should learn to switch between map layers (e.g., satellite, topographic, or custom offline .mbtiles) in ATAK’s Map Settings. This allows adaptation to different mission needs, such as terrain analysis or urban navigation, with Meshtastic sharing imported map files across the team. |
| Map Scale and Zoom Control | Adjust the map scale and zoom level to focus on specific areas (e.g., a 100-meter radius for close-quarters operations). Teams can drop pins or draw shapes at precise scales, shared via Meshtastic for synchronized awareness. |
| Bearing Lock and Navigation Aids | Lock the map to a specific bearing or enable north-up orientation for consistent navigation. Teams can share navigation aids like routes or waypoints over Meshtastic to align movement. |
| Team Roles and Icons | Assign and customize CoT (Cursor on Target) icons and roles (e.g., medic, leader, scout) for each team member in ATAK’s settings. These icons appear on the map, shared via Meshtastic, to clarify roles during operations. |
| Bloodhound Tracking | Use the Bloodhound tool to track a specific team member or asset by their CoT marker, with real-time updates over Meshtastic. This is useful for following a scout or locating a lost team member. |
| Collaborative Whiteboarding | Draw freeform sketches or annotations on the ATAK map using the whiteboard feature (e.g., to mark a search grid). These can be shared over Meshtastic to ensure all team members see the same tactical plan. |
| Alert Notifications | Set up and send custom alerts in ATAK (e.g., “enemy spotted” or “regroup”) to notify the team, transmitted via Meshtastic. Alerts can be tied to specific map locations for clarity. |
| Data Package Sharing | Create and share data packages in ATAK, including maps, waypoints, and mission files, which Meshtastic can transmit as small, chunked files. This ensures all team members have critical mission data, even offline. |