.atak — Android Team Awareness Kit
MITRE Corporation · 2011
ATAK (.atak) files are logs from the Android Team Awareness Kit, used for real-time mapping, collaboration, and situational awareness by tactical teams.
Key Features
- Real-time location sharing and tracking
- Collaborative mapping and data annotation
- Secure communication and messaging
- Geospatial data logging and replay
Best For
- Situational awareness in dynamic environments
- Team coordination and collaboration
- Tracking and logging of geospatial events
- Field data collection and sharing
Less Ideal For
- General document storage
- High-resolution image or video archiving
- Web content or application development
- 3D model design or rendering
Common Use Cases
- Emergency response coordination
- Military and law enforcement operations
- Search and rescue missions
- Wildland firefighting
- Outdoor recreation and navigation
How to Open It
- Install the ATAK application on an Android device.
- Import the .atak log file directly through the ATAK application's import function.
- Alternatively, some desktop viewers or GIS software might support parsing these XML-based logs, though direct import into ATAK is the primary method.
What is a .atak file?
ATAK (Android Team Awareness Kit) is a powerful open-source mapping application designed for tactical and situational awareness. It allows users to share their location, collaborate on maps, and communicate in real-time, making it invaluable for first responders, military personnel, and outdoor enthusiasts. The platform enables the creation and exchange of data, such as points of interest, routes, and geofenced areas, facilitating efficient coordination and decision-making in dynamic environments. Its flexibility and customizability also make it adaptable to a wide range of operational needs. ATRAK leverages existing infrastructure to provide robust communication capabilities.
Programs That Open .atak Files
| Platform | Program | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Android | ATAK | Free | Official |
How to Convert .atak Files
| Format | Method |
|---|---|
| .KML | ATAK application export, Custom scripts |
| .GPX | ATAK application export, Custom scripts |
Common Problems with .atak Files
Frequently Asked Questions
ATAK is primarily used for real-time tactical mapping, situational awareness, and collaborative operations, especially by military, first responders, and public safety agencies.
While ATAK is an Android application, the underlying XML data in .atak files can potentially be parsed by desktop GIS software or custom scripts. However, direct import into ATAK on Android is the intended and most comprehensive way to view them.
No, while .atak files can be exported to KML or GPX, they contain more extensive real-time operational data specific to the ATAK platform, including communication logs and detailed mission metadata.
Technical Details
ATAK log files are typically XML-based, containing detailed geospatial data, communication logs, and metadata related to a specific mission or operation. They record user movements, generated objects, and command messages, often using a CoT (Cursor-on-Target) data model for interoperability. The format is designed for efficient data exchange and replayability of events.