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Open Source in the Military?
djmcmath asks: "Does anyone have any experience with Open Source Software and/or GPL'd software in military applications? I'm only asking because I'm involved in work on the combat systems for a new submarine, and had considered an Open Source solution. (I apologize, I must be intentionally vague for obvious reasons.) So ignore the obvious questions (Is it really suitable? Are closed-source proprietary options better? Does MS have a good solution?) and skip to the good stuff. What about the fact that my code would be classified Secret under US Code Umptifratz? I cannot distribute my code (and it's changes) without being tried for treason. What happens to the rest of the combat system code when I submit my GPL'd module?" Open Source and the Military: it's a tricky combination of keeping what can be open, open and keeping your secrets...well, secrets! However, open source in the military need not be as high profile as weapons systems. One of the only major OS projects that I'm aware of that had any form of military involvement was GRASS, the open-source GIS system. I'm sure there may be a few others out there. Does anyone know of other OS projects with military association? If there are any projects out there that interface with classified bits, how did you deal with those issues?
I bet Osama Bin Laden is reading this article right now and having orgasms about the possibility of open source military software. LISTEN YOU MORONS: Giving Palistinian terrorists the source code to our missile shield is NOT A GOOD IDEA. Giving Fidel Castro the source code to our spy planes is NOT A GOOD IDEA. Giving Osama the source code to software that controls our nukes is NOT A GOOD IDEA.
Open source isn't always the way to go. And this is one clear example of that. If you disagree with me then you should move to Afghanistan where they have no food or water, no computers, no electricity, no toothbrushes, etc. and see how you like it over there.
OK... this is not a troll... I am being serious here.
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If you can't release your source code, don't use the GPL.
Why? Because a lot of us GPL fans are Buddhist, Pacifist, Hippie types!
Seriously... I don't want you using my software to help kill people.
I spend my free time writing software to help people. Right now I can barely afford to eat but I am happy because I feel that the software I write is going to do some good in the world.
Killing people and creating even more bad karma doesn't fit in with my world view
I have also talked to Stallman about putting a clause in the GPL about not using the GPL in military systems because of these concerns. I don't know if it is possible. What about the Coast Guard? What UN peace keeping troops?
So yes... you can't use GPL code.
... and stop killing people!
Peace!
Kevin
Since your superintelligent president decided to bomb the Taleban to buggery and may or may not have blown O-b-L to bits, you'll never know, will you?
I am really astonished by the arrogance of army to search for open source military apps. As many inventions have been abused - Einstein' s atomic bomb in the world biggest massmurder in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, A. Nobel's dynamite every day, and thousands of others,it is shocking to see attempts to do so again, with another good thing. Open source in its nature carries certain philosophy, ideas that contrast military use. Open source community is INTERNATIONAL, with contributions from people of countries your app could be used against. Be so kind and use your military money which we, unfortunately, give you from our taxes, and work on your sick projects yourself.