Predator drone: $4.5 million…simple Windows shareware: $26…knowing when the Americans are gonna nuke your sandy butthole: priceless!

Iraqi-based terrorists were able to intercept video from the Predator drones on laptops, using data-leeching software and a small sat dish for a measly $26. You simply scan for the packet IDs and transponder codes, and HEY! Predator TV!  I wonder if any of the wunderkind out of Huachuca could, maybe, encrypt the data.

This is another example of how communications and computer technology is serious threat to the power of nations around the world (and also incredibly liberating to the individual.) I find myself torn on this one. While I really want us to eradicate the bad guys, I have to respect their ingenuity.

It also should give espionage gamers a good idea for the next time their GM throws a RPV at them.  You might not be able to hack the vehicle and take charge, but if it’s signaling the base unit, you should be able to tap the feed.  And maybe they’re not encrypted because there’s an issue at the base unit…how many people have turned off their router security because their laptop won’t link up with their home netowkr and they don’t have time to debug it?

Military missions are often time-sensitive.  Can’t get the drone up fast enough with the encryption on?  Have a team out there that needs cover?  Have a lieutenant that’s worried his FITREP is going to look like crap if you don’t get that bird aloft rightnowsoldier! ?