Introduction

I was asked to build a POC (Proof-Of-Concept) with the following criteria:

There are teams of individuals (groups of 3-4) scattered across an area (~10KM) for a couple of hours.
The leader should be able to track the positions of these individuals via his mobile app.
However, there is no mobile internet (since there are no cell towers in the area)

Proposed Solution

This can be achieved using 2 apps, named "Scouts" and "Nest".

Scout App
- This app is responsible for sending their locations
- It will offer options to properly check whether their locations are being sent correctly
- Limited Functionality: It is only capable of sending locations - not receiving or viewing other locations. If this phone is compromised, nothing of other scouts will be revealed in the app.
Nest App
- This app is responsible for receiving the locations of all scouts on a map view
- It is only capable of receiving locations from scouts. It will not send information to the scout phones

Other Caveats:

Connectivity: Together, these apps allow a small team using Scout and Nest apps to share and track each other’s locations by using a local wireless network. This does not require an active internet connection. All it needs is a WIFI router with large coverage area.
Battery Drain: Continuous GPS usage will reduce battery life of the device. Powerbanks can be distributed to ensure the phone is switched on for long durations.
Equipment: Android phones are easily available and can be easily purchased. A long-range wireless router will have to be purchased early and some initial setup is required to ensure the android devices connect to the router.

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