Is the iPod touch and the iPhone a dream for the US Military?

The idea of a networked, connected, location aware solider capable of providing a multitude of rolls depending on the situation has long been the dream of the US military.  Newsweek is reporting that Apple’s iPod touch and iPhone might be making that dream a reality.  The multifunctional nature of the device and the fact that it can network with other devices apparently make it a great platform for military use.  Personally, I’m supremely impressed it’s rugged enough (with a case) for military use.  A quick search on Craigslist or ebay will show you a number of people who clearly HAVEN’T found this to be the case.  All in all, it’s a pretty interesting read and a good case study on the importance of multifunction devices that are locationaly aware.