[dsl]

Android is going to be the low cost field deployable random gadget, and this is an investment in bringing a minimum level of security to the platform.

For actual classified applications, the NSA (which provides solutions downstream to DoD and other groups) is already trying to standardize on a highly customized version of Windows CE built by General Dynamics that runs on XScale processors with NSA specific modifications. Some publicly visible applications of this stack are the Sectera Edge (the phone that replaced Obamas Blackberry) and the DTD2000.

Windows CE will become the very dominant winner in the mobile platform space because of this. :)

[sliverstorm]

Windows CE? I'm surprised. I always thought the NSA really seemed to be embracing Linux.

[DigitalSea]

I guess the way the Government see the situation is. If they're paying Microsoft to provide them with a service/software with guarantees drafted up into a contract when SHTF the Government can turn it all back on Microsoft and say, "But the contracted stated you would be providing a secure platform..." You'd be surprised how popular Windows CE actually is. I've seen it used a lot on touchscreen kiosks here in Australia.

[sliverstorm]

Well, I certainly hope of all our governmental organizations the NSA is going to be the least inclined to satisfy themselves with "passing the blame to the supplier when security is inevitably compromised"

[orangethirty]

Yes, its used in single board applications like the mini2440. Though android 2.3 is quickly gaining popularity due to how simple it is to adapt and run.