Troops’ translator device unveiled

A TRANSLATION device worn like a wristwatch is being proposed to help British soldiers overcome language barriers and ease tense situations in Iraq.

Voice recognition-based technology would aid troops and civilians in high-risk and “hot zone” situations by translating buzz phrases such as “Don’t shoot”, “Stay back” and “Help will be here soon”.

The technology — the idea of an Iraqi-born student who fled Baghdad before the war — is still a work-in-progress but research found an enthusiastic response from troops.

Funding and a patent are now needed to produce the equipment, unveiled yesterday at the University of Derby by inventor Amin Ismail.

He came up with the idea with product design senior lecturer Karl Hurn for his final-year project.

Mr Ismail said: “One reason I wanted to undertake this project was because it was my way of thanking British soldiers for their honourable work.

“Secondly, it is to improve the communication between soldiers and Iraqi people in high-risk situations where any misunderstandings might lead to a tragedy.”

Arabic-English translations are proposed but the device could also incorporate other languages, said Mr Ismail.

He met soldiers at the 4th Battalion, The Parachute Regiment, based in Leeds, during his research.

Lieutenant Colonel Ben Baldwin, commanding officer of the 4th Battalion, said: “This innovation will provide an interface with the local population improving the way we communicate, while at the same time enhancing the protection of the civilian community and the soldiers.”