Wireless sensor networks are comprised of self-contained sensor nodes which can detect a wide range of anomalies, including light, sound, motion, heat, metal, etc. These anomalies can be analyzed and disseminated real-time to the appropriate entity. Individual nodes can be as small as 1 mm3 and can be deployed by the thousands. Once deployed, the smart sensors communicate wirelessly to set up ad hoc networks which can then be accessed by a plethora of communications devices, including PDAs carried by combatants in the field. Consequently, warriors can wield “fine grain” knowledge of environments previously difficult if not impossible to monitor.