TACNAV-X: Military Navigation
Tactical NAV & MGRS Grid GPS
$8.99 · In-App Purchases · Designed for iPad
TACNAV-X was created during a combat deployment in Afghanistan to honor U.S. soldiers killed in action. For over 15 years, we've proudly served the military community.
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What's up? This is Jon, the creator of TACNAV-X, an offline tactical navigation platform built for austere and contested environments.
I sincerely appreciate you taking the time to check out the app.
TACNAV-X is dedicated to the 24 Soldiers killed in action during our deployment to Afghanistan in 2010, and to the men and women who continue to serve today.
I'm still here, I'm still listening, and I'm still building.
God bless you,
Jon
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KEY FEATURES:
• Offline mapping capabilities (full app usage with no emission of a cellular signal)
• Purpose-built for the individual Soldier
• WGS-84 standard (MGRS, UTM, BNG, and USNG coordinates)
• A military-quality precision targeting platform
• Tactical drawing mode (useful for mission planning, building overlays, targeting, etc.)
• Waypoint plotting functionality with military graphics (per FM 1-02.2)
• Compass “FastLock” function for capturing quick and precise azimuths
• ‘Go to Grid’ feature for precision planning and targeting
• Snap and save photographs onto the main map to increase situational awareness
• Location, waypoint, and photo-sharing capabilities (via email and text)
• One-button night mode function for low-light situations
• Apple Watch support included for free
BACKGROUND:
Built from the ground up in the rugged mountains of eastern Afghanistan, Tactical NAV (also known as TACNAV-X) was developed by a U.S. Army Field Artillery officer with the vision of crafting a low-cost and highly accurate mobile navigation platform tailored for the U.S. military.
Tactical NAV’s journey began in the Pech and Korengal Valleys of Kunar Province, Afghanistan.
U.S. Army Capt. Jonathan J. Springer, a Field Artilleryman serving as a Fire Support Officer with the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), began developing this tactical navigation platform immediately after the memorial services for Spc. Blair D. Thompson and Spc. Jared C. Plunk, who were killed in action on June 25, 2010.
Despite initial rejections by the Department of Defense, Captain Springer remained steadfast in his mission to continue developing TACNAV-X, even to this day.
He used his life savings to fund and develop TACNAV-X, all with the ultimate hope of saving military lives and helping his fellow service members accomplish their missions at home and abroad.
Tactical NAV officially launched on the App Store on February 14, 2011.
BUILT FOR ACCURACY:
TACNAV-X was extensively field-tested during military operations in Afghanistan and later at Fort Bragg, including comparative testing alongside the AN/PSN-13 Defense Advanced GPS Receiver (DAGR) and other military navigation systems.
MISSION:
Empower military service members with a highly accurate and powerful mobile navigation platform.
VISION:
Assist and support our nation’s service members with their mobile navigational needs and enable them to operate and win in both training and combat environments.
BOTTOM LINE:
Tactical NAV has undergone extensive real-world evaluation alongside Nett Warrior, ATAK, BFT, the DAGR, and other military targeting and navigation systems. During comparative testing, TACNAV-X demonstrated accuracy within 1 meter of a DAGR.
IAPs & SUBSCRIPTIONS:
Currently, offline mapping mode is available as a monthly or yearly subscription, or as a one-time purchase. Drawing mode, previously an in-app purchase, is now included free for all users.
All revenue generated from these features contributes to further development and updates, and a portion of the proceeds are donated to charities that specifically benefit disabled veterans.
IMPORTANT NOTES:
The Department of Defense does not endorse Tactical NAV or TACNAV-X. The app should not replace a government-issued device during life-threatening or combat operations.
SUPPORT:
If you have any questions about the app, please contact Jonathan Springer directly at jon@tacnavx.com.
more We’ve been listening closely to your feedback and are rebuilding Tactical NAV from the ground up for what’s next.
What’s New:
• Updated for iOS 27
• Next-Gen Hardware Support
• Continued Swift Rebuild
• Performance, Maintenance & Fixes
This is just the beginning.
A lot more is underway behind the scenes as we build the next generation of TACNAV-X.
Stay tuned!
Jon
5.0.14 6 Oct
We’ve been listening closely to your feedback and are actively rebuilding TACNAV-X from the ground up for what’s next.
What’s New in This Version:
- Updated for iOS 27
- Next-Gen Hardware Prep
- Swift Core Engine Rebuild
- Maintenance & Fixes
A lot more is underway behind the scenes. Stay tuned!
5.0.13 18 Sept
• Multiple bug fixes
• Various app improvements
• Coding for future updates
• UI & performance refinements
*A Note from Jonathan (Creator of Tactical NAV)*
What’s up, guys. Jon here.
I like to keep things real with you, so I appreciate you taking a moment to read this.
As many of you know, I built this app downrange as a Field Artillery Captain in the Pech and Korengal Valleys of Afghanistan, and I’ve carried that mission with me ever since.
TACNAV-X was born out of my commitment to honor the brothers we lost in 2010 and 2011. For me, this will always be more than software. It is a living tribute to their memory.
They deserve nothing less.
In this update, drawing mode is still completely free. It was previously an in-app purchase, but I don’t want there to be any barrier when you need it most, or for anyone to feel they’re being taken advantage of.
Offline mapping remains available as a one-time purchase or subscription. That support is what allows me to pay my developers, maintain updates, and keep TACNAV alive. Nothing more.
I’ll also be honest with you. I’ve been dealing with some significant health issues lately. Continuing to build and support this app is how I stay grounded and keep going.
Bottom line, I appreciate the prayers, support, and well wishes during this time.
If you have ideas, requests, or just want to reach out, you can always email me directly at jon@tacnavx.com.
Thank you for the trust, the support, and for believing in this app, and in me.
Appreciate you guys!
- Jon
5.0.12 31 May
• Multiple bug fixes
• Various app improvements
• Coding for future updates
• UI & performance refinements
*A Note from Jonathan (Creator of Tactical NAV)*
What’s up, guys. Jon here.
I like to keep things real with you, so I appreciate you taking a moment to read this.
As many of you know, I built this app downrange as a Field Artillery Captain in the Pech and Korengal Valleys of Afghanistan, and I’ve carried that mission with me ever since.
TACNAV-X was born out of my commitment to honor the brothers we lost in 2010 and 2011. For me, this will always be more than software. It is a living tribute to their memory.
They deserve nothing less.
In this update, drawing mode is still completely free. It was previously an in-app purchase, but I don’t want there to be any barrier when you need it most, or for anyone to feel they’re being taken advantage of.
Offline mapping remains available as a one-time purchase or subscription. That support is what allows me to pay my developers, maintain updates, and keep TACNAV alive. Nothing more.
I’ll also be honest with you. I’ve been dealing with some significant health issues lately. Continuing to build and support this app is how I stay grounded and keep going.
Bottom line, I appreciate the prayers, support, and well wishes during this time.
If you have ideas, requests, or just want to reach out, you can always email me directly at jon@tacnavx.com.
Thank you for the trust, the support, and for believing in this app, and in me.
Appreciate you guys!
- Jon
5.0.11 13 Feb
• Updated for iOS 26
• Made drawing mode free
• Multiple app refinements
• Coding for future updates
**A Personal Message from Jonathan**
What’s up, guys — I hope you're all doing well. This is Jon, creator of Tactical NAV (TACNAV‑X).
As many of you know, I built this app downrange as a Captain in the Pech and Korengal Valleys of Afghanistan, and I’ve carried that mission with me ever since.
TACNAV‑X was born out of my commitment to honor the brothers we lost in 2010 and 2011. For me, this will always be more than software — it’s a living tribute to their memory. They deserve nothing less.
I also want to be real with you. Over the past few months, I’ve been undergoing treatment for my TBI. It hasn’t been easy, but continuing to serve through this app is what keeps me going. I know that might sound a little cheesy, but I mean it.
That’s why I’ve made drawing mode free in this latest update. It was previously an in‑app purchase, but I don’t want there to be any barrier when you need it most, or make you feel like I’m taking advantage of you.
Offline mapping mode is still available as a one-time purchase or subscription. And I assure you, this isn’t about making money. It’s simply what’s required to pay my developers, support updates, and keep the app alive.
Bottom line, your feedback shapes everything I do, and there’s a lot more to come.
If you have ideas, requests, or just want to connect, please email me anytime at jon@tacnavx.com.
Thanks again for your continued support — and for believing in the app.
Take care, guys!
– Jon
5.0.10 25/09/2025
• Updated for iOS 26
• Made drawing mode free
• Multiple app refinements
• Coding for future updates
**A Personal Message from Jonathan**
What’s up, guys — I hope you're all doing well. This is Jon, creator of Tactical NAV.
As many of you know, I built this app downrange as a Captain in the Pech and Korengal Valleys of Afghanistan, and I’ve carried that mission with me ever since.
TACNAV-X was born out of my commitment to honor the brothers we lost in 2010–2011. For me, this will always be more than software — it’s a living tribute to their memory. They deserve nothing less.
I also want to be real with you. Over the past few months, I’ve been going through treatments for my TBI and a severe brain injury. It hasn’t been easy, but my faith has kept me moving forward — and the only way I can serve now is by supporting you through this app. If that sounds cheesy, then my bad. I’m just being honest.
That’s why I’ve made drawing mode free with this latest update. It was once an in-app purchase, but I don’t want there to be any barrier when you need it most, or make you feel like I’m taking advantage of you.
Offline mapping mode is still available as a one-time purchase or a subscription, and I assure you, it’s not about making money — it’s simply what’s required to keep paying my developers, supporting updates, and keeping the app alive. Thank you for your understanding and support.
Bottom line, your feedback directly shapes this app, and I promise there’s much more to come. Please continue sharing your thoughts and ideas with me at jon@tacnavx.com — I’ll always do my best to reply as soon as I can.
I want each of you to know that I appreciate your continued support. I truly mean that.
Take care, and stay safe out there!
– Jon
5.0.9 16/09/2025
• Made drawing mode free
• Multiple app refinements
• Bug and stability fixes
• Coding for future updates
**An Updated Personal Message from Jonathan**
What’s up guys — I hope you're all doing well. This is Jon, creator of Tactical NAV.
As many of you know, I built this app downrange as a Captain in the Pech and Korengal Valleys of Afghanistan, and I’ve carried that mission with me ever since.
TACNAV-X was born out of my commitment to honor the brothers we lost in 2010–2011. For me, this will always be more than software — it’s a living tribute to their memory. They deserve nothing less.
I also want to be real with you. Over the past months, I’ve been going through treatments for my TBI and a brain tumor. It hasn’t been easy, but I’ve felt God calling me to keep pushing forward — to serve in the way I can now, by giving back to all of you who put this app to use when it matters most.
That’s why I’ve made drawing mode free with this latest update. It was once an in-app purchase, but I don’t want there to be any barrier when you need it most, or for you to ever feel like I’m taking advantage of you. Honestly, I needed that in-app purchase to help cover ongoing development costs, but this is my way of saying thank you and staying true to the mission that began in combat and continues today.
Offline mapping mode is still available as a purchase or subscription, and I assure you, it’s not about making money — it’s simply what’s required to keep paying my developers, supporting updates, and keeping the app alive. Thank you for your understanding and support.
Bottom line, your feedback directly shapes this app, and I promise there’s much more to come. Please continue sharing your thoughts and ideas with me at jon@tacnavx.com — I’ll always do my best to reply as soon as I can.
I want each of you to know that I truly appreciate your continued support. I sincerely mean that.
Take care, God bless, and stay safe out there!
– Jon
5.0.8 28/08/2025
• Fixed screenshot sharing bug
• Performance optimizations
• Preparing for new features
A Personal Message from Jonathan:
Hey everyone, this is Jonathan here, creator of Tactical NAV.
This app was created out of my commitment to honor the soldiers we lost in Afghanistan during 2010–2011. For me, TACNAV-X isn’t just a force multiplier—it’s a tribute to their memory. They deserve nothing less.
Bottom line, it's very important to me.
Your feedback directly shapes the app and this mission, and I remain committed to providing the best tools possible. I promise there's much more to come.
If you have thoughts, ideas, or suggestions, please reach out directly at jon@tacnavx.com. I'll personally reply—I give you my word.
Thanks for your continued support. I truly couldn't do this without you.
Take care, and stay safe!
– Jon
5.0.7 21/07/2025
• Resolved multiple bugs
• Modernized app internals
• Continued coding new features
Hey everyone, it's Jonathan here, creator of Tactical NAV.
This app was born out of a need to honor the soldiers we lost in Afghanistan in 2010–2011. For me, TACNAV-X is more than just a force multiplier—it’s about keeping their memory alive. They deserve that.
Your feedback keeps shaping this mission. I’m committed to delivering the best tools to support you, and there’s more to come.
If you have thoughts or suggestions, reach out anytime at jon@tacnavx.com. I’ll get back to you personally—I give you my word.
Thank you for your support. This mission belongs to all of us.
Take care, guys!
– Jon
5.0.6 23/05/2025
• Resolved crashes and bugs
• Modernization of app internals
• Continued coding new features
Hey everyone, it's Jonathan, the creator of Tactical NAV.
As I mentioned before, this app was born out of a need to honor my soldiers who were killed in action during our deployment to Afghanistan in 2010-2011.
This app is more than just a force multiplier—it’s my way of honoring their memory. They deserve that.
Your feedback continues to shape TACNAV-X, and I’m committed to delivering the best tools to support your mission. I promise there’s more to come.
If you have any thoughts or suggestions, please reach out to me at jon@tacnavx.com. I’ll respond as soon as possible—I give you my word.
I’m grateful for your continued support—this mission is as much yours as it is mine.
Take care, guys!
- Jon
5.0.5 20/11/2024
• Fixed an overlay importing issue
• Resolved various bugs and crashes
• Continued coding new features
• Speed and stability enhancements
• Refined the Apple Watch app
Hey everyone, it's Jonathan, the creator of Tactical NAV.
As I mentioned before, this app was born out of a need to honor my soldiers who were killed in action during our deployment to Afghanistan in 2010-2011.
It’s more than just an app to me—it’s my way of keeping their memory alive and ensuring their sacrifice continues to have meaning.
Your feedback has been crucial in shaping TACNAV-X, and I’m committed to delivering the best tools to support your mission. I promise there’s a lot more to come.
If you have any thoughts or suggestions, please reach out to me at jon@tacnavx.com. I’ll respond as soon as possible.
Take care, guys. Stay safe out there!
- Jon
5.0.4 28/10/2024
• Fixed offline mapping purchase bug
• Added real-time weather updates
• Resolved various bugs and crashes
• Continued coding new features
• Updated the Apple Watch app
• Launched the TACNAV-X platform
Hey everyone, it's Jonathan, the creator of Tactical NAV.
This app was born out of a need to honor my soldiers who were killed in action during our deployment to Afghanistan in 2010-2011.
It’s more than just an app to me—it's a tribute to their sacrifice.
Thank you for your feedback, which drives its evolution. I’m committed to providing the best tools for your mission, with more features on the way.
If you have any thoughts or suggestions, please reach out to me at jon@tacnavx.com. I’ll respond as soon as possible.
Your support means the world to me, and I truly mean that.
Take care, guys. Stay safe out there!
- Jon
5.0.3 04/09/2024
• Launched the First-Gen Apple Watch app
• Integrated real-time weather updates
• Implemented key app improvements
• Fixed various bugs and crashes
• Continued development of new features
• Released the TACNAV-X platform
• Stay tuned for more classified features
Hey everyone, it's Jonathan, the creator of Tactical NAV.
This app was born out of a need to honor my soldiers who gave their lives during our deployment to Afghanistan in 2010-2011.
It’s more than just an app to me—it's a tribute to their sacrifice.
Your feedback has been the driving force behind its evolution, so thank you for that.
I'm committed to bringing you the best tools for your mission, and there's more on the way.
If you have any thoughts or suggestions, please reach out to me at jon@tacnavx.com. I promise to respond as soon as I can.
Your support means the world to me, and I truly mean that.
Take care, guys. Stay safe out there!
- Jon
5.0.2 03/09/2024
Welcome to the TACNAV-X Platform!
• Introduced the First-Gen Apple Watch app
• Integrated real-time weather information
• Implemented numerous app improvements
• Resolved various bugs and crashes
• Ongoing development for new features
• Launched the TACNAV-X platform
• More classified features coming soon
Hey everyone, this is Jonathan, the creator of Tactical NAV.
As some of you know, I created this app in honor of the soldiers who were killed in action during our deployment to Afghanistan in 2010-2011. I hope you find it useful.
I just wanted to let you know that I'm working as best as possible behind the scenes to update the app and improve things based on your feedback. Your input has been invaluable, so thank you.
We're developing exciting new features to enhance your mission capabilities, and I promise more is coming.
If you ever have additional feedback for me and the dev team, just hit me up anytime at jon@tacnavx.com, and I'll get back to you as soon as I can.
I appreciate you all, and take care!
- Jon
PS: Thank you for being a part of the Tactical NAV and TACNAV-X community!
5.0.1 16/08/2024
Welcome to the TACNAV-X Platform!
• Introduced First-Gen Apple Watch app
• Integrated real-time weather information
• Implemented numerous app improvements
• Resolved various bugs and crashes
• Ongoing development for new features
• Launched the TACNAV-X platform
• More classified features coming soon
Hey everyone, this is Jonathan, the creator of Tactical NAV.
I just wanted to let you know that I'm working as best as possible behind the scenes to update the app and improve things based on your feedback. Your input has been invaluable, so thank you.
We're working on exciting new features that will enhance your mission capabilities, I promise.
If you ever have additional feedback for me and the dev team, just hit me up anytime at jon@tacnavx.com, and I'll get back to you as soon as I can.
I appreciate you all, and take care!
- Jon
PS: Thank you for being a part of the Tactical NAV and TACNAV-X community!
5.0.0 07/08/2024
Tactical NAV just leveled up!
• Navigation Mode refinements
• Landscape Mode improvements
• Enhanced Drawing Mode with new updates
• Various bug fixes and app improvements
• Improved Camera Mode for enhanced accuracy
• Stability enhancements for smoother performance
• Backend coding for upcoming features
• Ongoing development for future updates
• Preparation for several classified features coming soon
4.2.2 15/05/2024
This Tactical NAV update brings both immediate improvements and exciting new capabilities. Now, users can work with decimal degrees for more precise location tracking, enjoy a smoother interface, and look forward to advanced mission planning tools, expanded mapping options, and even classified features!
• Improved Camera Mode Functionality: Added crosshairs to camera mode, allowing users to easily target and sight in on objects for improved photo capture accuracy and precision.
• Enhanced Usability with Decimal Degrees: Introduced decimal degrees, improving usability for law enforcement personnel and others by enabling more accurate location tracking and coordination.
• Improved UI/UX: Implemented multiple UI/UX enhancements to elevate overall user experience and functionality.
• Backend Infrastructure Preparation: Prepared backend infrastructure for upcoming features, laying the groundwork for future enhancements.
• Continued Commitment to Excellence: Ongoing development for future updates includes incorporating new features and improvements based on user feedback, demonstrating our commitment to excellence in navigation solutions.
COMING SOON:
• Tactical Mission Graphics and Task Plotting: Introducing tactical mission graphics and task plotting capabilities for more detailed mission planning and enhanced overlay building.
• Expanded Mapping Options: Integration of additional mapping options to broaden the range of available imagery sources, thereby enhancing navigation experiences.
• Advanced Drawing Tools: The addition of the 'Area Draw' feature empowers users to create artillery Safety Ts, AORs, and NFAs with precision. Users can also draw shapes to facilitate mission planning and execution.
• Classified Features: Stay tuned for several more classified features that will further enhance navigation capabilities and introduce new functionalities to meet our users' evolving needs.
4.2.1 08/05/2024
• Added the ability to permanently unlock offline maps, providing users with uninterrupted access to critical navigation data even in remote areas without internet connectivity.
• Resolved multiple bugs that caused crashes related to overlays, ensuring a smoother and more reliable user experience during navigation and mission planning.
• Enhanced system stability, addressing specific performance issues to minimize disruptions during critical operations.
• Prepared backend infrastructure for upcoming features, laying the groundwork for future enhancements.
• Continued development for future updates, incorporating new features and improvements based on user feedback, reaffirming our commitment to excellence in navigation solutions.
COMING SOON:
• Tactical mission graphics and task plotting capabilities, enabling more detailed mission planning and enhanced overlay building.
• Integration of additional mapping options to expand the range of available imagery sources, improving navigation experiences.
• Several more classified features that will further enhance navigation capabilities and introduce new functionalities to meet the evolving needs of our users.
4.2.0 21/04/2024
• Added the ability to permanently unlock offline maps, providing users with uninterrupted access to critical navigation data even in remote areas without internet connectivity.
• Resolved multiple bugs that caused crashes related to overlays, ensuring a smoother and more reliable user experience during navigation and mission planning.
• Enhanced system stability, addressing specific performance issues to minimize disruptions during critical operations.
• Prepared backend infrastructure for upcoming features, laying the groundwork for future enhancements.
• Continued development for future updates, incorporating new features and improvements based on user feedback, reaffirming our commitment to excellence in navigation solutions.
COMING SOON:
• Tactical mission graphics and task plotting capabilities, enabling more detailed mission planning and enhanced overlay building.
• Integration of additional mapping options to expand the range of available imagery sources, improving navigation experiences.
• Several more classified features that will further enhance navigation capabilities and introduce new functionalities to meet the evolving needs of our users.
4.1.20 18/04/2024
• Added the ability to unlock offline maps for life.
• Stability enhancements for a smoother experience.
• Backend preparation for upcoming new features.
• Continued development for future updates.
4.1.10 13/04/2024
• Landscape mode improvements for better usability.
• Performance optimizations for faster app responsiveness.
• Stability enhancements for a smoother experience.
• Backend preparation for upcoming new features.
• Continued development for future updates.
4.1.9 26/03/2024
• Overlay sharing refinements.
• Bug fixes and app improvements.
• More coding for future updates.
4.1.8 25/01/2024
• Compatibility Update: Tactical NAV is now fully optimized for iOS 17 and iPadOS 17.
• Improved UI: Enjoy a more intuitive and polished interface with multiple design enhancements.
• Accurate Navigation: Our compass has been refined for smoother navigation.
• Nautical Miles: Measure distances with precision using 'Nautical Miles.'
• Customization Made Easy: Updated settings menu options for effortless customization.
• Faster Performance: We've modernized the app's internals to turbocharge performance.
• Copy Grid Coordinates: Quickly copy grid coordinates from the toolbar and waypoint pop-up.
• Ultra-Precise Navigation: Introducing 'Degrees and Decimal Minutes' (DDM) for pinpoint accuracy.
• Simplified Grid Entry: Enter grid coordinates effortlessly with a single data bar input.
• Enhanced User Experience: Numerous UI/UX improvements for a sleeker, exceptional experience.
• Future-Proofed: More coding for exciting future updates.
4.1.7 10/11/2023
• Updated for iOS 17 and iPadOS 17.
• Numerous compass refinements for smoother navigation.
• Integrated 'Nautical Miles' for enhanced distance measurement.
• Updated settings menu options for better customization and ease of use.
• Continued modernization of app internals to turbocharge app performance.
• Added the ability to 'Copy Grid' in the bottom toolbar and waypoint pop-up.
• Introduced 'Degrees and Decimal Minutes' (DDM) for ultra-precise navigation.
• Simplified grid coordinate input with a single data bar entry in the 'Go to Grid' function.
• Numerous UI/UX improvements for an even sleeker, more exceptional experience.
• More coding for future updates, including highly anticipated, confidential features coming your way. Exciting surprises await!
4.1.6 28/09/2023
• Ruler tool refinements
• Numerous bug and crash fixes
• Additional gridline improvements
• iPad compatibility adjustments
• Modernization of app internals
• More coding for future updates
4.1.5 17/08/2023
We’ve been listening closely to your feedback and are rebuilding Tactical NAV from the ground up for what’s next.
What’s New:
• Updated for iOS 27
• Next-Gen Hardware Support
• Continued Swift Rebuild
• Performance, Maintenance & Fixes
This is just the beginning.
A lot more is underway behind the scenes as we build the next generation of TACNAV-X.
Stay tuned!
Jon
more Version 5.0.14 6 Oct
Data Not Collected The developer does not collect any data from this app.
