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Introducing Garmin tactix: A Tactically-Inspired GPS Navigator and ABC Watch

Garmin Tactix OLATHE, Kan./ October 22, 2013/Business Wire-Garmin International Inc., a unit of Garmin Ltd. (NASDAQ: GRMN), the global leader in satellite navigation, today announced tactix, a rugged high-sensitivity GPS navigator and ABC watch inspired by the requirements of Law Enforcement and Police Special Operations. Built for training, exploring, and more, this field-ready wristwatch boasts an altimeter, barometer, 3-axis compass, and extensive tracking capabilities for precise navigation in the field. tactix is waterproof to 50 meters, and can run up to 50 hours in GPS mode on one charge. It comes preloaded with tide data (U.S. units only) and Jumpmaster software, which could prove invaluable for amphibious and airborne operations. It has a stealth, matte black design with a curved lens and green backlight, so it won't flare out with night vision devices or compromise the user's position. tactix can withstand even the most extreme elements and situations, but is sleek enough to be worn as an everyday timepiece.

"Being able to go hands free while still having access to accurate information on barometric pressure, elevation, and GPS position could prove to be invaluable in the field," said Dan Bartel, Garmin's vice president of worldwide sales. "tactix packs Garmin's trusted navigation technology into a GPS watch that both soldiers and civilians can rely on. Plus, the preloaded tide data and Jumpmaster software, along with its stealth design, really sets tactix apart from other wrist worn GPS devices."

tactix is built to endure the roughest conditions. It combines a strong housing with a forged stainless steel rear case to survive shock and impact, and has a scratch-resistant, curved mineral glass lens that reduces "hot spots" from sun reflections. tactix features a large LCD display with a negative mode liquid crystal display for low light conditions. The black background and green LED backlight won't flare out with night vision devices. The preloaded tide data and Jumpmaster software are important features for both military operations and recreational activities. It has a bold, all-black design (bezel, screen, buttons and straps) that is stealthy, yet stylish. tactix is waterproof to 50 meters, and has a battery life of up to 50 hours in UltraTrac mode, 16 hours in full GPS mode, and five weeks in watch mode. Basic watch functions include alarms, tones, vibration alerts, timer, stopwatch and world clock with the ability to display several time zones, military time, and zulu time at once.

tactix boasts a comprehensive navigational toolset that allows users to plan trips, create routes, record waypoints (up to 1,000) such as rally points, landing zones or potential campsites. Users can record GPS bread crumb trails on the move, can navigate to coordinates, along a track or route, towards waypoints, geocaches or along any other selected bearing. A navigation arrow provides clear directional guidance, and the TracBack® function can guide users back along a previously recorded tracklog. This function provides users peace of mind, knowing that they're never "lost" and can easily find their way back in case of emergency or bad weather conditions. tactix also features a dual-position readout, so users can view their current location in multiple formats, including latitude/longitude and MGRS (military grid reference system) on the display simultaneously, simplifying navigation for professional, search-and-rescue and recreational uses. tactix comes preloaded with a worldwide basemap that displays cities nearby. Using the BaseCamp™ desktop and mobile application, tactix users can easily plan trips and share their adventures with friends and family. tactix is equipped with both ANT+™ capabilities and Bluetooth® to wirelessly share tracks, waypoints, routes, and geocaches with other compatible Garmin devices or smartphones with the BaseCamp mobile app. tactix can also be used as a remote for the new Garmin VIRB action camera.

tactix is equipped with ABC sensors (altimeter, barometer, and compass) to provide users with relevant, real-time information. The built-in altimeter provides elevation data to accurately monitor ascent and descent, and the barometer can be used to predict weather changes by showing short-term trends in air pressure. Users can keep their bearings the with 3-axis electronic compass, no matter if they're moving or not. Using its GPS receiver, tactix can auto-calibrate its ABC sensors and auto set the time based on location. For an extremely accurate temperature reading, not influenced by the wearer's body temperature, tactix can be paired with tempe™, Garmin's external temperature sensor.

tactix provides real-time performance data, such as distance, pace, cadence (sensor sold separately), and calories, helping users keep track of their progress during physical training (PT), or other fitness activities. tactix is compatible with the premium heart rate monitor for heart rate info, and with the speed/cadence sensor for distance, speed and cadence while on a bike. The displayed data fields are fully customizable right from the watch.

The new Garmin tactix will be widely available for purchase in fall 2013 for $449.99. tactix is the latest solution from Garmin's outdoor segment, which focuses on developing technologies and innovations to enhance user's outdoor experiences. Whether it's golfing, hiking, hunting or geocaching, Garmin outdoor devices are becoming essential tools for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels. For more information about Garmin's other outdoor products and services, go to garmin.com/outdoors, garmin.blogs.com and twitter.com/garmin.