Fabula
Object
Object

Global Positioning Device on the MLRS

A tracking device mounted on the Multiple Launch Rocket System loaded aboard the Qumari ship Mastico. This GPS unit transmitted the rocket system's position, allowing U.S. forces to trace it back to the vessel carrying 72 tons of weapons and explosives. Fitzwallace holds it up in the situation room as ironclad proof of Qumar's deception, with the military aide confirming details amid tense reactions from Bartlet, Leo, and Sultan.
2 appearances

Purpose

Transmits real-time location data to track the MLRS and identify the transporting ship.

Significance

Serves as the decisive 'message in a bottle' intelligence that exposes Qumar's arms deal with Bahji militants, forcing Bartlet to order the Sixth Fleet to intercept the Mastico without firing and escalating diplomatic and military tensions.

Appearances in the Narrative

When this object appears and how it's used

2 moments
S4E5 · Debate Camp
Mastico Revealed: Weapons Bound for the Bahji

The GPS device on the MLRS functions narratively as the 'message in a bottle' — the traceable clue that allowed U.S. forces to locate and identify the Mastico, turning suspicion into actionable proof and triggering the presidential order.

Before: Installed on the MLRS and transmitting location data clandestinely as part of the weapons transfer.
After: Retained as evidentiary intelligence; its transmission enabled the interception order and will be used in diplomatic and legal justification.
View full event
S4E5 · Debate Camp
Stop the Mastico — Intercept, Don't Fire

The GPS unit on the MLRS functions narratively as the smoking-gun evidence — 'a message in a bottle' — that allows U.S. forces to locate the Mastico and tie the weapon system to a Qumari transfer.

Before: Attached to the MLRS and actively transmitting location data, undiscovered by public scrutiny until intelligence recovered it.
After: Remains the key piece of admissible intelligence enabling tracking and authorization of the naval intercept; its data drives military movement.
View full event