A rapidly deployable portable lighting system includes a low voltage rechargeable power source, lights, and a wiring harness configured for being coupled to the lights with quick-release connectors. Each light includes a housing, LEDs receiving power from the power source and transmitting light of at least two colors, and a power port for connecting to the wiring harness. A controller is configured to selectively switch individual LEDs on and off, independently of one another, to control illumination. A smart case houses the power source and controller integrally therein, and is sized and shaped to receive the lights and wiring harness for storage and transport. The lights and wiring harness may be removed from the case for deployment.