SubscribeExplosive Detectors Enhanced to Protect Large-Scale U.S. Ports and Vessels.
ICx Technologies has been selected by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to adapt its ultra-sensitive Fido® Explosives Detector to provide high-volume sampling capabilities suitable for Maritime Safety and Security Team (MSST) operations.
Through the Homeland Security Advanced Research Projects Agency (HSARPA), DHS is currently sponsoring the Rapid Technology Application Program (RTAP) to meet the needs of emergency responders and internal DHS customers. ICx will receive $1 million for the rapid enhancements of current ICx explosives detection systems through this program.
MSST operations require wide-area explosives detection capabilities that are not conducive to a checkpoint scenario. Due to this and other complexities of maritime environments, many approaches to Explosives Detection, such as the use of canines and technologies like ion mobility spectroscopy (IMS), are not well suited for use by MSSTs.
For these reasons, a primary objective of RTAP is the development of a small, rugged, portable device that is capable of accomplishing explosives trace detection on assorted vessels and within facilities in maritime environments.
Through the RTAP project, ICx will modify the Fido sensor to provide a new low-cost, easy-to-use capability for the detection of explosives on fishing boats, container vessels, pleasure boats and other watercraft. These vessels and their dockside facilities are particularly challenging for today's trace detection equipment due to the large area to be swept in a short amount of time, as well as the environmental challenges that can be encountered.
The modified Fido sensor will provide high-volume sampling capabilities specific to maritime applications. Prototype systems will be tested by DHS to ensure that the goals of the project meet the stated detection requirements. Successful completion under this testing program will signal the transition of the system into a commercial product to support the needs of those served by DHS.
"One of the most difficult tasks for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security forces is the balance between security and industry needs," said Hans Kobler, CEO of ICx Technologies. "ICx Technologies is committed to the development and deployment of innovative detection devices that provide accurate, rapid responses without inhibiting the pace of commerce."
The Fido XT detects explosive materials and related vapors in a user-friendly, handheld device weighing less than three pounds. Utilizing ultra-sensitive vapor detection technology, the Fido has performance capabilities comparable to that of highly trained bomb sniffing dogs.
"Our mission is to put laboratory caliber technology into the hands of the men and women on the front line," said Kobler. "We strive to make our sensors, more sensitive and selective, while still being affordable and easy to use. This award will help further drive us in this direction."
Fido is currently in service with the US military in the fight against improvised explosive devices and vehicle-borne IEDS at home and abroad.
WASHINGTON, D.C. - November 7, 2006
