Trace explosive detection for enhanced public security

When explosives are used to carry out a terrorist attack, there is a series of planning, procuring, and assembling that requires explosives to be transported and deployed. People who transport and contact these explosives become contaminated with trace amounts of the material which can be detected using mobile, sensitive devices deployed throughout the security landscape. Recent terrorist events in Paris, Belgium, San Bernardino and Manchester highlight the importance of improved vigilance and consistent, preemptive security measures aimed at disrupting these events before they occur.

On-site detection, particularly at fixed sites, requires tools such as x-ray to detect immediate threats, while on-the-ground intelligence gathering requires a variety of portable, precision tools. A single solution however does not exist, and a more comprehensive suite of tools is now available to counter the quickly evolving threat of terrorism worldwide.

Aviation Security is an example where fixed site threat detection is used to protect a single high-value target. However, historical data shows that the transportation sector makes up less than 3 percent of terrorist attacks (GTD). This indicates the need for mobile and versatile solutions that can be deployed to provide a new level of security in areas not covered by fixed-site detectors.

Reactive security measures typically increase after a terrorist attack, to prevent immediate secondary threats. FLIR Fido X-series products can be deployed consistently across a wide range of operational environments to pro-actively detect explosive threats. Less predictable, strategic deployment across a wide range of public venues, increases the likelihood of catching someone with nefarious intent and serves as a strong deterrent to anyone rehearsing an attack.

Over the past decade FLIR has developed and produced technologies for detection of trace explosives. TrueTrace is a multiplexed detection approach that combines fluorescence and chemiluminescence technologies. Some examples of detectable threats include PETN (Det Cord, Semtex), RDX (C4), TNT, Ammonium Nitrate, ANFO, Urea Nitrate, TATP, Black Powder, Smokeless Powder, Nitroglycerin, EGDN, and HMTD. Advanced signal processing algorithms are used to identify threats and eliminate false alarms.

In addition to portability and sensitivity, usability is critical. Trace detection equipment can go unused, due to complexity or lack of training. For many operators, trace detection is not a primary responsibility, resulting in a lack of familiarity with the equipment. FLIR has focused on developing simple user interfaces where basic training content is delivered on the device and threat information is easily interpreted through visual, audio or haptic feedback.

Finally, cost is an important consideration when deploying ETD systems. Security and Law Enforcement agencies require equipment that fits within the budget of their diverse operational requirements. FLIR’s modern ETD systems are affordable, smaller, lighter, faster, and easier to use than ever. Larger security teams are now able to deploy multiple ETDs and for smaller teams. ETDs are now attainable. This effectively places detection equipment in more positions across the security landscape and increases the chance that terrorist threats are detected and disrupted before being executed.