Recently, the Domestic Nuclear Detection Office (DNDO) awarded a multimillion dollar contract that will equip U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) frontline personnel with a new capability to detect and interdict radiological or nuclear threats.
The award is for small, wearable radiation detector devices that passively monitor the environment and alert the user when nuclear or other radioactive material is present. Known as the Human Portable Tripwire (HPT), this device has the capability to identify the source of radiation and allow personnel to take appropriate action. The technology can also locate the source of the detected radiation and includes communication features that allow the user to easily seek additional technical assistance from experts if needed. These devices are a critical tool for personnel who operate in the maritime environment, at land and sea ports of entry, and within the United States.
The Human Portable Tripwire award represents a successful collaboration between CBP, USCG, TSA, and DNDO to award one contract that meets the needs of multiple DHS components.
This is also an example of the accomplishments we can achieve under the Unity of Effort initiative. From the beginning DNDO worked closely with CBP, USCG, and TSA from the proposal evaluation stage, through the testing and evaluation, to deployment planning. Such collaborative efforts strengthen our homeland security and increase the Department’s ability to thwart potential radiological or nuclear threats.
A Department of Homeland Security official uses the Human Portable Tripwire device to scan for radiological and nuclear threats. (Photo credit: Transportation Security Administration Office of Law Enforcement Visible Intermodal Prevention and Response Program)