DHS invests in handheld radiation detectors

The Domestic Nuclear Detection Office (DNDO) of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced US$113 million in competitive awards to enhance the detection of radiological materials at U.S. ports of entry. Human Portable Radiation Detection Systems (HPRDS) program contracts will be awarded to Ametec AMT of Oak Ridge, Tenn., Science Application International Corporation of San Diego Calif., Sanmina-SCI of Huntsville, Ala., Target Instruments, Inc. of Oak Ridge, Tenn., and Smiths Detection Inc. of Pine Brook, N.J.

“These next generation handheld devices will bring an even faster and more reliable means to detecting and identifying radioactive materials at our ports,” said Vayl S. Oxford, DNDO director.  “They are part of a robust global nuclear detection architecture built for the most consequential threats to the homeland.”

The DNDO anticipates purchasing and deploying roughly 1,000 next generation handheld systems and 200 backpack systems through the HPRDS program. The portable technology will be used primarily by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) for secondary screening of cargo to identify and localize radiological material after a primary alarm has been triggered. The devices may also be suitable for use by U.S. Coast Guard officers who board vessels to conduct security checks prior to arrival at port.