WMD DETECTION
Abstract
The Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) in the Navy Strategic Plan (NSP) has directed that the Navy be able to combat Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) at sea and Maritime domain. This activity addresses the development of key technologies for standoff detection of WMD's and component nuclear materials on ships at sea. The program will develop and demonstrate technology for actively detecting fissile material and other weapons of mass destruction. FY10 to FY11 funding increase represent the ramping up of the program as continuing technological efforts evolve. The testing of the equipment in realistic maritime environments significantly increases the cost of testing. FY11 to FY12 funding decrease is due to the completion of the test exercises and re-aligment of funds for higher priority requirements. The Maritime WMD Detection program in FY11 is moving from limited scale laboratory and field experimentation, into more complex, large scale demonstrations of Special Nuclear Material detection technologies. These tests must be conducted in a representative "Navy unique" maritime environment which include both over-water and in-water applications, and which require the expansion of required safety, environmental protocols simulation and evaluation of passive and active detection approaches. Additionally, severe shortages of helium-3 material required for neutron detection has forced an urgent technology development investment in alternative detection technologies.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Accomplishment
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2012
- Source ID
- ab446e456c3d1a493db1345fee7c7487