Security research to focus on stand-off detection.

• Author: Pappalardo, Joe
• Position: SECURITY BEAT: Homeland Defense Briefs - Brief Article

The Department of Homeland Security is releasing a series of requests for technologies that can reveal what vessels are approaching U.S. shores and what they are carrying. The requests illustrate holes in existing port and maritime protection, and what DHS officials envision for the nation's future waterside security, said Coast Guard Cmdr. Joseph Vojvodich, portfolio manger for maritime domain-awareness research.

"It's not enough to collect more data or radar dots," he said.

A particular emphasis needs to be put on standoff-detection devices that can sniff out contraband at more than 50 feet. Tools to identify people and ships also are necessary, including cooperative and uncooperative vessels.

The science and technology directorate at DHS is starting several programs to fill some of these gaps, said Leslee Shumway, DHS' program manager for maritime research and development.

New projects...