Statement of Gene Aloise, Dir., Natural Resources

Home > Diane Publishing Books >

Combating Nuclear Smuggling: Lessons Learned from DHS Testing of Advanced Radiation Detection Portal Monitors: Testimony Before the Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight, Committee on Science and Technology, U.S. House of Representatives

Our Price: $15.00

By Gene Aloise (au)
Year: 2009
Pages: 19
Binding Paperback

Product Code: 1437918433

Description

Statement of Gene Aloise, Dir., Natural Resources and Environment, GAO. The Dept. of Homeland Security's (DHS) Domestic Nuclear Detection Office (DNDO) is responsible for addressing the threat of nuclear smuggling. Radiation detection portal monitors are key elements in the nation's defenses against such threats. DHS has sponsored testing to develop new monitors, known as advanced spectroscopic portal (ASP) monitors, to replace radiation detection equipment being used at ports of entry. DNDO expects that ASPs may offer improvements over current-generation portal monitors, particularly the potential to identify as well as detect radioactive material and thereby to reduce both the risk of missed threats and the rate of innocent alarms, which DNDO considers to be key limitations of radiation detection equipment currently used by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at U.S. ports of entry. However, ASPs cost significantly more than current generation portal monitors. Due to concerns about ASPs' cost and performance, Congress has required that the Sec. of Homeland Security certify that ASPs provide a significant increase in operational effectiveness before obligating funds for full-scale ASP procurement. This testimony addresses (1) GAO findings on DNDO's latest round of ASP testing, and (2) lessons from ASP testing that can be applied to other DHS technology investments. These findings are based on GAO's May 2009 report and other related reports.

Share your knowledge of this product with other customers... Be the first to write a review