Bomb Detection & Countermeasures

This task involves efforts to research and develop bomb-detection and concealed weapons detection technologies in support of the Marine Expeditionary Rifle Squad (MERS). The centerpiece is the continuation of ongoing, promising work in applied research and prototype development. This is an area of critical need to provide the MERS with a small, portable, reliable, and accurate stand-off, bomb-detection capability. Additionally, other promising technologies have emerged from ongoing research by M2 Technologies, Inc. (M2) and Kansas State University (KSU) that would enhance the MERS force protection capabilities. These technologies include stand-off explosive and concealed-weapons detection using thermal image/millimeter-wave radiometry which would characterize and distinguish the inanimate and animate objects.

Stand-Off Bomb Detection Device

The Stand-Off Bomb Detection initiative aims to enable personnel to remotely detect explosive devices such as these.

The stand-off bomb detection device, currently under development by M2 and KSU possesses the capability to rapidly interrogate an object or “target” in a matter of seconds from a distance, and determine whether or not the target is likely to contain conventional explosives, by measuring neutron and/or photon energies. The target can be a portable package (such as a knap-sack or briefcase), a stationary structure (such as a concrete abutment), or a vehicle (such as a car or van).

Luminescent Capsules

Research and development of luminescent capsules provides the Marine Expeditionary Rifle Squad with the capability to monitor an area for reconnaissance, intelligence, and target acquisition using advanced technology. Competing technology, such as glow sticks, do not offer the same flexibility and capabilities of the science behind luminescent capsules. This effort will provide the MERS with the capability to monitor an area for enemy intrusion. Further research and development is needed to produce capsules that can emit at specific wavelengths and lifetimes.

Vehicle Stopping

This project provides the MERS the ability to remotely stop an automobile by non-lethal means. This system is a stand-off system of minimum lethality, but capable of stopping an approaching automobile by the use of an oxygen scavenger or suffocant to decrease the oxygen concentration in proximity to the air induction system. Developing methods for remotely stopping a vehicle by non-lethal means provides the MERS an option for stopping an automobile or light truck while preventing the death of potentially innocent vehicle occupants.