Better data, better decisions

Radiation-detection equipment remains a critical component of modern military operations, and its importance continues to rise. The outstanding threats of attacks on nuclear infrastructure, use of radiological weapons such as dirty bombs and illicit nuclear materials being smuggled across borders, never truly disappeared. They are now more prominent than ever, with current conflicts, remarkably high geopolitical tension and technological advancements bringing new destructive devices to the battlefield and borders. Thus, rapid, reliable and far-reaching radiological detection and identification capabilities are non-negotiable, and essential for staying one step-ahead.

Collaborating with significant government departments such as the UK Home Office and MOD, and the US Departments of Homeland Security, Defense and DARPA, Kromek develops radiological and biological detection and identification solutions that significantly enhance CBRN early warning systems and facilitate rapid, appropriate hazard responses for defence forces. The small form factor, light weight, instant alarms and accurate spectroscopic data of devices such as Kromek’s D3S ID and D5 RIID, deliver extensive operational flexibility to those on the ground and distanced decision-makers. This aids maneuverability, potentially all at range, and supports the protection of military and civilians against CBRN threats, in diverse scenarios.

A robust first-line of defence

Ports, airfields, borders, command posts, crowded spaces (sports stadiums and commercial centers) and key nuclear infrastructure are key targets for the use of radiological and nuclear threats to disrupt operations. To secure these sites and the safety of the people there, instant data is essential to facilitate rapid action. The continuous radiation monitoring capability of the small, wearable D3S ID immediately alerts users to gamma and neutron-emitting radiological hazards in their environment as soon as they arise. The high sensitivity of the device ensures even the lowest levels of radioactivity don't go undetected.

Specific threats also require specific responses. The rapid and discreet delivery of isotope ID to the Kromek ID app on a paired phone enables responders and officials to take appropriate action in response to the specific radiological threat, maximising the safety of entire units and safeguarding critical infrastructure.

The D3S ID in action

At present, a number of dogs equipped with D3S IDs are deployed in Ukraine. The D3S ID detectors supply troops with key early warning capabilities in radiation detection and identification at a distance. The real-time isotope ID and gamma and neutron alerts delivered to the paired phone with Kromek ID allow handlers and their canine companions to respond rapidly to the radiological or nuclear threat at hand and keep themselves safe in high-risk environments.

Reliable secondary adjudications

The medium resolution and high sensitivity of the ruggedised, portable D5 RIID supplies CBRN specialist teams with high-quality adjudication spectra and a more definitive confirmation of which radioisotopes are present.  More informed and timely decisions can be made as a result, even in the most complex and demanding situations. Mixed, weak, shielded and heavily masked sources are all quickly located and accurately identified with clearly defined spectral peaks, reducing the risk of false negatives and ensuring illicit material can be seized with speed and precision. The D5 RIID is built to withstand the harshest environments, meeting British and US DEF-STAN and MIL-STD requirements.

As the world’s smallest and lightest RIID, the D5 RIID supplies the user with a high-quality radiometric performance without adding significant weight to everyday equipment. The critical capabilities of the D5 RIID are reliable and cost-effective in the long-term, with the longevity and stability of the device facilitating a low lifetime operational cost.

High-quality spectra far and wide

Now TAK-compliant, the D5 RIID further expands widespread, real-time situational awareness. The ability to integrate the device into the TAK communications application enables extensive data sharing and allows better-coordinated threat responses in the battlefield as a result.

Send the D5 RIID in first

Functional as a handheld device but also able to be mounted on patrol vehicles, tanks, boats, armored personnel carriers or any UGV model, the D5 RIID further enhances operator safety through remote detection. The Remote Mode of the D5 RIID allows large areas to surveyed and essential spectral data collected in high-risk environments without putting troops in unnecessary danger.

Rapid emergency responses can be initiated and coordinated effectively with the rapid delivery of data from the D5 RIID. Agnostic data is delivered in real-time to the remote operator via a wired or wirelessly connected device, whilst ANSI N42.42 data files can be sent to remote technical authorities for secondary adjudications.

Scaling up emergency responses with networkability

To plan, prepare for, respond to and mitigate radiological and nuclear threats effectively at a large-scale, high-quality data must be widely accessible: to units in the battlefield as well as to national and international command centres. Both the D3S ID and D5 RIID seamlessly integrate into existing alarm networks and communications systems. As a result, widespread protection networks can be established. Data from various specialist detectors from large target areas can be viewed simultaneously by decision-makers, and informed, strategic decisions made in the appropriate timeframe for effective preparation and responses to attacks and better protection of troops, civilians and infrastructure.

Make safety a challenge that can be met on any mission

With established networks of robust radiation detectors with operational flexibility, reliable radiological data is far-reaching and accessible in an instant. Consequently, the situational awareness and decision-making of those either situated remotely or positioned in the battlefield, is significantly elevated. Constant monitoring aids planning and preparation and prioritises preventative action. With the risk of radiological and nuclear threats escalating, such capabilities are paramount for better navigating R&N threats in armed and hybrid conflicts and deploying the appropriate countermeasures to maintain the safety of military and civilian populations.