Diver-based Rapid Response Capability for Maritime-Port Security Operations

Maritime-Port Security Dive Operations cross many geographic boundaries and regional jurisdictions, and are conducted by US Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD), United States Coast Guard (USCG), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and Public Safety Dive Teams (PSDT). They include underwater search of ship hulls, piers, pilings, docks, and bottom berthing areas for improvised explosive devices (IEDs), contraband, mines, and other threats and routinely occur in dark or turbid water in near zero visibility conditions. There is high interest in the development and fielding of technology and training that can decrease the time needed to search an underwater area, increase the probability that threats will be found, and decrease the inherent risk to divers. Technology and training that can be used by multiple agencies military and civilian is essential. In addition, the National Science and Technology Council´s Domestic IED Subcommittee has determined that effective Waterborne IED Detect and Defeat Systems are a National Critical Need, ι The Combating Terrorism Technical Support Office (CTTSO) oversees interagency programs that develop advanced technologies and mission-focused solutions for joint service operators to address current and emerging maritime threats.11 Under the Maritime-Port Security Counterterrorism Initiative Program, the Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City division (NSWC PCD); in partnership with Florida State University-Panama City (FSU-PC) and Sound Metrics Corporation; has developed a Diver-based Rapid Response Capability for search, detection, location, and identification of waterborne threats.