---
title: "Subscribers"
description: "CBRNe World provides those tasked with defending against CBRN and IED threats with the essential practical, scientific and political information. Access the current and previous issues of the magazine by registering as a member."
url: "https://cbrneworld.com/news/subscribers?start=325"
date: "2026-07-31T02:04:37+00:00"
language: "en-GB"
---

##  [Forgefx Simulations & Mriglobal Develop An Augmented Reality CBRN Detection Device Training Simulator For US Military](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2894:forgefx-simulations-mriglobal-develop-an-augmented-reality-cbrn-detection-device-training-simulator-for-us-military&catid=12)

 Written by Zoe Rutherford on 02 June 2023.

The U.S. Department of Defense Joint Program Executive Office for Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Defense (jpeo-cbrnd ) has contracted mriglobal and forgefx simulations to develop an augmented reality (AR) CBRN detection device training simulator. The Enhanced Warfighter Augmented Trainer (EWAT), or HoloTrainer, is a training simulator designed specifically for the Joint Project Manager Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear Special Operations Forces (JPM CBRN SOF) to provide first responders and warfighters with the best possible training to identify hazardous materials and situations accurately.

The training simulator program is powered by a Microsoft HoloLens 2, projecting holographic interactive digital twins of physical devices. The application includes guided training lessons for all major functions the device performs, with voice-over-narration and text instruction. Users can learn at their own pace, by doing actual tasks and steps needed to master use of the real-world device. In addition, the HoloTrainer allows users to train with physical devices, seeing holographically projected animations and instructions on the heads-up-display (HUD) in front of them, allowing them to keep their hands on the device at all times. The application also supports networked multi-user connectivity, enabling trainers and trainees to work together remotely as if in the same room.

Starting today, the Teledyne FLIR identiFINDER® R440 will be available for trainees within the application. Teledyne FLIR Defense, makers of the identiFINDER series of field-proven handheld radiation detectors, is one of the device manufacturers working with MRIGlobal and ForgeFX Simulations. The identiFINDER® R440 is a lightweight radionuclide identification device (RID) that delivers highly sensitive detection and fast results. The R440 is available with various advanced detector options to respond to radiological threats from farther away, behind heavier shielding, and with better resolution than similar-sized devices. Operators can train on the familiar three-button interface, common to all Teledyne FLIR hand-held radiation detectors, using the HoloTrainer's virtual and tactile learning combination.

Incorporating Microsoft's Mixed Reality Toolkit for hand-tracking, and taking advantage of the built-in forward-facing HoloLens cameras, users can interact with holographically projected interactive objects using natural, intuitive hand gestures during simulation-based training. The HoloTrainer provides an animated reference device to guide users through actions and expected outcomes. The application can simulate hazardous situations such as lethal doses of radiation and CBRN equipment used to detect it. The simulator includes a collection of lessons that provide training on subjects like Parts Familiarization and Power Up/Down, as well as training on the Finder, EasyFinder, and Identify Modes. In addition, the application offers remote connectivity capabilities through multiuser cloud servers, enabling users to train together in private online sessions, allowing trainers and trainees to collaborate seamlessly as if they were in the same room, even though they may be thousands of miles apart.

"This project represents a groundbreaking approach in delivering cutting-edge training to those performing mission-critical operations," said ForgeFX Simulations CEO, Greg Meyers. "We are proud to partner with MRIGlobal, JPEO-CBRND, and Teledyne FLIR to develop this innovative training simulator, ensuring first responders have state-of-the-art training before facing hazardous situations.”

The AR-based training simulator is set to redefine the way first responders and soldiers are trained, ensuring that they are adequately prepared to handle hazardous materials and situations with confidence. The success of this project represents a major step forward in CBRN training and highlights the importance of collaboration and innovation in developing cutting-edge solutions for complex challenges. By working together, MRIGlobal, ForgeFX Simulations, JPEO-CBRND, and Teledyne FLIR have created an invaluable tool that redefines first responder and soldier training, helping to safeguard lives and enhance security.

       [![](https://cbrneworld.com/images/events/sponsor_logos/Avon-2022.png#thumbnail=%2C&srcset=1)](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2893:swedish-fmv-selects-avon-protection-s-advanced-respiratory-protection&catid=12)

##  [Swedish FMV selects Avon Protection’s advanced respiratory protection ](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2893:swedish-fmv-selects-avon-protection-s-advanced-respiratory-protection&catid=12)

 Written by Zoe Rutherford on 01 June 2023.

Avon Protection is pleased to announce that its strategic partner, Promoteq, has been awarded a seven-year framework contract from the Swedish Defense Materiel Administration (FMV) for Avon Protection's advanced respiratory protection. The SEK100M (£8 million) contract includes FM54 respirators, CS-PAPRs and ST54 SCBA units, plus spares and accessories.

The framework contract will supply the Swedish Armed Forces’ specialist user groups with adaptable protection for operations in the most demanding environments. First deliveries against the contract will begin in 2023 and run through the end of the year.

The FM54 provides specialist operators maximum protection against CBRN threats, riot agents, Toxic Industrial Chemicals (TICs) and Toxic Industrial Materials (TIMs), while maintaining user flexibility as mission profiles change. The FM54 functions in both negative and positive pressure modes (APR, SCBA, CCBA and PAPR) with an enhanced, robust lever located on the Variable Resistance Exhalation Unit (VREU), that allows the user to switch mode from positive to negative pressure without changing masks.

The CS-PAPR utilises Avon Protection’s MP-PAPR module along with the patented combination hose module allowing the wearer to seamlessly switch between APR, PAPR and SCBA modes of protection. The single-sided air hose connection for all modes leaves one side of the face-piece clear so the wearer can easily sight a weapon. In addition, the low-profile shape of the CS-PAPR delivers best-in-class integration with SCBA systems, benefiting the wearer with reduced weight and size compared to traditional systems.

Optimised for use by the most demanding of tactical operators, the state-of-the-art ST54 Tactical Operator SCBA is the base of a multi-mission respiratory protection system which provides operational flexibility to the operator and mission commanders in the field, coupled with exceptional comfort and durability.

“FMV is an important strategic customer for Avon Protection, and we are delighted they have, once again, chosen to demonstrate their ongoing trust in our life-saving products,” said Steve Elwell, President, Avon Protection. “The ability to change levels of protection depending on the threat environment allows the user to increase the duration of use and complete their mission safely.”

       [![](https://cbrneworld.com/templates/yootheme/cache/93/Screenshot-2023-05-26-111203-931553a9.jpeg)](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2890:ntsb-to-hold-east-palestine-ohio-investigative-hearing-june-22-23&catid=12)

##  [NTSB to Hold East Palestine, Ohio, Investigative Hearing June 22-23](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2890:ntsb-to-hold-east-palestine-ohio-investigative-hearing-june-22-23&catid=12)

 Written by Zoe Rutherford on 26 May 2023.

The National Transportation Safety Board will hold a two-day investigative hearing in East Palestine, Ohio, on June 22-23, as part of the ongoing investigation into the [Feb. 3 derailment ](https://www.ntsb.gov/investigations/Pages/RRD23MR005.aspx)of a Norfolk Southern Railway train and subsequent hazardous material release and fires.

The investigative hearing, to be held at East Palestine High School beginning at 9 a.m. Eastern time both days, will focus on: hazard communications and emergency responder preparedness for the initial emergency response; the circumstances that led to the decision to vent and burn five rail tank cars carrying vinyl chloride; freight car bearing failure modes and wayside detection systems; and tank car derailment damage, crashworthiness and hazardous materials package information. NTSB investigative hearings gather sworn testimony from witnesses on issues the agency identifies during the investigation. While the investigative hearing is open to the public, only NTSB board members, investigators, scheduled witnesses and parties to the hearing are allowed to participate. The public is invited to observe the hearing.

“The communities most affected by this tragedy deserve as much insight as possible into our investigation, which is why we’re holding an investigative hearing in East Palestine,” said NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy. “While we unfortunately cannot change what happened that day, our entire agency is committed to carrying out our mission, which doesn’t end when we get to the bottom of what happened and why it happened—we’ll also work vigorously to prevent it from ever happening again.”

       [![](https://cbrneworld.com/templates/yootheme/cache/11/HIC-programme-thumbnail-11d4c098.jpeg)](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2889:new-programme-for-high-intensity-cbrn&catid=12)

##  [New Programme for High Intensity CBRN](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2889:new-programme-for-high-intensity-cbrn&catid=12)

 Written by Gwyn Winfield on 26 May 2023.

The latest programme for High Intensity CBRN is now available via - <https://cbrneworld.com/events/poland>

 [Read more …New Programme for High Intensity CBRN](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2889:new-programme-for-high-intensity-cbrn&catid=12)

       [![](https://cbrneworld.com/templates/yootheme/cache/5f/Indivior-logo-5f3de1d9.jpeg)](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2888:indivior-announces-fda-approval-of-opvee-nalmefene-nasal-spray-for-opioid-overdose&catid=12)

##  [Indivior Announces FDA Approval of OPVEE (nalmefene) Nasal Spray for Opioid Overdose](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2888:indivior-announces-fda-approval-of-opvee-nalmefene-nasal-spray-for-opioid-overdose&catid=12)

 Written by Zoe Rutherford on 24 May 2023.

Indivior PLC (LSE: INDV) today announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved OPVEE® (nalmefene) nasal spray for the emergency treatment of known or suspected opioid overdose induced by natural or synthetic opioids in adults and pediatric patients aged 12 years and older, as manifested by respiratory and/or central nervous system depression.2 OPVEE contains nalmefene, an opioid receptor antagonist that provides fast onset and long duration reversal of opioid-induced respiratory depression, which is the primary cause of opioid overdose injury and death.2,3,4 OPVEE was designed to address the challenges of today’s opioid crisis.

“OPVEE’s FDA approval represents a significant achievement in the development of new treatment options to address today’s era of opioid overdoses that are driven by powerful synthetic opioids, such as fentanyl,” said Mark Crossley, CEO, Indivior. “OPVEE is an emergency treatment for the fast reversal of respiratory depression triggered by natural or synthetic opioids, including fentanyl, 2,3,4 and we are committed to making this novel rescue medication widely available to those who need it most to help save lives.”

OPVEE was approved via the 505(b)(2) pathway. In a first of its kind pharmacodynamic study (NCT04828005) in 61 opioid-experienced, non-dependent subjects, the effect of 2.7 mg OPVEE was assessed on remifentanil-induced respiratory depression. Following OPVEE administration, the time to onset of reversal of respiratory depression was observed between 2.5 to 5 minutes and full recovery of respiratory drive was manifested as early as 5 minutes after OPVEE administration. The duration of action of nalmefene is as long as most opioids, including fentanyl. These attributes are well-suited to address the challenges of today’s opioid overdose crisis.

“Despite our collective effort to stem opioid abuse in America, addiction can happen to anyone, and millions of people are at risk for not only opioid overdose, but also poisoning from illicit synthetic opioids such as fentanyl,” said Jerome Adams, MD, MPH, Executive Director of Health Equity Initiatives, Purdue University. “With OPVEE, first responders will have a fast and long-acting rescue medication option to combat the current opioid epidemic and save lives.”

The speed of action, long duration, and high potency of fentanyl and other synthetic opioids are driving unprecedented overdose deaths across a broader range of ages, and they are now a leading cause of death for people ages 18 to 45.5 For each opioid-induced fatality, it has been estimated that there are an additional 6.4-8.4 non-fatal overdoses that can lead to long-term physical and mental disability.6

“I have seen firsthand the devastating impact of the opioid crisis on college campuses and in emergency rooms,” said Madeline Hilliard, Founder, Team Awareness Combating Overdose (TACO) and DopaGE. “The FDA approval of OPVEE is good news for everyone impacted by the overdose crisis. In fact, it uses the same device as currently available nasal overdose reversal agents on the market.”

A federally funded contract from the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), part of the Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response within the US Department of Health and Human Services, for up to $10.8 million, combined with a $7.4 million U01 “grand opportunities in medications development” grant received from the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), supported the development of OPVEE. The contract (number HHSO100201800029C) with BARDA was intended to develop OPVEE for reversal of opioid overdoses in the community and as a medical countermeasure and reversal agent in the event of a chemical attack using synthetic opioids.

OPVEE is expected to be in the market in Q4 of 2023.

Indivior added OPVEE to its portfolio with the acquisition of Opiant Pharmaceuticals, Inc., which closed March 2, 2023. As previously indicated, Indivior believes the clinical profile of OPVEE supports the potential for this treatment to deliver annual net revenue of $150 million to $250 million, with expected earnings accretion from the Opiant acquisition after the second full year of launch of OPVEE.

       [![](https://cbrneworld.com/templates/yootheme/cache/ce/NIH_Logo-ce7783e1.png)](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2886:first-in-human-trial-of-oral-drug-to-remove-radioactive-contamination-begins&catid=12)

##  [First-in-human trial of oral drug to remove radioactive contamination begins](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2886:first-in-human-trial-of-oral-drug-to-remove-radioactive-contamination-begins&catid=12)

 Written by Zoe Rutherford on 23 May 2023.

NIH-funded clinical trial will determine safety, tolerability of experimental drug.

### What

A first-in-human clinical trial of an experimental oral drug for removing radioactive contaminants from inside the body has begun. The trial is testing the safety, tolerability and processing in the body of escalating doses of the investigational drug product HOPO 14-1 in healthy adults. The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), part of the National Institutes of Health, is funding the Phase 1 trial, which is sponsored and conducted by SRI International of Menlo Park, California.

Internal radioactive contamination occurs when radioactive elements are absorbed through wounded skin, inhaled or ingested. This could happen as the result of a nuclear power plant accident or the detonation of a “[dirty bomb](https://www.nrc.gov/reading-rm/doc-collections/fact-sheets/fs-dirty-bombs.html)” or nuclear weapon. As the atoms of radioactive elements decay, they emit ionizing radiation, which can damage DNA, tissues and organs. One method for reducing the risk of this damage is to remove the radioactive elements from the body as soon as possible after contamination occurs.

The Food and Drug Administration has approved two products for removing internal radioactive contamination. These drugs, both based on diethylenetriamine pentaacetate (DTPA), are administered intravenously by a healthcare provider and can remove three radioactive elements: plutonium, americium, and curium.

In contrast, HOPO 14-1 has been formulated as an oral capsule, which would be easier than an intravenous drug to stockpile and to deploy and administer during an emergency. Preclinical research has shown that HOPO 14-1 can effectively remove many radioactive contaminants, including uranium and neptunium in addition to plutonium, americium and curium. These studies also have found that HOPO 14-1 is up to 100 times more effective than DTPA at binding and removing these radioactive elements.

NIAID has funded the discovery and development of HOPO 14-1 since 2006. The active pharmaceutical ingredient in the drug is called 3,4,3-LI(1,2-HOPO).

The clinical trial is taking place at a site in Plymouth, Michigan, under the leadership of Sascha N. Goonewardena, M.D., a physician investigator at SRI’s Clinical Trials Unit and an assistant professor of medicine at the University of Michigan Medical School in Ann Arbor. The study team will enroll 42 healthy participants ages 18 to 65 years in seven groups of six. Each participant in the first group will receive a 100-milligram (mg) dose of HOPO 14-1. The subsequent groups will receive increasingly higher doses of the study drug up to 7500 mg in the final group, if lower doses are deemed safe. Participants will undergo intensive safety monitoring and will be followed for 14 days to measure the absorption, distribution and elimination of the study drug. Results are expected in 2024.

Additional information about the trial is available in [ClinicalTrials.gov](https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/home) under study identifier [NCT05628961](https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05628961).

### Who

Andrea DiCarlo-Cohen, Ph.D., director of the Radiation and Nuclear Countermeasures Program in the NIAID Division of Allergy, Immunology and Transplantation, is available to respond to media inquiries about the trial.

NIAID conducts and supports research—at NIH, throughout the United States, and worldwide—to study the causes of infectious and immune-mediated diseases, and to develop better means of preventing, diagnosing and treating these illnesses. News releases, fact sheets and other NIAID-related materials are available on the [NIAID website](https://www.niaid.nih.gov/).

**About the National Institutes of Health (NIH):** NIH, the nation's medical research agency, includes 27 Institutes and Centers and is a component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. NIH is the primary federal agency conducting and supporting basic, clinical, and translational medical research, and is investigating the causes, treatments, and cures for both common and rare diseases. For more information about NIH and its programs, visit [www.nih.gov](https://www.nih.gov/).

     ##  [DEVCOM CBC director reaffirms oath](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2885:devcom-cbc-director-reaffirms-oath&catid=12)

 Written by Gwyn Winfield on 22 May 2023.

Michael Bailey reaffirmed his oath of office in a May 18 ceremony recognizing him as the director of the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Chemical Biological Center (DEVCOM CBC). The oath was administered by DEVCOM Commanding General Maj. Gen.Edmond “Miles” Brown in a ceremony at Aberdeen Proving Ground. The position elevates Bailey to Senior Executive Service Tier 2 and follows his tenure as acting director of the Center, which he held since November 10, 2022. Deborah Bailey held the Bible as her husband affirmed his oath, and their two children and Mr.Bailey’s parents looked on from the front row.

Bailey has been involved in chemical biological defense as a scientist and leader, holding varied positions for more than 23 years. He was the deputy joint project manager for CBRN sensors at the Joint Program Executive Office for Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) Defense from 2019 to 2021. There he was responsible for the management and execution of a CBRN portfolio of sensor development and procurement programs, and platform integration programs.He served as senior strategist at the Joint Program Executive Office for Chemical andBiological Defense (JPEO-CBD) from 2017 to 2019. Before that, he spent a year as a student at Eisenhower School for National Security and Resource at National Defense University after having served as a strategic planner at JPEO-CBD from 2014 to 2016. From 2012 to 2014, he contributed to the Army’s Strategic Studies Group as a strategic planner working for the Chief of Staff of the Army. There, he played a critical role in helping the Army’s most senior leaders understand global urbanization trends and whatthey mean for future force structure and capability requirements.

       [![](https://cbrneworld.com/component/ajax/?p=image&src=%7B%22file%22%3A%22images%2Fevents%2Fsponsor_logos%2FPaul_Boye.jpg%22%2C%22thumbnail%22%3A%22%2C%22%7D&hash=65201f4e)](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2881:the-army-receives-ultra-sophisticated-french-nbc-protection-suits-by-paul-boye&catid=12)

##  [The army receives ultra-sophisticated French NBC protection suits by Paul Boye](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2881:the-army-receives-ultra-sophisticated-french-nbc-protection-suits-by-paul-boye&catid=12)

 Written by Zoe Rutherford on 17 May 2023.

The army needs sophisticated NBC suits to protect its members from combat agents, hazardous substances and toxic chemicals. The Federal Office for Defense Procurement (armasuisse) has ordered around 220,000 of these operational and training suits from French company Paul Boye. The first ones have already been delivered, the others will follow until mid-2026.

It is essential for the army to have the capacity to face nuclear, biological, and chemical (NBC) warfare assets. The most likely threats in this area are the release of combat agents and hazardous substances, as well as chemical terrorist attacks. Technical accidents linked to the manufacture, storage and transport of these materials cannot be excluded either. Therefore, an adequate equipment must be provided to the military for protection against chemical weapons, radiological and toxic substances, bacteria, viruses, toxins and irritating products. To that end, the NBC personal protective equipment is the solution. It includes a coverall, mask, gloves and overboots. The last time the army had acquired such equipment was in the 1990s. It is still used today, although it cannot compete with today’s textiles in terms of movement, breathability and weight.

One-piece coveralls provide better protection NBC protective suits have now evolved significantly in terms of mobility, functionality and even protection. The current models offer a one-piece coverall. They provide much better protection for the wearer against combat agents and hazardous substances, especially biological weapons (pathogens that are highly medically harmful) and ae-rosol combat agents (a mixture of solid or liquid particles in a gas). Those coveralls are made of a more breathable materials and allow for greater freedom of movement. Spiez Laboratory had tested a new acquisition of the old equipment, but the idea was rejected because of the poor protection offered against biological weapons, a weakness that could not be corrected afterwards.

Some 30,000 protective suits received In total, armasuisse has ordered 160,000 operational suits with camouflage pattern. So far, more than 30,000 pieces have been received and stored by the Armed Forces Logistics Base (AFLB). They protect soldiers from chemical agents for at least six hours and prevent contamination (pollution) by radioactive material (dust, aerosols) and biological substances as well as their incorporation (absorption of foreign components by the body). Offering the best NBC protection nowadays, they remain effective even under mechanical strains. armasuisse has also ordered 57,000 plain olive green training suits. The first more than 3000 pieces have arrived at the BLA. Their use will begin by 2024 at the latest. They do not provide any NBC protection, but correspond in all respects to the operational suits in terms of handling and response to climate conditions.

The remaining part will be delivered up to 2026 The remaining 129,000 operational suits and 53,700 training suits will be delivered in several shipments by the end of 2026 at the latest. armasuisse is buying them from Paul Boyé Technologies, a French company located in Labarthe-sur-Lèze near Toulouse. This manufacturer also supplies the NBC protection suits to the French army.

     ##  [Director of Russian virology research centre fired for corruption](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2880:director-of-russian-virology-research-centre-fired-for-corruption&catid=12)

 Written by Gwyn Winfield on 17 May 2023.

\[Offered without comment\]

Interfax reported that the head of Russia's Vektor Research Centre for Virology and Biotechnology has been dismissed following corruption allegations. State consumer rights and public health watchdog Rospotrebnadzor said on 17 May that Rinat Maksyutov had been fired for violating the law "on countering corruption", Interfax news agency reported. Rospotrebnadzor also said that a conflict of interest had been revealed concerning his work at the centre.

Maksyutov had headed Vektor since 2003, Interfax noted. Vektor, which is located in the Siberian city of Novosibirsk, was responsible for the development of EpiVacCorona, Russia's second coronavirus vaccine after Sputnik V. Founded in 1974, the centre is known to have played a prominent role in the Soviet Union's biological warfare programme.

       [![](https://cbrneworld.com/templates/yootheme/cache/d0/Bomb-no-year-d053b731.png)](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2879:new-cbrne-convergence-2023-programme-available&catid=12)

##  [New CBRNe Convergence 2023 programme available](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2879:new-cbrne-convergence-2023-programme-available&catid=12)

 Written by Zoe Rutherford on 17 May 2023.

The latest programme for CBRNe Convergence 2023 in Knoxville is now availble to view [here](https://docs.google.com/viewer?url=https://cbrneworld.com/component/edocman/cbrne-convergence-knoxville/fdocument?Itemid=9999)

 [Read more …New CBRNe Convergence 2023 programme available](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2879:new-cbrne-convergence-2023-programme-available&catid=12)

       [![](https://cbrneworld.com/component/ajax/?p=image&src=%7B%22file%22%3A%22images%2FNews-Images%2Fobservis-obsas.jpg%22%2C%22thumbnail%22%3A%22%2C%22%7D&hash=c84e58ef)](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2871:new-devices-integrated-to-observis-oy-obsas-systems&catid=12)

##  [New devices integrated to Observis Oy ObSAS systems](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2871:new-devices-integrated-to-observis-oy-obsas-systems&catid=12)

 Written by Zoe Rutherford on 16 May 2023.

Observis Oy is always working with CBRN device manufacturers to bring their devices available to their ObSAS System and for their customers.

The list of supported devices is ever expanding and these are the latest devices to have been integrated to our system: **908MX HPMS** portable mass spectrometer for detecting and identifying chemical threats, **Research International TAC-7** Bioaerosol detector, **Kromek D5 RIID** High accuracy Radioisotope Identification Device, **Kestrel 5000** handheld environmental meter, **Bertin Environics ChemProX** handheld CWA &amp; TIC detector.

You can read more about Observis Oy and their software systems[ here ](https://www.observis.fi/obsas/)

       [![](https://cbrneworld.com/templates/yootheme/cache/58/OPCW_Signature_-_Centred_-_RGB-58c009c5.png)](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2867:opcw-centre-for-chemistry-and-technology-officially-inaugurated&catid=12)

##  [OPCW Centre for Chemistry and Technology officially inaugurated](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2867:opcw-centre-for-chemistry-and-technology-officially-inaugurated&catid=12)

 Written by Zoe Rutherford on 12 May 2023.

The Centre will strengthen the capabilities of OPCW and its Member States to implement the Chemical Weapons Convention.

In the presence of His Majesty King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands the official inauguration of the new Centre for Chemistry and Technology (ChemTech Centre) of the Organisation for Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) in Pijnacker-Nootdorp, Netherlands, took place today Friday 12 of May.

During the ceremony, His Majesty the King unveiled a plaque to mark the official inauguration of the Centre and was given a guided tour of the facilities. “The ChemTech Centre is a success of multilateral diplomacy and tangible symbol of what the international community can achieve together in the benefit of global peace and security. It is a privilege and honour that the Centre is inaugurated in the presence of His Majesty King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands,” the Director-General said in his opening remarks. “I thank 57 donor countries, and other donors, including the European Union and the members of the Global Partnership Against the Spread of Weapons of Mass Destruction for their strong political and financial support to make this Centre a reality. We will leave a special legacy to future generations for the common interest of peace and security.”

Speaking on behalf of the OPCW’s host country, H.E. Mr Paul Huijts, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, stated: “It is a great honour to participate in the inauguration ceremony of the ChemTech Centre. As Host Nation to and Member State of the OPCW, the Netherlands is strongly committed to upholding the global norm against the use of chemical weapons. It is our firm belief that all Member States will benefit from the new and exciting opportunities the ChemTech Centre has to offer and that it will greatly contribute to further bolster its international role, particularly in disarmament, verification and cooperation.”

The ChemTech Centre is an important upgrade to the OPCW’s capabilities to adapt to the evolving global security landscape and assisting Member States in upholding the global norm against chemical weapons. It will ensure that the Organisation remains able to address threats and opportunities arising from rapid progress in science and technology.

The Centre also provides a platform to better coordinate efforts between scientists, academia, civil society, industry, and relevant international organisations. Activities at the Centre underpin the role of the Organisation as the world’s leading repository of chemical weapons related expertise and knowledge, addressing chemical threats worldwide.

The ChemTech Centre is located in Pijnacker-Nootdorp, 12 km from OPCW Headquarters in The Hague. The floor size of the facility is 5,700m². It houses the OPCW Laboratory, a Technology and Training Hub, an instruction space, and advanced training facilities for OPCW staff and capacity building activities for experts from Member States

“As mayor I am very proud that the OPCW – an internationally important and prestigious organisation – chose the municipality of Pijnacker-Nootdorp as location for their ChemTech Centre,” said H.E. Mr Björn Lugthart, Mayor of Pijnacker-Nootdorp.

The ceremony was attended by high-level dignitaries, including H.E. Ms Bonnie Jenkins, Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security of the United States of America; H.E. Ms Baroness Goldie, Minister of State at the Ministry of Defence of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland; and H.E. Ms Yuumi Yoshikawa, Parliamentary Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan. Ambassadors and other high-level officials were also present at the event.

       [![](https://cbrneworld.com/component/ajax/?p=image&src=%7B%22file%22%3A%22images%2FNews-Images%2FUS-DOD.jpeg%22%2C%22thumbnail%22%3A%22%2C%22%7D&hash=80e9e05a)](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2854:dod-releases-national-defense-science-and-technology-strategy&catid=12)

##  [DoD Releases National Defense Science and Technology Strategy](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2854:dod-releases-national-defense-science-and-technology-strategy&catid=12)

 Written by Zoe Rutherford on 10 May 2023.

The Department of Defense released the National Defense Science and Technology Strategy, or NDSTS, today. Guided by the National Defense Strategy, the NDSTS articulates the science and technology priorities, goals, and investments of the Department and makes recommendations on the future of the defense research and engineering enterprise.

"To achieve the objectives of the NDS we must leverage critical emerging technologies," said Heidi Shyu, DoD Chief Technology Officer. "This Strategy helps us make carefully crafted decisions that bolster our comparative advantages rather than engaging in wasteful technology races. We will emphasize developing asymmetric capabilities that will help ensure our national security over the long term."

The Strategy will execute along three lines of effort:

- **Focus on the Joint Mission** by investing in information systems and establishing processes for rigorous, threat informed analysis that will better enable the Department to make informed choices in its science and technology investments.
- **Create and field capabilities at speed and scale** by fostering a more vibrant defense innovation ecosystem, accelerating the transition of new technology into the field, and communicating effectively inside and outside the Department.
- **Ensure the foundations for research and development** by continuing and expanding upon our efforts to recruit, retain, and cultivate talent; revitalizing our physical infrastructure; upgrading our digital infrastructure; and nurturing stronger collaboration across all stakeholders.

The NDSTS will continue to emphasize the 14 [Critical Technology Areas](https://www.cto.mil/usdre-strat-vision-critical-tech-areas/) detailed in the DoD CTO's Strategic Vision. Also, international allies and industry partners are integral to the Department's research and development efforts, and the Strategy seeks to expand opportunities to co-research and co-develop with them. The Department will continue to leverage the broad innovation ecosystem across academia, Federally-funded research and development centers (FFRDCs), university affiliated research centers (UARCs), DoD laboratories, national laboratories, non-profit entities, commercial industry, and other Government departments and agencies. The unclassified version of the Strategy can be [accessed here](https://media.defense.gov/2023/May/09/2003218877/-1/-1/0/NDSTS-FINAL-WEB-VERSION.PDF).

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