---
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=689"
date: "2026-07-31T07:09:05+00:00"
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---

[![](https://cbrneworld.com/templates/yootheme/cache/47/DHS_ST-47bed3b1.png)](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1888:r-d-collaboration-leads-to-award-winning-chemical-weapons-detection-tech&catid=12)

##  [R&D Collaboration Leads to Award-Winning Chemical Weapons Detection Tech](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1888:r-d-collaboration-leads-to-award-winning-chemical-weapons-detection-tech&catid=12)

 Written by Zoe Rutherford on 22 March 2021.

[From DHS S&T ](https://www.dhs.gov/science-and-technology/news/2021/03/18/feature-article-rd-collaboration-leads-award-winning-chemical-weapons-detection-tech)

It is always nice to be honored for a job well done—even better to share the recognition with your friends. That’s just what happened when an innovative new chemical detection technology called [SEDONA](https://www.dhs.gov/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fapp%3Ddesktop%26v%3DCiJO1vGg9UY%26feature%3Demb_logo), or SpEctroscopic Detection of Nerve Agents, was recognized as a [2020 R&D 100 Award-winner](https://www.dhs.gov/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.rdworldonline.com%2Frd-100-award-winners-announced-in-analytical-test-it-electrical-categories%2F).

SEDONA is the result of a joint research and development effort between the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) [Science and Technology Directorate](https://www.dhs.gov/science-and-technology/) (S&T) and our partners at the [Los Alamos National Laboratory](https://www.lanl.gov/) (LANL). When deployed at security checkpoints, border crossings, and ports of entry across the country, SEDONA will enhance DHS’s abilities to detect and intercept dangerous chemicals and nerve agents. We’d call this a win-win.

“DHS staff members in the field need to be able to safely and efficiently scan for and detect chemicals, nerve agents, and related substances that can pose a threat to our citizens,” said S&T program manager Dr. Don Bansleben. “To ensure that they always have cutting-edge tools at their disposal, we continuously work with our various partners and subject matter experts to review new and improved technologies that can help these frontline operators address and mitigate emerging threats.”

![A LANL scientist uses SEDONA to scan the contents of a bottle for the presence of dangerous chemical weapons.](https://www.dhs.gov/sites/default/files/images/st/Feature_Article/21_0318_st_sedona_feature_article.jpg)

SEDONA is a user-friendly, portable, prototype chemical agent detection system that uses an ultra-low-field nuclear magnetic resonance technique to quickly and accurately detect chemical threats in smaller-sized bottles and containers—without needing to open them.

“SEDONA works by scanning and analyzing liquids to check for the presence of specific chemical elements that are key components in organophosphorus nerve agents and related chemical threats,” said Dr. Bob Williams, LANL Bioscience Division team lead. “These elements respond in very specific ways when they are exposed to SEDONA’s electromagnetic field. Each one has a unique radio frequency, also known as a ‘signature,’ at which they resonate when SEDONA’s electromagnetic radiation passes through them.”

The system recognizes these signatures, and by measuring their amounts and ratios, determines whether a nerve or chemical agent is present. Benign liquids such as shampoo, toothpaste, and bottles of water and other beverages will not contain chemical elements of interest. Nerve agents and related chemical threats, however, will exhibit a unique signature, known as “J-coupling,” which will be immediately detected and red-flagged by SEDONA in less than 10 seconds.

“SEDONA was recognized with an R&D 100 Award due to the fact that it’s a groundbreaking technology—the first of its kind,” explained Williams. “Until now, there has never been a tool with SEDONA’s capabilities.”

“We believe in the importance of fostering technological and scientific advancements in the fields of checkpoint, border, and port security,” explained Bansleben. “This is why we supported LANL in their efforts to develop SEDONA. We’re very proud of their achievements and are thrilled that they were recognized with this prestigious award.”

Preliminary testing data from LANL indicates that SEDONA has the potential to be a promising secondary screening tool at security checkpoints, border crossings, and ports in the near future. However, before it’s implemented in the field, the LANL team is working to expand SEDONA’s screening capabilities to detect key elements that are found in other types of nerve agents, liquid explosives, and opioids; automate the process; and conduct more field testing to confirm its efficacy.

Bansleben noted that SEDONA could be useful in a wide range of fields and venues.

“Federal agencies may find SEDONA to be a versatile screening tool for helping to mitigate the unlawful entry, dissemination, and use of nerve and chemical agents, liquid explosives, and drugs,” said Bansleben. “However, it also has the potential to be effective in other settings such as courthouses, sporting arenas, correctional facilities, government buildings, and any other highly-trafficked areas where security and safety are of the utmost priority.”

 [Detection](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/detection), [CBRNe](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/cbrne), [Chemical](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/chemical)

       [![](https://cbrneworld.com/images/events/sponsor_logos/BioFire_NEW_logo.jpg#thumbnail=%2C&srcset=1)](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1885:fda-permits-marketing-of-first-sars-cov-2-diagnostic-test-using-traditional-premarket-review-process&catid=12)

##  [FDA Permits Marketing of First SARS-CoV-2 Diagnostic Test Using Traditional Premarket Review Process](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1885:fda-permits-marketing-of-first-sars-cov-2-diagnostic-test-using-traditional-premarket-review-process&catid=12)

 Written by Zoe Rutherford on 19 March 2021.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration [granted marketing authorization of the BioFire Respiratory Panel 2.1 (RP2.1)](https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/cdrh_docs/pdf20/DEN200031.pdf), a diagnostic test for the simultaneous qualitative detection and identification of multiple respiratory viral and bacterial nucleic acids in nasopharyngeal swabs (NPS) obtained from individuals suspected of COVID-19 and other respiratory tract infections. The diagnostic test, which had an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA), was granted marketing authorization using the De Novo premarket review pathway, a regulatory pathway for low- to moderate-risk devices of a new type. The grant of this De Novo request marks an important step in FDA’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic because it is the first SARS-CoV-2 diagnostic test that will be permitted to be marketed beyond the public health emergency.

“Today’s action is a great demonstration of the FDA’s work to protect the public health in emergency response situations and beyond,” said FDA Acting Commissioner Janet Woodcock, M.D. “We ensured there were tests made available quickly under EUA; and we continue to work with diagnostic manufacturers to take the next step of ensuring products are FDA reviewed for safety and effectiveness and authorized for marketing under our traditional premarket authorities. While this is the first marketing authorization for a diagnostic test using a traditional premarket review process, we do not expect this to be the last and look forward to working with developers of medical products to move their products through our traditional review pathways.”

The grant of the De Novo request for this test is based on additional data showing validation beyond what is needed for emergency use authorization. The FDA reviewed data from a clinical study of more than 500 test samples and a variety of analytical studies, which demonstrated a reasonable assurance that the BioFire RP2.1 was safe and effective at identification and differentiation of various respiratory viral and bacterial pathogens.

With granting of the De Novo for the BioFire RP2.1 today, the FDA has also revoked the EUA for this device, which was initially authorized for emergency use in May 2020. This EUA revocation and De Novo authorization do not impact the availability other tests under EUA.

 [Detection](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/detection), [Biological](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/biological)

       [![](https://cbrneworld.com/templates/yootheme/cache/03/FLIR-Corporate-Logo---Black-03139d15.png)](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1884:flir-systems-wins-8-0m-research-and-development-contract-for-next-generation-chemical-detection-technology&catid=12)

##  [FLIR Systems Wins $8.0M Research and Development Contract for Next-Generation Chemical Detection Technology](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1884:flir-systems-wins-8-0m-research-and-development-contract-for-next-generation-chemical-detection-technology&catid=12)

 Written by Zoe Rutherford on 19 March 2021.

*FLIR to Team with Purdue University to Develop Novel Ion Separation and Analysis Technologies with Funding from the Defense Threat Reduction Agency*

FLIR Systems, Inc. (NASDAQ: FLIR) announced it has won a contract worth up to $8.0 million from the United States Defense Threat Reduction Agency’s Joint Science and Technology Office (DTRA JSTO) to rapidly develop next-generation chemical detection solutions based on ion mobility spectrometry (IMS) and mass spectrometry (MS) technology.

FLIR will team with Purdue University to advance their cutting-edge research in ion mobility design and two-dimensional mass spectrometry (2D MS/MS) into a modular, flexible platform system for chemical detection. The platform will be fielded as a lightweight, person-portable sensor for downrange chemical screening, as a sensor payload for unmanned platforms, and as an embedded real-time monitor for chemical releases. The program’s goal is to provide warfighters with smaller, faster, more interconnected chemical detection and identification tools for use in a wide range of scenarios.

“We’re proud to have the opportunity to lead this effort to develop and deliver innovative point-sensing technology for use on the frontlines,” said Dr. David Cullin, vice president in the Sensors business at FLIR. “Speedy and accurate chemical classification is paramount to countering these dangerous threats. We’re excited to work with Purdue University on a system that will provide our Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines with life-saving solutions.”

The IMS/MS project will leverage recent innovations from FLIR and Purdue to further develop compact hardware with novel MS scanning techniques that allow far more chemical identification data to be collected from a single sample analysis. The work also has the potential to change the paradigm of fielded chemical detection by removing the need for pre-recorded data libraries of known threats. Advanced algorithms will enable variants of threats that have not been seen before to be rapidly classified and identified. The complete system also will include modular front-ends to facilitate wider sampling analysis, as well as multiple options for communication protocols, power inputs, and other links to support a broad range of detection missions.

The three-year effort, consisting of a one-year base period followed by two one-year options, will result in a mature integrated IMS/MS prototype ready for transition to an acquisition Program of Record. Work will be performed at Purdue University and at FLIR facilities in West Lafayette, Indiana.

For more on FLIR Systems’ threat detection products, visit [www.flir.com/threat-detection/](http://www.flir.com/threat-detection/).

 [CBRNe](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/cbrne), [Contract](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/contract)

       [![](https://cbrneworld.com/component/ajax/?p=image&src=%7B%22file%22%3A%22images%2FNews-Images%2FMARDUK_Shark_Scenario2_2021-03-12-scaled.jpg%22%2C%22thumbnail%22%3A%22%2C%22%7D&hash=df65fb1f)](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1883:milrem-robotics-and-marduk-technologies-launch-an-autonomous-c-uas-system&catid=12)

##  [Milrem Robotics and Marduk Technologies launch an autonomous C-UAS system ](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1883:milrem-robotics-and-marduk-technologies-launch-an-autonomous-c-uas-system&catid=12)

 Written by Zoe Rutherford on 18 March 2021.

Milrem Robotics, the European leading robotics and autonomous systems developer and Marduk Technologies, the provider of world-class Counter Unmanned Aerial System (C-UAS) solutions jointly launched a unique mobile autonomous C-UAS platform that offers protection against loitering munition and surveillance drones.

The jointly developed system features the electro-optical C-UAS platform Marduk Shark and the THeMIS unmanned ground vehicle (UGV). This mobile solution provides frontline forces with an independent ability to accurately detect, classify and target loitering munition and other flying objects. It uses the most advanced Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning models.

The mobile C-UAS platform can be integrated with kinetic and non-kinetic weapon systems and with different sensors and effectors such as radar, radio frequency detector, jammer, laser, etc.

Currently, most C-UAS solutions are used stationary, however, utilizing mobile platforms with autonomous capabilities gives defences forces the flexibility to relocate them according to the threat assessment. Mobility also provides early warning for the forces in various positions.

“Frontline forces on the move are most exposed to adversary drones. The mobile autonomous C-UAS platform gives our customers an additional layer of protection and extends our product portfolio, which lets us provide more capabilities for our defence customers,” said Martin Simon, the CEO of Marduk Technologies.

“Autonomous UGVs equipped with a C-UAS payload create a new capability on the battlefield that allows forces to focus on their main task of engaging the adversary while UGVs provide better situational awareness and force protection,” said Kuldar Väärsi, CEO of Milrem Robotics.

     ##  [China's bumper DNA harvest](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1882:china-s-dna-bumper-harvest&catid=12)

 Written by Gwyn Winfield on 15 March 2021.

We interviewed the FBI's Ed You way back in [2017 ](https://docs.google.com/viewer?url=https://cbrneworld.com/component/edocman/ed-you/fdocument?Itemid=9999)and he presciently warned about China's appetite for harvesting DNA data. This is now happening on an unprecedented scale, and while it is difficult to know what they want to use it for, the fact that they are collecting it can't be ignored. Below are some of the recent news stories on this.

**Genomic surveillance: inside China’s DNA [dragnet](https://www.aspi.org.au/report/genomic-surveillance). James Leibold and Emile Dirks, ASPI. 17 June 2020. Also a [summary](https://www.aspistrategist.org.au/genomic-surveillance-inside-chinas-dna-dragnet/)**

**China Is Collecting DNA From Tens of Millions of Men and Boys, Using U.S. [Equipment](https://www.nytimes.com/2020/06/17/world/asia/China-DNA-surveillance.html). Sui-Lee Wee. NYT, June 17, 2020.

 China’s Biosecurity State in Xinjiang Is Powered by Western [Tech](https://foreignpolicy.com/2020/02/19/china-xinjiang-surveillance-biosecurity-state-dna-western-tech/). Jessica Batke, Mareike Ohlberg. Foreign Policy, February 19, 2020.

 China Is Harvesting the DNA of Its People. Is This the Future of [Policing](https://www.nytimes.com/2020/07/24/opinion/china-dna-police.html)? Emile Dirks and James Leibold. NYT, July 24, 2020.

 Post #267: In China, Your DNA Belongs to the [State](https://melgurtov.com/2020/07/07/post-267-in-china-your-dna-belongs-to-the-state/). Mel Gurtov. 7 July 2020.

\[Danish\] DNA fra undertrykt folkeslag i Kina brugt i dansk [forskning](https://jyllands-posten.dk/indland/ECE12247750/dna-fra-undertrykt-folkeslag-i-kina-brugt-i-dansk-forskning/). Matias Seidelin, Mads Bonde Broberg, Jyllands-Posten. 26.06.2020 & DNA fra undertrykt [folkeslag ](https://www.nb-okonomi.dk/2020/06/26/dna-fra-undertrykt-folkeslag-i-kina-brugt-i-dansk-forskning/) Ritzau

 Police Collect Children’s Blood Without Parents’ [Consent](https://bitterwinter.org/police-collect-childrens-blood-without-parents-consent/). Lu Xiaojing. Bitter Winter, 01/02/2020.

 China: DNA Phenotyping Profiles Racial [Minorities](https://mindmatters.ai/2019/12/china-dna-phenotyping-profiles-racial-minorities/). Heather Zeiger, Mind Matters, December 26, 2019.

 China Uses DNA to Map Faces, With Help From the [West](https://www.nytimes.com/2019/12/03/business/china-dna-uighurs-xinjiang.html). Sui-Lee Wee and Paul Mozur. NYT, Dec. 3, 2019

 Crack down on genomic [surveillance](https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-019-03687-x). Yves Moreau. Nature, 03 December 2019.

 Mandatory DNA Collection Imposed to Expand National [Database](https://bitterwinter.org/mandatory-dna-collection-imposed-to-expand-national-database/). Chang Xin. Bitter Winter, 10/09/2019.**

**Mandatory Collection of Male DNA Data in [China](https://www.rfa.org/mandarin/yataibaodao/renquanfazhi/ql1-09262019071516.htmls). Radio Free Asia, September 26, 2019**

**Abusing People’s Rights, CCP Collects DNA for Tighter [Control](https://bitterwinter.org/ccp-collects-dna-for-tighter-control/). Wang Yong. Bitter Winter, 08/17/2019

 Guangdong Police Take Saliva Samples Amid Fears of Nationwide DNA [Program](https://www.rfa.org/english/news/china/saliva-08072019135647.html). RFA, 2019-08-07.

 US firms’ links with Chinese on genomics a red flag for FBI: Fears mount Beijing could use DNA data for biological weapons via genetic [mapping](https://www.irishtimes.com/news/health/us-firms-links-with-chinese-on-genomics-a-red-flag-for-fbi-1.3955143#sst). Colm Keena, Irish Times, 12 July 2019.

 Stuck in China's [Panopticon](https://www.npr.org/2019/07/05/738949320/episode-924-stuck-in-chinas-panopticon). Ailsa Chang, Nick Fountain. NPR, Planet Money. July 5, 2019**

****Chinese company leaves Muslim-tracking facial recognition database exposed [online](https://www.zdnet.com/article/chinese-company-leaves-muslim-tracking-facial-recognition-database-exposed-online/), Cimpanu, ZD Net, February 2019

US company to stop selling China equipment to build Uighur DNA [database](https://www.theguardian.com/world/2019/feb/22/us-company-to-stop-selling-china-equipment-to-build-uighur-dna-database). Agence France-Presse / The Guardian, Fri 22 Feb 2019 06.45 GMT.**

**China installing QR codes on Uyghur Muslim homes as part of mass security [crackdown](https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/asia/china-uyghur-muslims-xinjiang-province-qr-codes-security-crackdown-hrw-a8532156.html). Tom Embury-Dennis, The Independent. 11 Sept. 2018.

Eugen Fischer would have loved this capability! Detecting Genome-wide Variants of Eurasian Facial Shape [Differentiation](https://www.biorxiv.org/content/biorxiv/early/2016/07/11/062950.full.pdf), Qiao et al. 2016**

       [![](https://cbrneworld.com/images/News-Images/medicinova-inc-logo.jpg#thumbnail=%2C&srcset=1)](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1879:medicinova-announces-partnership-with-barda-to-develop-mn-166-ibudilast-as-a-medical-countermeasure-against-chlorine-gas-induced-lung-injury&catid=12)

##  [MediciNova Announces Partnership with BARDA to Develop MN-166 (ibudilast) as a Medical Countermeasure Against Chlorine Gas-induced Lung Injury](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1879:medicinova-announces-partnership-with-barda-to-develop-mn-166-ibudilast-as-a-medical-countermeasure-against-chlorine-gas-induced-lung-injury&catid=12)

 Written by Zoe Rutherford on 11 March 2021.

MediciNova, Inc., a biopharmaceutical company, today announced it has partnered with the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), part of the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, to repurpose MN-166 (ibudilast) as a potential medical countermeasure (MCM) against chlorine gas-induced lung damage such as acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and acute lung injury (ALI). Under the Division of Research, Innovation, and Ventures’ (DRIVe) Repurposing Drugs in Response to Chemical Threats (ReDIRECT) program, BARDA will provide funding for proof-of-concept studies of MN-166 in preclinical models of chlorine gas-induced acute lung injury. MN-166 is the first compound to receive BARDA’s development support through the DRIVe ReDIRECT program.

Kazuko Matsuda, M.D., Ph.D., M.P.H., Chief Medical Officer of MediciNova, Inc., commented, “On behalf of the entire MediciNova team, we are grateful for the opportunity to partner with BARDA in an effort to repurpose MN-166 as a rapidly administered treatment for patients exposed to chemical agents such as chlorine. MN-166 attenuated histological changes observed in an ARDS animal model, including pulmonary edema in lung tissue, and protected against pulmonary injury by reducing cellular apoptosis in lung tissue. Considering that pulmonary edema is a hallmark feature of exposure to chlorine, MN-166 has the potential to improve health outcomes and save lives. To date, more than 800 research participants have been treated with high-dose MN-166 in MediciNova’s clinical trials. MN-166 has shown a benign safety and tolerability profile.”

This project has been funded in whole or in part with Federal funds from the Department of Health and Human Services; Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response; Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority, under Contract No. 75A50121C00022.

**About MN-166**
MN-166 is a small molecule compound that inhibits phosphodiesterase type-4 (PDE4) and inflammatory cytokines, including macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF). It is in late-stage clinical development for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), progressive MS (multiple sclerosis), and DCM (degenerative cervical myelopathy), and also for glioblastoma, CIPN (chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy), and substance use disorder. In addition, MN-166 is being evaluated in patients with COVID-19 that are at risk for developing ARDS.

**About ReDIRECT**
BARDA established the ReDIRECT project to repurpose commonly available therapeutics as MCMs against chemical threats (e.g., cyanide, opioids, nerve agents, chlorine, sulfur mustard, etc.). During a chemical emergency, minutes matter and a rapid response is necessary to save lives and reduce the incidence of adverse health effects. Drug repurposing is a strategy that is used to identify new uses for FDA approved or late-stage investigational therapeutics outside of their original clinical indication. The identification of existing and commonly available therapeutics for repurposing as MCMs holds the potential to expand current response capabilities to chemical threats and strengthen the United States’ preparedness posture.

**About MediciNova**
MediciNova, Inc. is a publicly-traded biopharmaceutical company founded upon developing novel, small-molecule therapeutics for the treatment of diseases with unmet medical needs with a primary commercial focus on the U.S. market. MediciNova's current strategy is to focus on MN-166 (ibudilast) for neurological disorders such as progressive multiple sclerosis (MS), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM), substance dependence (e.g., alcohol use disorder, methamphetamine dependence, opioid dependence) and glioblastoma (GBM), as well as prevention of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) caused by COVID-19, and MN-001 (tipelukast) for fibrotic diseases such as nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). MediciNova’s pipeline also includes MN-221 (bedoradrine) and MN-029 (denibulin). For more information on MediciNova, Inc., please visit [www.medicinova.com](https://www.globenewswire.com/Tracker?data=d-RD2eNKJUs53_5c5YMIy3AtF2gdnzp5OqTrIu8084e1IXYEJmrkthz8nz6dYwtgssW84GZD4x8AyCokVvk1vDHzUcijG08stZ2-xYBlGlI=).

 [Threat](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/threat), [CBRNe](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/cbrne), [Medical Countermeasure](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/medical-countermeasure)

       [![](https://cbrneworld.com/templates/yootheme/cache/f1/ch15-escape-hood-f161235d.jpeg)](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1878:avon-protection-launch-new-compact-respiratory-protection-solution&catid=12)

##  [Avon Protection Launch New Compact Respiratory Protection Solution](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1878:avon-protection-launch-new-compact-respiratory-protection-solution&catid=12)

 Written by Zoe Rutherford on 10 March 2021.

Avon Protection are pleased to announce the launch of the CH15, a revolutionary new, ultra-thin, single size portable escape hood that provides a minimum of 15 minutes of respiratory vision and facial protection against Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear threats.

The last decade has clearly demonstrated how the threat profile has changed significantly. Today most threats are unplanned, the CH15 is a development driven after an emerging requirement from specialist users to provide instant protection from all CBRN materials when in a live threat scenario. Developed in conjunction with The Combating Terrorism Technical Support Office (CTTSO), the CH15 escape hood provides rapid deployment respiratory protection for military, first responders and protective detail.

Commenting on the launch of the CH15, Justin Hine, Global Product Manager, said: “The CH15 offers a different approach to carrying respiratory protection, this device offers what no other traditional respirator can, a low profile, lightweight, one size fits all solution that is small and light enough to be carried at all times. This unique portable solution means the CH15 can always be on hand for the unexpected.”

The CE approved CH15 compliments Avon Protection’s leading respiratory protection portfolio, adapting proven technology to create their most compact CBRN protection device to date.

Commenting on the launch of the CH15, James Wilcox, President – Military, at Avon Protection, said:

“Capability and threats are always evolving, at Avon Protection we are continuously working with our customers worldwide to ensure we design, develop and deliver world leading solutions to ensure they always have the right protection available no matter what the threat.”

 [CBRNe](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/cbrne), [Protection](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/protection)

       [![](https://cbrneworld.com/templates/yootheme/cache/d0/GMS595-1-d0d8505a.jpeg)](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1877:cbrn-operatives-to-benefit-from-radiation-monitors-developed-for-the-nuclear-deterrent-programme&catid=12)

##  [CBRN operatives to benefit from radiation monitors developed for the nuclear deterrent programme](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1877:cbrn-operatives-to-benefit-from-radiation-monitors-developed-for-the-nuclear-deterrent-programme&catid=12)

 Written by Zoe Rutherford on 10 March 2021.

A ground-breaking radiation detection technology developed to support the UK’s nuclear deterrent is being made available to nuclear, national security, policing and counter-terrorism organisations.

The GMS595 is a sophisticated gamma dose-rate monitor developed by British company JCS Nuclear Solutions alongside the Atomic Weapons Establishment (AWE).

It is the most sensitive gamma radiation monitor available and is capable of making fast and accurate measurements.

Unlike conventional gas-filled detectors, the technology used in the GMS595 is not affected by temperature or pressure and does not need time to ‘warm up’. This significantly reduces the time the operator has to wait to have an effective detection capability from two minutes down to just two seconds. It also operates across a wide energy range, removing the need for the CBRN operator to maintain, take, and monitor multiple devices when in the field.

AWE, a delivery partner for the UK’s nuclear deterrent programme, has been successfully using the GMS595 monitor for more than two years to ensure safe gamma levels are maintained across its sites. The technology is now being brought to market through a licensing deal with Ploughshare Innovations, the Government technology transfer organisation that takes research created across government departments and commercialises it to deliver societal impact.

JCS Nuclear Solutions envisage a number of organisations could benefit by using the GMS595 over traditional gas-filled monitors. These include, for example, nuclear, police, fire and first responders in HAZMAT situations such as traffic accidents involving vehicles carrying a radioactive source. They could also potentially be used by homeland security CBRN units that respond to potentially radioactive threats.

Oliver Caunt, Managing Director at JCS Nuclear Solutions, said: “The GMS595 is a world-class monitor that addresses some fundamental challenges in the world of radiation detection and measurement, providing data from a single device that is highly accurate, consistent across a wide temperature range and requires no time to stabilise.

“This is truly ground-breaking technology that represents the best of British design and engineering. We are very proud of this project and value the enormous effort that the team at AWE have contributed to its success.

“Ploughshare Innovations have been instrumental in getting this technology over the line and bringing it to market for use by organisations in policing and security and in a wide range of applications in the nuclear, health and radiation clean-up industries.”

Hetti Barkworth-Nanton, CEO at Ploughshare Innovations, said: “We are excited to be partnering with JCS Nuclear Solutions to license its world-class technology and bring it to a wider audience. Ploughshare Innovations enables game-changing solutions from UK government investments in science and technology for the benefit of our economy and society as a whole, and this is another great example.

“This advanced, accurate and highly convenient product has the potential to revolutionise gamma radiation monitoring, turning technology developed for defence use into something that can be used by organisations that strive to protect and reassure the public.”

**Technical information**

The GMS595 uses a unique detector, back-end electronics and cutting-edge processing software to make fast and accurate gamma dose-rate measurements from very levels (nano Sieverts/hr)to the very high (1 Sievert.hr), providing an energy response from 32keV to 7meV.

It features:

- H\*10 ambient dose equivalence
- Plastic Scintillation Detector
- Dose-Rate Measurement Range 100nSvh⁻¹ to 999mSvh⁻¹
- Dose Measurement Range 100nSv to better than 1.75Sv
- Linearity of ± 10%
- 2 Modes of display: dose rate & total dose
- Temperature Compensated
- Operating temperature 0°C to +40°C
- Calibration procedure in accordance with GPG No14

**About JCS Nuclear Solutions**

JCS has provided nuclear radiation sensing and shielding solutions for over 40 years. Our products include hand-held and installed radiation monitoring systems, scintillation detectors and a comprehensive range of standard and novel radiation shielding products. All of our equipment is built and serviced in the UK where it has earned us our reputation for quality and reliability.

**About Ploughshare Innovations**

Ploughshare Innovations is the technology transfer organisation for the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl). It turns 'swords into ploughshares' by enabling businesses to gain access to defence and security technology developed by leading government laboratories. Ploughshare ensures Government technology is put to good use and benefits the UK, society as a whole, and humanity by applying innovative technology to improve people’s lives. Since its creation in 2005, the company has licensed more than 120 technologies and attracted £140 million of investment. [www.ploughshareinnovations.com](http://www.ploughshareinnovations.com)

 [Detection](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/detection), [CBRNe](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/cbrne), [Radiation](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/radiation)

       [![](https://cbrneworld.com/images/events/sponsor_logos/Kromek_Logo_Strapline_Pos.jpg#thumbnail=%2C&srcset=1)](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1876:kromek-awarded-nuclear-detection-contract-worth-a-minimum-of-960-000&catid=12)

##  [Kromek awarded Nuclear Detection contract worth a minimum of $960,000](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1876:kromek-awarded-nuclear-detection-contract-worth-a-minimum-of-960-000&catid=12)

 Written by Zoe Rutherford on 09 March 2021.

Kromek, a worldwide supplier of detection technology focusing on the medical, security screening and nuclear markets, announces that it has been awarded a contract worth a minimum of $960,000 in the Nuclear Detection segment, of which approximately $150,000 will be realised in the current financial year.

The Group will receive $260,000 to customise its CZT detector platform for integration into a new radiation detection product that will be available in Asia. This development work will commence immediately and be completed by the end of this calendar year. The Group will then supply the customised platform under a three-year contract, which is worth a minimum of $700,000.

Dr Arnab Basu, CEO of Kromek, said: *“We are delighted to have been designed into another product in the nuclear detection market. By incorporating Kromek’s CZT technology, our customers are able to differentiate their radiation detection products by offering a superior performance while maintaining a small footprint. We are also pleased that this long-term contract will contribute to our revenues for the current period as well as support our visibility over the next three years. We look forward to developing this customised solution and expanding our relationship with this product manufacturer.”*

 [Detection](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/detection), [Nuclear](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/nuclear), [Contract](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/contract)

       [![](https://cbrneworld.com/component/ajax/?p=image&src=%7B%22file%22%3A%22images%2FNews-Images%2FMike-Elleman.jpg%22%2C%22thumbnail%22%3A%22%2C%22%7D&hash=428ab4ed)](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1875:obituary-michael-elleman&catid=12)

##  [Obituary - Michael Elleman](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1875:obituary-michael-elleman&catid=12)

 Written by Zoe Rutherford on 08 March 2021.

Originally published in NK News

Michael S. Elleman, a world-renowned missile expert who spent much of his life trying to stop advances to North Korea’s nuclear program, died of cancer at George Washington University Hospital on Saturday, Feb. 20. He was 62 years old.

A former scientist-turned-U.N.-missile-inspector and analyst, Elleman was known for his gift of explaining North Korea’s complex missile systems to politicians, journalists and countless students and mentees in an approachable way.

“He was the most generous, kind and sharing colleague there could be,” said Mark Fitzpatrick, who was Elleman’s colleague and friend at the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) for more than 10 years.

After graduating from the University of California, Berkeley, Elleman spent more than two decades as a staff scientist at Lockheed Martin’s Research and Development Laboratory. He then took his expertise to the United Nations’ Monitoring, Verification and Inspection Commission, surveying weapons inspections missions in Iraq.

Elleman next moved to consulting firm Booz Allen Hamilton in Russia, where he worked on nuclear weapons reduction projects funded by the U.S. government. That’s where he met his wife, Tatiana, and the two later had a child named Nikita in 2010.

“Mike married at kind of a later age, but it was a marriage made in heaven,” Fitzpatrick said. “They loved each other a lot.”

Elleman joined the International Institute for Strategic Studies in 2009, having a senior role in its Bahrain office and expanding his reputation as a missile systems expert and analyst through prolific research and collaboration. He returned to Washington, D.C. and later became the IISS’ head of non-proliferation and nuclear policy in 2019.

It was at IISS that Elleman developed the role that many remember him for — people who worked with him said he was a consistent, smart, approachable source of analysis after missile tests.

“He had the gift of helping non-technical experts understand the technical aspects of missiles … The information they want to know and need to know,” said Daniel Pinkston, a lecturer at Troy University and one of Elleman’s many missile analyst peers. “He was a great teacher, which arguably is the greatest compliment anyone can have.”

According to others in the industry, Elleman’s interest and vigor for the subject shined through his small acts, like his “love” of creating missile payload range charts that became a great help to some of his mentees.

“He was able to teach me an incredible amount while also making me feel like a respected colleague and friend, which is a somewhat rare experience for an unpaid, undergrad intern,” said Andrew Coco, one of Elleman’s last research interns. “It speaks not only to his status as a top expert, but his incredible character as a person … That vote of confidence from a renowned expert in the field, who I looked up to, meant a lot at a time where I didn’t have a ton of \[confidence\] myself.”

Ankit Panda, a Stanton senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and contributing analyst to *NK Pro*, remembers Elleman as one of the first analysts to positively identify the North Korean “March 18 Revolution” liquid propellant engine as a Soviet RD-250 variant.

“That was an important finding at the time,” he said.

According to Fitzpatrick, Elleman’s identification of the engine brought on one of his toughest career challenges.

“His wife, Tanya, is Russian born — her parents still live in Russia … Internet trolls were attacking her and her father, and \[Michael’s\] first impulse was to protect them,” he recalled. “He pulled out of social media for a period of time. It was a traumatic experience for him. As the result of trying to be intellectually rigorous, he \[brought\] on attacks on his family.”

In addition to his wife and son, Elleman is survived by his mother, Irene, and his younger brother, Bruce, both of whom live in California, according to Fitzpatrick. His older brother, Daniel Jr., and his sister-in-law, Hiromi, both live in Oregon.

As word of Elleman’s passing began to surface online on Sunday, North Korea watchers penned tributes to a man they saw as a gentleman and a nonproliferation giant — a missile expert’s expert.

“In a room full of people, he was the one who stood up and gave her his chair when he saw a pregnant woman,” Fitzpatrick said, referring to an anecdote about Elleman shared online. “I thought, ‘That was Mike.’”

       [![](https://cbrneworld.com/templates/yootheme/cache/52/Dstl-Logo-52118484.jpeg)](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1874:the-date-for-the-23rd-chemical-weapons-demilitarisation-conference-has-changed&catid=12)

##  [The date for the 23rd Chemical Weapons Demilitarisation Conference has changed.](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1874:the-date-for-the-23rd-chemical-weapons-demilitarisation-conference-has-changed&catid=12)

 Written by Zoe Rutherford on 05 March 2021.

After careful consideration, DSTL have decided to postpone CWD 2021 until September 2021.

They know the importance their delegates place on a face-to-face event, which provides invaluable and unique opportunities to network and exchange information. DSTL remain determined to hold the conference this year and are developing a contingency plan to hold a virtual conference in the autumn, in case the rescheduled physical event cannot take place.

If you would like to register for CWD [click here](https://registration.livegroup.co.uk/cwd2021/)

**About the conference**

The 23rd CWD Conference is organised by Dstl, the science inside UK defence and security, on behalf of the Ministry of Defence. It’s a unique opportunity to hear from international experts and to work collaboratively to help achieve a future free from chemical weapons.

The organisers took the unavoidable decision to cancel CWD 2020 due to the worldwide coronavirus pandemic. However, planning has continued to ensure that, with your participation and support, CWD 2021 will be the best conference yet. The team aim to build on the success of CWD 2019, which was attended by more than 120 delegates from 13 countries, representing 53 organisations.

Their exciting programme, which includes new additions for 2021, takes into account the changing demilitarisation landscape, including new threats, technical challenges and the approaching completion of destruction of declared chemical weapons stockpiles. Its scope will include wider science and technology issues related to the Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC), including verification, chemical analysis and forensics. Abstracts on any of these, and related topics, may be submitted on our new online registration platform.

**Key dates (revised March 2021)**

- Abstract submission closes: 11 June 2021
- Presenter notification: 2 July 2021
- Registration closes: 10 September 2021

During the 2 days of presentations, panel sessions, poster displays and equipment demonstrations, there will be ample opportunity for discussion and networking. The conference is open to anyone with a relevant interest in CWD, and is attended by representatives of governments, industry, academia and the armed forces.

**Why attend CWD 2021**

This conference supports the global effort to eliminate chemical weapons and fosters co-operation through the exchange of information and ideas relating to safe disposal. CWD is the primary international forum for making valuable professional contacts in this field.

- Participate in this unique forum for our community
- Exchange knowledge and expertise
- Network with others in the field
- Meet international experts
- Collaborate with your peers
- Learn about innovative and exciting new solutions
- Share your technical challenges
- Discover and offer fresh thinking, new ideas, different approaches
- Contribute to a future free of chemical weapons

       [![](https://cbrneworld.com/images/News-Images/amsterdam-1150319_640.jpg#thumbnail=%2C&srcset=1)](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1873:explosion-at-covid-testing-centre-appears-to-be-intentional&catid=12)

##  [Explosion at Covid testing centre appears to be intentional](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1873:explosion-at-covid-testing-centre-appears-to-be-intentional&catid=12)

 Written by Zoe Rutherford on 03 March 2021.

An explosion outsode of a Covid testing centre in Bovenkarspel, just outide Amsterdam, appears to have been intentionally carried out.

According to reports the blast occurred at 6.55am before the centre opened and caused no injuries, windows were shattered and the metal remains of an explosive device were found at the scene.

Police spokesman Menno Hartenberg said: "We don't know yet exactly what exploded, the explosives experts must first investigate. What we're saying is that something like that doesn't just happen by accident, it has to be laid."

 [CBRNe](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/cbrne), [EOD](https://cbrneworld.com/component/tags/tag/eod)

       [![](https://cbrneworld.com/templates/yootheme/cache/c2/Russian-Flag-c2d050a7.jpeg)](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1872:sanctions-on-russia&catid=12)

##  [Sanctions on Russia](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1872:sanctions-on-russia&catid=12)

 Written by Zoe Rutherford on 03 March 2021.

The US has imposed sanctions on senior Russian officials over the poisoning of opposition leader Alexei Navalny.

 [Read more …Sanctions on Russia](https://cbrneworld.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=1872:sanctions-on-russia&catid=12)

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