Chemical Biological Radiological Nuclear and Explosives (CBRNE) Reconnaissance Sampling Kit

Military doctrine identifies a current and persistent need for initial and ongoing surveillance of tactical environments to detect, identify, and catalogue the prevalence and distribution of CBRNE hazards. While traditional methods and technology packages are moderately selective and sensitive, there is still a need for simpler, more rapid, deployable, cost-effective components, methods, and systems with greater sensitivity and specificity for CBRNE agents to facilitate presumptive identification of threat agents in a tactical environment. There continues to be a demand for a robust, simple, unified deployable diagnostic assay sampling kit capable of functioning across multiple environments and sample types while providing data equivalent to lab-based analytical systems. By conducting an aggressive review and evaluation of the knowledge base and marketplace we will provide a foundational knowledge base upon which an updated, unified recon sampling kit can be built. The knowledge gained and evaluated, within the context of mission requirements, will lead to and support enhanced sample collection and preservation; electronic sample tagging, tracking, and chain of custody; a unified technology format for the presumptive identification of CBRNE agents; and a rigorous quality assurance/training program.