Cognitive Multi-Sensor Improvised Explosive Device (IED) Detection Technologies (COMIDT)

Due to the domestic availability of the materials needed to construct Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and the ability to quickly disperse them and inflict serious harm to our citizens, military, and allies, IEDs have become the weapon of choice for insurgents, terrorists and extremists. In fact, according to recent FBI Bomb Data Center data, over 70% of all homeland terrorist incidents in the United States involve the use of explosives and incendiary agents. These data also show over 3000 IED incidents within the United States each year with over 100 injuries, and dozens of fatalities. As a result of this dangerous and potentially rapidly growing threat to our homeland the US Government has been developing aggressive, multi-faceted Counter IED (C-IED) programs that include intelligence operations, strategic planning, training and, most relevant to this proposal, developing technologies to provide the professionals responsible for detecting IED threats the incipient threat information needed to proactively prevent an attack. This proposal is focused on analyzing available data to determine if a potential threat is emerging and provide the localization information to enable authorities to prevent an attack. This approach is particularly important to protect against vulnerabilities that would allow adversaries to attack our homeland. BENEFIT: Provide improved protection against potential IED threats within the United States.