Traditionally, CBRN weapons have been manufactured for use on the battlefield. In recent years, this threat has changed from CBRN weapons to include Toxic Industrial Chemicals (TICs). The threats posed by these materials has shifted from military use to assassinations or release into a local population – this changing threat requires cutting edge detection systems. Specialised companies, such as Smiths Detection, can assist in the development of CBRN detection systems to help defend against them.

How has the CBRN threat changed?

Recent years has seen a rapid evolution of the CBRN threat to militaries and civilian populations. Part of these changes has been the broadening of threats and the way that they can manifest in either war or peace. There are well-establish detectors that mitigate risks from classic CBRN weapons, like the Smiths Detection Lightweight Chemical Detector (LCD) or the BioFlash Biological Detector. Such detectors have been used in a wide variety of missions and are proven tools relied upon by defence and emergency agencies around the world. These instruments are frequently updated and enhanced in response to the continued development of new Chemical & Biological Warfare Agents. Adding enhancements such as the XID adapter to the LCD to increase its range of detection is one such example. XID – eXtended IDentification; an accessory to the LCD that turns it into a trace residue detection system, and expands the chemical detection range to include explosives, Chemical Warfare Agents (CWAs), and narcotics.

Recent years has seen a rise in the use of CBRN weapons to commit assassinations and terrorist organisations have long been interested in developing and using them. This brings CBRN weapons into the civilian space which needs a military/civilian response.

Also, due to increasing industrialisation, there is a prevalence of TICs (Toxic Industrial Chemicals) at industrial sites which are often located close to local populations. This brings an increased risk of an accidental or deliberate release and the ensuing casualties and chaos. This means that both militaries and first responders need to be educated, trained and equipped to deal with TIC threats.

Finally, the development of the Internet of Things and Artificial Intelligence amongst other technological advances makes the development of novel CBRN weapons easier and increasingly challenging to detect. Consequently, responders need to be equipped and trained with the best possible CBRN systems, not just detectors, that allow for greater understanding and situational awareness of the threat.

What does this mean for CBRN detection systems?

There is and always will be a requirement for world-class CBRN detectors. Defence and civilian defenders need to implement integrated systems that encompass detection through to threat management to address changing threats. At the core of any CBRN detection system are high-performance detectors. Ideally, one detector that is employable in a range of roles such as body-worn, vehicle, UAV or UGS mounted. These detectors need to be upgradable to meet future threats or specific requirements and supported by an experienced partner such as Smiths Detection.

Detectors need to be integrated into a network that allows their information to be quickly shared with a warning and reporting capability, such as the UrbanAware programme, to provide detailed information on the threat. Accurate threat modelling based on topography, terrain-use and weather data will provide a commander with the necessary information to make correct and timely decisions.

Crucially, any system needs to share information in real-time. Effective situational awareness is central to countering threats effectively. It will lower the secondary effects of CBRN weapons and TICs by reducing the physiological and psychological burden on personnel by keeping them out of protective equipment for longer or even totally.

The ability to create a system that does all this requires a solutions provider, like Smiths Detection, which has the depth of knowledge and experience to deliver complete end-to-end systems.

Challenges to creating a modern CBRN detection system

In creating a modern CBRN detection system there are many hurdles. Some of these are CBRN specific but others are generic to the way that organisations operate effectively.

CBRN-specific examples include procuring the best systems in good time. It is highly unlikely that any one nation will produce the best detectors. Collaborating with companies to acquire or develop such technology is necessary. CBRN products are manufactured to meet demand, forward planning will secure the best detection systems before a crisis emerges and everyone suddenly wants them. Creating, equipping and training the right CBRN forces including generalists competent to operate in such an environment is also necessary.

There are many non CBRN-related factors that are important for enabling effective future CBRN detection systems. For example, having an open mind. Who would have created the Salisbury poisonings or COVID-19 as credible exercise scenarios? Linked to this is incorporating diverse and critical thinking and creating a culture that understands and is comfortable with complexity. Well trained specialists and generalists who can think creatively provide solutions to highly novel problems.

Finally, effective exercising and rehearsing is important as it will make any response easier. Preparing a response is made easier when highly effective modelling and simulation allows for many of the points above to be addressed. The UrbanAware software allows scenarios to be rehearsed, possibilities examined, and plans drawn up which form the start point for any real response. Such systems will assist civilian or military personnel in preparing a response to a CBRN or TIC threat.

Conclusion

A modern, effect CBRN detection system is so much more than just the latest detectors. It is about creating an integrated system that provides effective detection in any scenario. Such a system consists of hardware, software and traditional skills such as training. But there are many emerging skills that should be truly embraced to be genuinely effective. Any adversary will not use CBRN weapons because they believe they can get away with it. Partnering with an expert, such as Smiths Detection will help defenders and civil agencies achieve a new layer of safety and securing, helping to make the world a safer place.

– The writer is Managing Director -India, Smiths Detection. The views expressed are of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views of Raksha Anirveda