DRDO’s explosive detector to plug security gaps

Vijay Mohan

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, April 19

A new portable explosive detection device developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) can help plug in vital gaps in security at places facing a high-threat perception.

“Preemptor”, the hand-held device can detect solid as well as liquid explosives from a stand-off distance of 5 metres. It has undergone evaluation trials with the paramilitary forces.

Experts say liquid explosives are harder to detect than conventional solid explosives and require specialised equipment. This issue is now being addressed by security agencies and appropriate equipment is being installed at sensitive places such as airports and other high-profile establishments.

Designed by DRDO’s Laser Science and Technology Center (LASTEC), Preemptor is claimed to be the first-of-its-kind device in terms of its software used for online analysis and identification of targeted material in stand-off mode. It provides audio alarms as well as text information simultaneously.

DRDO scientists say it can detect different types of explosives such as TNT, TATP, DNT, RDX and HMX within 10-12 seconds and the system has potential application in screening unattended explosive devices, liquid explosive in bottles and other explosive material in the form of powder, pills or pellets.