Underwater security is an important part of total Homeland Security. Many recent events around the world, starting with t
he 9/11 attacks, have had a tremendous effect on security views and concepts around the world. Once, only military and governmental assets were considered legitimate targets for terrorists and hostile elements. Now, following these horrific attacks, it is clear that commercial and civilian high value assets also serve as targets for extremists.
The ongoing threat of terror attacks has produced an awareness of the need to protect critical marine and coastal infrastructure. While many of these sites operate security systems aimed at preventing unauthorized intrusion above-water, very few possess underwater surveillance systems. A well-known phrase says that a chain is only as strong as its weakest link. The underwater arena is too often that weak link. The commercial availability of underwater means of transportation, together with 21st century well trained and financed terrorists, suggest that all ingredients needed for underwater sabotage are in place.
The AquaShield DDS:
Building on its technical and operational experience in sonar and underwater acoustic systems for naval applications, DSIT has developed an innovative, cost-effective Diver Detection Sonar (DDS) system. The AquaShield™ DDS system is designed to protect critical coastal and offshore sites against unauthorized intrusion of divers, swimmers, SDVs (Swimmer Delivery Vehicles) and Mini Submarines.
AquaShield™ DDS performance and features have been especially designed to provide maximum security at lowest possible costs to the following sites:
• Naval bases
• Commercial ports
• Oil/Gas pipes, rigs and terminals
• Power plants
• Anchoring ships
AquaShield™ DDS can work autonomously to ensure underwater port security by protecting ports, harbors and sensitive coastal installations, or can be easily integrated with other sensors, such as radar and electro-optics, to create one comprehensive above and below water surveillance system. Cooperating with leading sensor manufactures, DSIT is in a position to offer a comprehensive Harbor Surveillance System (HSS) as well.
