New technology could turn intermodal cargo containers into "smart" containers that can detect and report break-ins as well as broadcast their identity and contents. Customs officials hope this new technology will help reduce the threat of container-borne weapons of mass destruction.
The U.S. customs service is employing new systems and tools for detecting chemical and biological materials that may be hiding in shipping containers.
Analysts warn that the U.S. is more vulnerable to terrorist threats now than before Sept. 11, 2001 and will remain so until they can take a 'systems' approach to resolving vulnerabilities.
A real-time tracking system developed years ago for the Defense Department is emerging as a crucial component of an industry-driven cargo security network that aims to prevent terrorists from smuggling weapons of mass destruction into major ports.
The authors propose the development of a virtual border security program that would protect the U.S. from terroist use of the intermodal transportation system to attack the homeland.