New Technology Aids In Columbia Shuttle Disaster Recovery

The Columbia Shuttle disaster requires both manpower and technology to find and recover the debris scattered across the southern United States. Raytheon is assisting in the recovery with a brand new, hi-tech SUV - The First Responder.

Because of the scarce communication during the 9/11 disaster, the vehicle was developed to allow multiple emergency crews to communicate instantly with one another. Public safety agencies can stay connected and respond faster in emergencies. This SUV is equipped with a satellite transmitter/receiver and keeps the lines of communication open anywhere, anytime.

Here's What it Does:

Unified communications without replacing, modifying, or upgrading radios or infrastructure equipment Interoperability by linking incompatible radios, providing:

• Direct communications to responders
• Interagency communication
• Cell phone connections
• Local emergency telephone communications at incident site

Comprehensive incident command software that aids in:

• Unit assignments
• Personnel accountability tracking
• Asset allocation
• Activity logging

Onboard wireless LAN that allows:

• Live video from the incident location to be transmitted to the Incident Commander, as well as local, state, and national officials
• An Internet connection for mapping and information retrieval
• Collaborative drawings and map annotation
• Scalability — from a basic unit to a fully capable system
• Quick and easy operation at “Ground Zero”
• Ability to add additional sensors or devices

Readiness for future developments, including:

• Biological detectors
• Chemical detectors
• Infrared cameras
• Record logging, audio and video recording, and database retrieval

It's $300,000.

FMI: www.thefirstresponder.com