The US Department of Defense has begun the production of Aerosol and Vapor Chemical Agent Detector (AVCAD) systems for the joint forces as part of an effort signed in 2018.
AVCAD devices can identify and report traditional and complex aerosol and vapor threats in a certain area, protecting warfighters from toxic effects while sustaining operability in hazardous warfare.
The detector comes with a mountable wireless remote alarm, control and remote display units, as well as other integrations depending on user requirements.
122 Portable AVCADs Ordered
Under the project, the DoD will work with security screening firm Smiths Detection and 908 Devices to build 122 portable AVCAD systems for the US Army, Navy, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard.
Smiths Detection will include five fixed systems for surface vessels and eight kits for land vehicles.
“Smiths Detection has partnered with the Department of Defense to provide more than 91,000 Joint Chemical Agent Detector units over 16 years,” Smiths Detection President Inder Reddy stated.
“We’re honored to have been able to contribute to the development of next generation AVCAD devices that will help to keep our military and communities safe.”
“The development of this new technology is a testament to the incredible people at Smiths Detection and their dedication to making the world a safer place.”
Leveraging Advanced Mass Spectrometry
AVCAD systems ordered include 908 Devices’ High-Pressure Mass Spectrometry, a technology combining high-frequency electronics and micro-scale geometries for efficient chemical detection.
“908 Devices is pleased to continue working with the US Department of Defense and our partner, Smiths Detection, on this enterprise, multi-year program,” 908 Devices Chief Executive Officer Kevin Knopp said.
“Being selected for this limited production phase validates our technology as a new standard for chemical detection and we are truly honored to have a role in protecting our US military.”
The project’s next phase will cover production verification and multiple service operation testings, the companies wrote.