The Defense Threat Reduction Agency is seeking innovative approaches to enhance the capability to detect and localize bioterrorism threats posed by rogue production of biological agents under a newly issued Request for Information (RFI) for “Biological Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance (BIO-ISR).”
The effort is focused on standoff detection and identification of substances used as precursors in bio-production processes or the resulting biological agents. For this RFI, standoff detection is defined as the ability to have a remote operator or sensor system capable of detecting the threat that is not in direct contact with the target agent or chemical compound. Examples would include strictly optical techniques, such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), as well as local reaction/remote detection approaches, such as target-induced chemiluminescence combined with remote optics.
DTRA anticipates the primary challenge to the development of effective technologies will be the capability to demonstrate the necessary area coverage, standoff range, agent/analyte selectivity and sensitivity in the presence of interferents. Sources with experience in developing materials and technologies which have characteristics related to this problem are highly encouraged to respond.
Mobile point detection approaches, such as robotic collection systems, or strictly theoretical concepts will not be considered under this RFI.
Further details are available under Solicitation Number: J9CXS14001.
