Counter Improvised-Threat Demonstration, Prototype Development, and Testing

The Counter Improvised-Threat Demonstration program is dedicated to developing technologies for detecting and neutralizing improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Its primary goal is to enhance the ability of deployed forces to accurately identify IEDs with minimal false alarms, thereby increasing the efficiency of route clearance missions. The program also aims to neutralize or mitigate the effects of IEDs while minimizing collateral damage. This initiative responds to current threats faced by U.S. forces and seeks to rapidly develop and deliver capabilities for IED detection and neutralization.

Coordination for the program involves the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering (USD/R&E) and the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA). It includes collaboration with various Army entities, such as the Command, Control, Computers, Communications, Cyber, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (C5ISR) Center. Oversight is provided by the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisition, Logistics and Technology. The technologies developed are intended for integration onto existing Department of Defense weapon systems.

Several specific technology demonstrations are part of this effort. These include initiatives like Radio Controlled IED Detection Technology Demonstration, which focuses on detecting radio-controlled IEDs using advanced network techniques. Another effort is the Anti-Armor IED Detection Technology Demonstration that employs high-resolution electro-optical/infrared sensors to detect anti-armor threats before detonation. Additionally, there are projects like Personnel Borne IED Detection Technology Demonstration aimed at identifying personnel-borne IEDs through a network of small sensors.

Future plans involve evaluating these technologies in varied environments such as arctic and jungle settings to ensure their effectiveness under different conditions. There is an emphasis on teaming unmanned aerial and ground systems to improve detection accuracy through data fusion techniques. The program continues to evolve with new efforts like Neutralization and Mitigation Technology Evaluation in Varied Environments set to begin in FY 2025, focusing on automating technologies capable of neutralizing complex IED configurations in diverse environmental conditions.