Chemical Warfare Detectors

The Chemical Warfare Detectors program, outlined in Navy budget line item 0989, is a critical component of the Department of Defense's Joint Chemical and Biological Defense Program (CBDP). Its primary goal is to enhance the Navy's ability to detect, identify, and respond to chemical and biological threats in maritime environments. The program supports the procurement, installation, and sustainment of advanced detection equipment on Navy ships and shore facilities. This ensures fleet readiness and operational sustainability in chemical, biological, and radiological (CBR) environments. Funding for equipment procurement is provided through the Joint Service CBDP, while the Navy is responsible for installation, integration, and lifecycle sustainment.

The Joint Biological Agent Identification and Diagnostic System (JBAIDS) is one of the key systems supported under this line item. JBAIDS provides the capability to identify and quantify biological organisms and pathogens of operational concern, including those relevant to urgent operational needs such as the detection of influenza strains. The system is installed with refrigeration units to preserve sample integrity and is intended for confirmatory and prognostic purposes. The Navy's objectives for JBAIDS include ensuring rapid, reliable biological detection on ships and shore installations, as validated by the Chief of Naval Operations and relevant operational requirements documents.

The Aerosol Vapor Chemical Agent Detector (AVCAD), formerly known as the Next Generation Chemical Detector (NGCD), is another major focus of this budget line. AVCAD is designed to provide shipboard point detection of nerve and blister agents, enabling timely identification and response to chemical contamination. The system is funded through the Joint Service CBDP and supports the Navy's policy to maintain the highest level of fleet readiness in CBR environments. AVCAD installations are planned for both new and existing ships, with costs varying based on ship class, installation location, and specific ship conditions.

The Enhanced Maritime Biological Detection (EMBD) Upgrade Kit represents a significant lifecycle upgrade to the Navy's biological detection capabilities. EMBD is intended to replace the legacy Joint Biological Point Detection System (JBPDS) and incorporates improved hardware and software for more effective detection and identification. The inventory objective for EMBD upgrades is 114 shipboard installations, reflecting recent adjustments to include additional Littoral Combat Ships (LCS) due to delayed decommissioning. The upgrade process involves replacing specific line replaceable units, refurbishing legacy components, and ensuring optimal system performance post-installation.

Installation and integration activities for these systems are supported by discretionary and mandatory funding. Discretionary funds cover Fleet Modernization Program installations, training equipment, and new equipment training at shore facilities. Mandatory funds are allocated for readiness-related activities, as detailed in the Reconciliation Exhibit. Installation costs also include Design Service Allocation expenses, which fund engineering oversight, ship installation drawings, planning yard support, and other preparatory activities necessary for successful system integration.

Justification for the Chemical Warfare Detectors program centers on the need to maintain operational effectiveness and survivability in the face of evolving chemical and biological threats. The program addresses obsolescence issues in legacy systems, supports compliance with Navy CBRD policy, and ensures that detection capabilities remain current with emerging threats and technological advancements. The installation timeline and associated engineering activities are carefully managed to minimize operational disruption and maximize system reliability.