When we think about modern warfare, we often imagine complex weapons systems, high-tech drones, and cutting-edge cyber warfare. But one of the most crucial, albeit less glamorous, components of military defence is something that can save countless lives before the first shot is fired: early warning chemical detection.
The Unsung Heroes of the Battlefield: Early Warning Chemical Detection
Written by Steven Pike on 03 October 2024
Airports: A Vulnerable Flank Against CBRN Attack
Written by Steven Pike on 23 August 2024
Airports have long been focal points for ensuring safety and security. Historically, the emphasis has been on preventing explosive or weapon-based attacks. However, the presence of Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) threats present a far more intricate challenge. Unlike traditional explosives, these threats are subtle, often invisible, and exponentially more difficult to detect.
CBRN Training: Schleswig-Holstein Fire Service Simulation Success
Written by Steven Pike on 08 August 2024
The Schleswig-Holstein State Fire Service School in Germany has transformed its approach to training incorporating Argon Electronics advanced simulation technology to significantly enhance the quality and safety of their CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear) response courses.
CBRNe Training: Enhancing Military and First Responder Capability
Written by Steven Pike on 18 July 2024
UK Military Personnel practice CBRN decontamination techniques using Argon Electronic’s CamSIM chemical warfare hazard training simulator
In the evolving realm of CBRNe threats, simulation technology is indispensable for training military and first responder units, offering realism, cost savings, and enhanced readiness against modern security challenges.
Gruinard Island and the Dark Harvest Commandos
Written by Steven Pike on 26 June 2024
Decades of secrecy shrouded Gruinard Island, laying off the western coast of Scotland. The island was deemed too dangerous to allow public access after it was contaminated during World War Two germ warfare experiments. In 1981, an unknown group calling themselves the Dark Harvest Commandos issued an ultimatum: clean up or face an Anthrax nightmare. This early attempt at bioterrorism serves as a reminder that such dangers still exist today.
CBRNe Capability: Better Use of Simulators in Training
Written by Steven Pike on 10 June 2024
While CBRNe capability has improved enormously, investment in training remains a lower priority than it should be. Improved use of CBRNe simulators in training is not only cost-effective but also provides agile, safe, and demanding training scenario solutions.
Chernobyl: Drawing a Line Under Disaster
Written by Steven Pike on 24 May 2024
Chernobyl's new sarcophagus took two decades to make. Bigger than Wembley Stadium and taller than the Statue of Liberty, it is intended to seal in the entire disaster site for 100 years. It’s an extraordinary engineering effort.
Mustard Gas: From Weapon of Terror to Cancer Cure
Written by Steven Pike on 09 May 2024
Mustard gas was first used as a weapon of terror bringing chemical weapons to the battlefield. However, the properties that made it an agonising killer also made it into the basis for a frontline cancer treatment.
British Army Fuchs 1 Returns to Frontline Service
Written by Steven Pike on 02 May 2024
The UK fleet of TPz Fuchs 1 vehicles procured hastily for CBRN reconnaissance duty in the first Gulf War has survived a number of defence cuts and has returned to service following an extensive capability regeneration and enhancement programme.
Idaho Falls: The First Nuclear Meltdown in America’s History
Written by Bryan W Sommers - SGM U.S. Army, Ret. on 11 April 2024
The explosion at SL-1 U.S. Army research facility near Idaho Falls in 1961 during the early years of nuclear power development was a grim and tragic reminder of the power and danger of nuclear fission. The accident resulted from a range of factors, including inadequate design, inadequate materials testing, and poor procedures and training.