Detection of Nuclear Weapons and Materials: Science, Technologies, Observations

Jonathan Medalia | Congressional Research Service | 2010-06-04

Within the context of the treat that a terrorist group may aquire weapons of mass destruction, this report provides an overview of U.S. aquisition and development of technologies that are capable of detecting radiation produced by nuclear weapons. "Congress may wish to address gaps and synergisms in the technology portfolio," the report states. "Ongoing improvement in detection capabilities produces uncertainties for terrorists that will increase over time, adding deterrence beyond that of the capabilities themselves."