For U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), non-intrusive inspection (NII) technology has become an increasingly important tool in the facilitation of secure, efficient trade and travel. CBP’s NII capabilities include both large-scale and handheld X-ray and Gamma-ray imaging systems that permit the efficient and safe detection of contraband and threatening materials at ports of entry.
Modern NII solutions drastically reduce scanning times, increasing CBP’s ability to swiftly examine cargo and conveyances entering the U.S. In 2019, CBP agents performed 6.6 million NII scans, detecting 216,203 pounds of drugs, $3 million in undeclared currency, 1,655 guns, and 200 unauthorized migrants.
Congress has provided appropriations totaling $59M for NII at ports of entry in 2020, acknowledging the role NII plays in facilitating legitimate trade and travel. This follows approximately $500M budgeted for NII in FY2019.
Viken Detection, a company at the forefront of developing innovative NII technologies, was recently featured in articles published by Border Report and Freight Waves. The articles detail Viken’s recent award from CBP to implement four undercarriage X-ray scanners at two South Texas land ports of entry. These scanners, known as Osprey-UVX, provide real-time under-vehicle inspection imaging that allows officers to quickly and safely scan vehicles at the border.
CT Strategies supports providers of innovative solutions who seek to advance the CBP mission of enabling secure and efficient trade and travel.
