Port of Valencia Becomes 2nd Spanish Megaport with Radiation Detectors
On September 27, 2010, the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) announced the successful initiation of operations of radiation detection equipment at the Port of Valencia in Spain, installed as part of NNSA's nonproliferation Megaports Initiative.1
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Specialized Equipment Now Scanning Containers for Smuggled Nuclear or Radiological Materials
Installed in cooperation with the U.S. Embassy in Madrid, Spanish Customs, and the Port Authority of Valencia, the specialized equipment will help the Port of Valencia scan all import and export containers passing through the port for the presence of dangerous nuclear and radioactive materials.
NNSA states that it installed and tested the radiation detection equipment and associated communications system and provided training on equipment operations. Spanish Customs is now operating that radiation detection equipment and assessing and responding to radiation alarms.
Valencia Joins Algeciras as 2nd Operational Megaport in Spain
Valencia is the second port in Spain to become an operational Megaport, following the start of operations at the port of Algeciras in 2006. Over the next three years, NNSA will continue to work with Spain to provide continued training and sustainability support.
Similar Equipment Installed at More than 31 Megaports Around World
This effort is part of the NNSA’s Second Line of Defense (SLD) Program, which works collaboratively with foreign governments at border crossings, airports, seaports and other points of entry to install specialized radiation detection equipment and associated communications equipment. The SLD Program also provides training to host government border guard officials and other personnel to detect smuggled nuclear and other radioactive materials. NNSA has installed similar equipment at more than 230 sites and at 31 Megaports around the world.
1NNSA’s Megaports Initiative aims to strengthen the capability of foreign governments to deter, detect, and interdict illicit trafficking in nuclear and other radioactive materials transiting the global maritime shipping system. The Megaports Initiative provides radiation detection equipment, training, and technical support to key international seaports to scan cargo containers for nuclear and other radioactive materials.
Second Line of Defense fact sheet is available here.
(See ITT’s Online Archives or 09/21/10 and 06/17/10 news, 10092115 and 10061715, for most recent BP summaries of other Megaports Initiative developments.)