Al Qaeda frogmen sound like one of the more exotic terrorist threats—but Homeland Security chiefs are preparing, just in case. Last month the Coast Guard launched a special program to train members of its seagoing SWAT teams how to protect U.S. ports against scuba-diving attackers. Members of Coast Guard commando teams based at 12 ports on the U.S. coastline will be taught underwater fighting techniques and how to use secret weapons. NEWSWEEK has learned that team members will try to master the proper use of “entanglement nets.” The nets are meant to be thrown over an underwater intruder, who then becomes ensnared in the mesh. The commandos are also supposed to be taught how to operate special sonar the Coast Guard is developing that should be able to tell a diver from a dolphin or seal. Sonar rigs will be deployed at strategic locations so they can be rapidly set up around ports or ships in the event of specific threats. Commandos will also get access to a special underwater sound system to send out verbal warnings to underwater intruders. Full Story
About OODA Analyst
OODA is comprised of a unique team of international experts capable of providing advanced intelligence and analysis, strategy and planning support, risk and threat management, training, decision support, crisis response, and security services to global corporations and governments.