Testing Technology
durations to accomplish planned T&E stay ahead of the game. What we need to
events, fix system deficiencies, execute convey to our worried public is that the
risk-reduction strategies, and report results game is more about strategy than speed.
to decision-makers. Because testing The London Bomb Plot was not a race-track
processes are tailored to each specific starter gun, but a timer bell in a chess
device, evaluations may last as little as a few match. Terrorist threats are not impetus to
days (for unsuccessful demonstrations of run, but signals to plot our next moves. The
immature technologies) to as many years as technologies in Being Tested-land are
the device is in service. OT&E can last as long getting ready to play, but until they prove
as the life of the technology, with Follow-On themselves, through the government’s
tests being conducted after system rigorous testing schedule, the devices will
modifications, and to continually develop the remain on the bench. We don’t want third-
operating procedures for the system as other string players on the field anyway – not
security measures evolve around it. when the stakes are so high.
At any given point, hundreds if not
thousands of technologies, devices, the privacy issues will pick up and try
software packages, process improvement again. In this way, we ensure that our line
plans, etc., are forging their way through of defence is the strongest and most
the Acquisition Life Cycle. Not all will make efficient it can be. Brick by brick, through
it; the Darwinian process will ensure only trial and error, we’re building layers in a
the fittest survive to serve in the aviation fortification that evolves as needs change The author is a technical writer for National
security effort. But the weaker and new technologies are developed. Safe Skies Alliance.
technologies do not necessarily die out The wall will remain unfinished, and will
either. Many re-enter the cycle later, always be vulnerable. This is not a criticism For more information about National Safe
improved and stronger for their but a statement of the nature of aviation Skies Alliance, please visit our website at
experiences. The shoe scanners that have security. Recognising that fact, it then
www.sskies.org, contact Tom Jensen at
been in and out of the media spotlight, and follows that continuous improvement
tom.jensen@
sskies.org, or call +1 865-
backscatter X-rays that can’t seem to beat through continuous testing is necessary to 970-0515.
Aviationsecurityinternational April 2008
www.asi-mag.com 13
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