Thai Authorities Begin Operation of Advanced Detection Monitor in Laem Chabang Port

April 26, 2012

Abstract:

On 16 December 2011, U.S. experts handed over the operation of new radiation detection equipment to Thai authorities in Thailand's port of Laem Chabang. The $1 million ''Spectroscopic Portal Monitor'' was given to Thailand as part of the U.S. Megaports Initiative, to enhance capabilities to detect illicit shipment of nuclear and other radioactive materials. Since 2009, 22 sets of primary radiation detection equipment have been installed in the Port. The new equipment offers a secondary detection capability and the ability to identify radioactive isotopes. According to Port authorities, so far, fewer than 10 illicit shipments have been detected, but none of them presented a major threat. The same monitors have also been installed in four other Asian ports, including Klang and Tanjung Pelepas in Malaysia, Kaohsiung in Taiwan, and Colombo in Sri Lanka.

Abstract Number: 20111031
Headline: Thai Authorities Begin Operation of Advanced Detection Monitor in Laem Chabang Port
Date: 16 December 2011
Bibliography: "Thailand equips Laem Chabang Port with modern nuclear detection system," Home Harbor, 16 December 2011, www.home-harbor.com
Material: N/A

This material is produced independently for NTI by the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies at the Monterey Institute of International Studies and does not necessarily reflect the opinions of and has not been independently verified by NTI or its directors, officers, employees, or agents. Copyright © 2011 by MIIS.

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This article is part of a collection examining reported incidents of nuclear or radioactive materials trafficking in or originating from the Newly Independent States.