The Port of Tampa Bay – the largest port in the state of Florida – is planning a test of a new weapons detection system designed by Liberty Defense Ltd. Liberty Defense’s security system – HEXWAVE – uses low power, 3D imaging technology, and artificial intelligence to scan crowds for weapons without the need for dedicated security checkpoints.
The system is built to be modular and scalable and may be used both indoors and outdoors. These characteristics also have the ability to enable a layered defense strategy for a venue – thus the ability to detect threats at the perimeter of the property without obstructing the movement of large groups of people.
Port Tampa Bay President and CEO Paul Anderson said, “having recently celebrated over one million cruise ship passengers in one fiscal year for the first time in our history, it’s imperative that we continue to seek opportunities to evaluate technologies like those developed by Liberty Defense. The potential of HEXWAVE’s high throughput is very appealing to us because it provides a new way to strengthen our security posture and ensure the safety of all passengers without slowing down the flow of visitor traffic. We are looking forward to working with Liberty Defense to test this new technology that will help us to stay ahead of potential threats.”
Beta testing is expected to begin later in 2019. Liberty will also beta test HEXWAVE at FC Bayern Munich’s Allianz Arena in Germany, Rogers Arena in Vancouver, British Columbia, Maryland Stadium Authority’s Camden Yards Complex, in the state of Utah, with the Virginia Division of Capitol Police, in Sleiman shopping centers, in a Hindu temple, in the Metro Toronto Convention Center, in Toronto Pearson International Airport, and with the University of Wisconsin Police Department.
“Port Tampa Bay will be an excellent partner on this project. The port will be able to provide Liberty with new learning opportunities by opening up access to the unique aspects of security for cruise lines, which have frequent vacationers traveling in and out of Florida,” said Bill Riker, CEO of Liberty Defense.
“The port environment will bring its own set of challenges from an operational perspective. Ultimately, the data’s integration into our product development efforts will be invaluable,” added Riker.
