Volpe Center Highlights
National Security
Focus |
Safety |
Mobility |
Human and Natural Environment |
Economic Growth and Trade |
National Security |
Published and Presented
Advance the nation's vital security interests by ensuring that the transportation system is secure and available for defense mobility and that our borders are safe from illegal intrusion. |
Automated Border Crossing Inspection System (INS)
In support of the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS), the Volpe Center's Safety and Security Systems Division recently completed development and installation of a prototype automated immigration inspection system. It is being deployed at the U.S. - Canadian border in Scobey, MT and is now open for use by the public. It enables local residents to cross the border in either direction during the port's non-business hours. The system, which is the first of its kind, is called an Automated Permit Port (APP). It uses voice verification to authenticate the identities of enrolled persons, and resembles a roadside telephone next to a gate. Participants enter their personal identification number, and say their access phrase. If the entries are correct, a receipt is dispensed, and the gate opens. The system is also equipped with a video transmission and communications capability. If an APP participant has difficulty using the system, he or she can contact directly the nearest 24 hour port in Raymond, MT. An inspector there can operate a pan-and-tilt camera to inspect the entrant and vehicle. If satisfied that the person in Scobey is admissible, the inspector can open the gate remotely. Many of the system's features are the result of technology transfers from security systems developed for the U.S. Department of State, and the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. INS and Canada Customs plan to deploy similar systems at various ports of entry throughout the Northern U.S. border.
Completion of Telecommunications Security Requirements (FAA)
The Volpe Center, in support of the FAA Telecommunications Security Working Group (SECWG), has completed documentation of the overall security requirements for FAA automated information systems (AIS) and telecommunication systems. This project was part of a cooperative effort between the Center's Safety and Security Systems Division and the Telecommunications Division to provide the FAA with technical support in its telecommunications strategic planning process. The SECWG report, "FAA AIS and Telecommunications Security Functional Requirements," interprets existing FAA orders, federal guidelines, and public law to aid system developers and engineers in applying appropriate security measures to new and existing system architectures. The SECWG is comprised of telecommunications experts representing information security stakeholders in the FAA.