WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) announced that radiation detection equipment to screen for nuclear and radiological material at the Port of Koper in Slovenia is fully operational.  The equipment was installed in the Republic of Slovenia under NNSA’s Second Line of Defense program, which works around the world to prevent the illicit trafficking of nuclear weapons and “dirty bomb” material.

“Detecting smuggled nuclear material is part of our overall efforts to prevent nuclear terrorism.  The Slovenian Port of Koper is a major crossroad between eastern and western Europe.  It is important that we have adequate detection there,” said NNSA Administrator Linton F. Brooks.

Since April 2005, NNSA has worked with the Customs Administration of Slovenia to install the radiation equipment and train the appropriate law enforcement officials to use the system and respond to alarms. 

“The enhanced screening capabilities at this port will improve the security of Slovenia, the United States, and all of our neighbors and allies,” said Brooks.  “This cooperative effort provides a strong defense against illicit trafficking of nuclear and other radioactive materials.”

The Second Line of Defense Program works with foreign partners around the world to equip border crossings, airports and seaports with radiation detection equipment.  The specialized radiation detection technology deployed under this program is based on technologies originally developed by NNSA laboratories as part of overall U.S. government efforts to guard against proliferation of weapons materials.

Established by Congress in 2000, NNSA is a semi-autonomous agency within the U.S. Department of Energy responsible for enhancing national security through the military application of nuclear science.  NNSA maintains and enhances the safety, security, reliability and performance of the U.S. nuclear weapons stockpile without nuclear testing; works to reduce global danger from weapons of mass destruction; provides the U.S. Navy with safe and effective nuclear propulsion; and responds to nuclear and radiological emergencies in the U.S. and abroad.

Media contact(s):
NNSA Public Affairs (202) 586-7371