AN/KAS-1A Chemical Warfare Directional Detector
The Chemical Warfare Directional Detector (CWDD) AN/KAS-1A system is a passive infrared (IR) imaging sensor that provides the capability for detection and identification of Chemical Warfare (CW) nerve agents. The CWDD uses spectral filters to detect IR radiation emitted by nerve agents and identify chemical agent attacks against battle group units, assault units proceeding ashore and assault forces in the vicinity of the landing area. Chemical warfare agent cloud detection and identification can be accomplished against a sky background for all conditions under which CW attacks may be expected to occur. Detection of CW activity against a land background can also be accomplished with some degradation of effectiveness. The CWDD may also be useful in periods of low-visibility or night area surveillance due to the characteristics of the infrared sensor. The CWDD operator can detect and obtain relative bearings to prominent land features or structures, and has the capability of detecting small objects floating on the water surface. The CWDD also has the capability to send the sensor's video detections to various locations on the ship, and receive video simulations for operator training.
Sources and Resources
http://www.fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/ship/weaps/an-kas-1.htm
Maintained by Robert Sherman
Originally created by John Pike
Updated Saturday, December 12, 1998 7:17:49 AM