Dec 02, 2011 09:29 am
Source: mcoba
Category: Nuclear Security/Nonproliferation

The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) today announced the completion of a table-top counterterrorism exercise at the University of Virginia. The exercise, called Cavalier Thunder, was the latest in the NNSA’s Silent Thunder series, which gives federal, state and local officials and responders critical, hands-on experience in prioritized alarm assessment and response, crisis management, threat assessment, emergency response, consequence management and post-contingency procedures in the event of a terrorist incident involving radiological materials. The Cavalier Thunder exercise involved a fictitious scenario involving radioactive materials. The University of Virginia’s expertise in both radiation technology and security were valuable contributions to the exercise, which also involved first responders from the city and state levels. Cavalier Thunder was also the first Silent Thunder exercise to be observed by a Canadian delegation. The table top exercises frequently accommodate international observers to facilitate the sharing of counterterrorism expertise and best practices with the global community. “These exercises are critical to improving cooperation among federal, state and local officials, and we welcome the opportunity to work with organizations like the University of Virginia to ensure effective planning, communication and response coordination,” said Deputy Under Secretary for Counterterrorism and Counterproliferation Steven Aoki. “NNSA’s investments in nuclear security provide the unique technical knowledge and capabilities that help protect our country against terrorist attacks.” Read the Full Article