Sunday, April 1, 2012

FBI Combines Rapid DNA-at-a-Distance ID with Drone Technology

The FBI's rapid DNA at a distance identification (DAD-ID) technology is being combined with drone technology with the goal of instantly sequencing the genome of any person, anywhere in near real-time.

FBI's Rapid DNA-at-a-Distance ID (DAD-ID) Technology Program Continues Apace
The old DNA identification system took up to six weeks to analyze a DNA sample for criminal cases and that sample had to be taken, preserved and processed under laboratory conditions. Now the subject's entire genome can be sequenced in under 5 minutes without any physical sample at all, says Rehfeldt. "Our goal for felony case DNA searches is now 10 minutes, and in misdemeanor cases, it's 15 minutes," says Rehfeldt.

A record of all the genetic base pairs and detailed personal information about individuals analyzed by the new system will be maintained in the FBI's Clarksburg, WV facility.

"Deploying this technology on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV's) will provide obvious tactical advantages over earlier deployments which relied on rather conspicuous motor vehicles."

Asked of the feasibility of deploying the technology on space-based platforms, Rehfeldt responded, "What's your name, again?"