U.S.-Israel partnership targets homeland security technology development

Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) and Israel Ministry of Public Security (MOPS) officials are touting a partnership to aid homeland security technology development.

The Israel-U.S. Binational Industrial Research and Development Homeland Security (BIRD HLS) program has awarded White Salmon, Washington-based
Sagetech Avionics and Ciconia of Ness Ziona, Israel funding for two collaborative projects totaling $1.5 million.

Officials said the funds have been earmarked as a means of developing advanced first responders and mid-air conflict management system homeland security technologies in the areas of multimedia communications systems.

“The BIRD HLS program is tackling critical homeland security challenges shared by the United States and Israel through the joint development of innovative technologies that enhance public safety,” Kathryn Coulter Mitchell, DHS senior official Performing the Duties of the Under Secretary for Science and Technology, said. “We welcome the sixth year of partnership with the BIRD Foundation and the Israel Ministry of Public Security, supporting collaborative research and development between U.S. and Israeli companies to advance cutting-edge solutions that make both nations more secure.”

BIRD Foundation Executive Director Eitan Yudilevich said the BIRD HLS program attracts domestic and Israeli companies while encouraging synergies in developing solutions fulfilling homeland security needs in both countries.

“We look forward to continuing our work with DHS and the Israel Ministry of Public Security and to the next cycle in 2022,” he said.

Officials noted a call for proposals for the program’s seventh year is slated to be released in March 2022.