Domestic Preparedness and Homeland Security Audio Interviews

Among the topics discussed: Key differences between the U.S. and U.K. consequence-management philosophies; the resilience of the U.K.'s system (and citizens); resource allocations; and the role of "the voluntary sector."

The ARC's new operational framework for the Age of Terrorism. National Preparedness Month. Working relationships with local and state agencies. Pet sheltering, the national shelter data system, and the ARC blood program.

Their views on current and future maritime-security operations, the USCG's relationships with other agencies, new security standards being considered, and the service's interface with the Navy, CBP, and various port stakeholders.

The former FEMA administrator discusses the agency's reorganization process, the proposed establishment of a national catastrophic-insurance fund, FEMA's working relationship with the ARC, and the rationale for upgrading the agency to cabinet-level.

The Pulitzer Prize winner's knowledgeable appraisal of how two of the nation's largest metropolitan police departments - in New York City and Los Angeles - are coping with the unique and steadily growing threats posed by international terrorism.

His knowledgeable views on the Pandemic and All-Hazard Preparedness Act, BARDA, PHEMCE, ASPR authorities and responsibilities, and the challenges the biodefense market presents for the pharmaceutical industry.

His views on, among other mission-critical topics, the Guard's overseas deployments, organizational priorities, equipment requirements, Operation Jump Start, & the need to meet increasing commitments with the same or reduced resources.

His educated views on the "four essential components" of an effective public-health system, the need to integrate public-health preparedness responsibilities & resources, and the viability of the "one workforce" approach to public health.

Clark's views on the security improvements already achieved, and the areas in which a greater effort is needed. Also discussed: The USMS's Special Operations and Technical Operations Groups, and the support provided to state and local L-E agencies.

How the company's background in ISR and secure communications is being harnessed to provide precise solutions for specific customers. Also, the importance of local and statewide comm systems and the feasibility of creating an FAA-type agency for seaports.

The APHA leader's authoritative views on bioterrorism preparedness, the new challenges facing public-health officials in planning to cope with mass-casualty situations, the quarantine and isolation processes, & the threat posed by a pandemic influenza.

An in-depth focus on how the MMRS is carrying out the missions assigned under Homeland Security Presidential Directive 8, what changes have been made, where additional focus is needed, and how state and local agencies are affected.

His views on the enhanced capabilities made possible by the National Joint TERT Initiative and a host of related issues, including FEMA report requirements, the financial aspects of mutual-aid agreements, and the NCR's new wireless broadband network.

Her views on how Raytheon is leveraging its world-class technological capabilities to upgrade U.S. homeland security. Specific comments on several systems now in production or in the RDT&E pipeline.

Sharon discusses current CBRN projects, his office's support for the WMD-CSTs, the JRO role in technology experimentation, TIC/TIM threats, and the Joint Biological-Agent Detection System.