Integrate Explosives, Weapons And Contraband Detection Equipment To Improve Security At Embassies And Consulates

In general, governments appear to be expanding rather than abandoning diplomatic activity in high-risk countries, thus requiring the integration of data from multiple security systems. As such, IHS expects the EWC testing equipment market to continue to grow as governments look for comprehensive security solutions to protect embassies and consulates from ever-evolving threats.

In its latest study of the explosives, weapons and contraband (EWC) detection equipment market for critical infrastructure, IHS found that the embassies and consulates market is worth more than $53 million globally and will grow at a CAGR of 50% over the next five years. 7.3%. As foreign missions abroad continue to face terrorist threats, many governments have increased security funding for their embassies and consulates around the world.

In the United States, State Department funding for embassy security increased to more than $25.6 million in 2013 (up $2.8 million from 2012). IHS expects this growth to lead to the purchase of new luggage and packages, as well as personnel screening equipment integrated with other security solutions, including perimeter and access control systems. Historically, embassies and consulates around the world have used stand-alone personnel screening devices (i.e. fixed or hand-held metal detectors, and X-ray devices that are not integrated with other technologies), but this is starting to change. In the past, embassies and consulates were unaware of the value of the data captured by these systems; today, threats to embassies and consulates have become more sophisticated and require integrated security systems for better detection of threats earlier.

As comprehensive electronic warfare detection technology becomes more popular, embassies and consulates are looking for more data from their security systems to help analyze threats and develop countermeasures. As a result, manufacturers are designing systems that can be integrated, and older systems were never expected to be connected to larger security systems.

IHS also expects global opportunities to increase from 2014 to 2018, as several embassy projects near completion during this period will include new software to integrate personnel screening and luggage wrapping equipment with other security solutions.

In recent years, the United States, China and other countries have abandoned diplomatic missions in countries deemed too dangerous to conduct foreign affairs. Although diplomatic missions in some countries remain dangerous, countries have decided to reopen embassies and consulates to improve diplomatic relations. In 2014, for example, China announced plans to reopen its previously closed embassy in Somalia. Over the next five years, IHS expects projects like these to grow at a CAGR of 5.8% for the personnel screening market and 4.8% for the luggage and package market.

While attacks against diplomatic missions have increased over the past 14 years, casualty rates have fallen. IHS attributes this to better situational awareness and security measures at embassies and consulates. IHS anticipates that future use of integrated EWC detection equipment will help minimize the impact of terrorist attacks on diplomatic facilities, as multiple data points will increase situational awareness of diplomatic security services.