The development of capabilities in order to counteract CBRNe (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and explosive) threats is one of the priorities area in the field of security and emergency response. A lot has been done in this context but several gaps are still present when it comes to prevention, preparedness, response and recovery from both accidental and intentional CBRNe events. In addition, coordination and synergies amongst the involved actors needs to be enhanced in order to avoid possible duplications of solutions and procedures and to ensure the best possible complementarity.
The objective of the feasibility study is to assess the technical and economic viability of deploying services based on Satellite Communications, Satellite Navigation, Earth Observation data, and/or other space assets to support CBRNe operations (e.g. catering for detection and situational awareness, prediction, early warning and response planning) for the benefit of both institutional and commercial users. The study will eventually propose a roadmap for service(s) implementation and demonstration.
The feasibility study includes also an Option where ESA will work together with European Defence Agency to demonstrate the benefits that the National Stakeholder Communities (NSC) in charge of combating CBRNe threats in EU Member States can get from the utilisation of services integrating space and terrestrial technologies. The NSC includes different bodies engaged with the planning and execution of actions in response to CBRNe threats (e.g. Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Security and Justice, command and control forces). These entities can have different mandates according to the country in which they operate.
Each feasibility study will be eligible for 100% ESA funding, up to €250K, for nine months duration.
The available budget for each feasibility study addressing also the Option is up to €350K, 100% funded by ESA and EDA.