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Defending the American Homeland

NCJ Number
193173
Editor(s)
Janice A. Smith
Date Published
2002
Length
114 pages
Annotation
This report contains specific proposals on how best to eliminate vulnerabilities exposed by the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001.
Abstract
The report addresses the need to protect critical infrastructure, improve civil defense, and increase intelligence and military structures in order to prevent future terrorist attacks and limit the effects should one occur. It presents top priorities for action at all levels of government, and describes measures to implement these priorities and make them operational. Top priorities include: (1) designating the Global Positioning System frequencies and network as critical national infrastructure; (2) enhancing the private sector's role in infrastructure protection; (3) instituting new rules to monitor more closely who or what is entering America's airports and seaports; (4) building a nationwide surveillance network for early detection of chemical, biological, or other attacks; (5) accelerating development of pharmaceuticals that prevent or limit the spread of toxic agents; (6) improving intelligence gathering and sharing; (7) strengthening visa approval and border security mechanisms; (8) protecting U.S. borders, coasts, and critical infrastructure with air defense and missile defense; (9) providing intelligence support for military operations; and (10) ensuring clear command and control of overseas anti-terrorism operations. Notes, tables, figures, appendix, selected bibliography