Episode 256 • • 1:24:20 - 1:31:40
256: Cheerleaders for Science
Biometrics Task Force, BAT and HIID Systems in Theater
The Department of Defense is utilizing advanced biometric systems, including the Biometrics Automated Toolset (BAT) and the Handheld Interagency Identity Detection (HIID) system, in Iraq and Afghanistan. Lisa Swan of the Biometric Task Force explained that these "modalities" include iris, palm, and facial recognition, with plans to move toward DNA tracking. While currently used for "detainee operations" in military theaters, the technology is being positioned for friendly civilian applications such as accessing medical and financial records in the U.S.