Raytheon working on Subterranean Surveillance project
Raytheon is working on a DARPA Subterranean Surveillance project to create new methods for detecting buried explosives using synthetic biology.
Under its DARPA contract, Raytheon is working with Worcester Polytechnic Institute to programme two bacterial strains to monitor ground surfaces for explosive materials.
The first strain will detect the presence or absence of explosives buried underground. If the first strain detects explosives, the second strain will produce a glowing light on the ground’s surface. Remote cameras or UAS can then be used to survey large areas for the tell-tale luminescence.
The Subterranean Surveillance programme is one example in which advances in synthetic biology are being used to develop sensors that can reveal a variety of subterranean phenomena at a distance. Synthetic biology combines principles of electrical engineering with computer science to modify DNA.
Allison Taggart, principal investigator for the Bio Reporters for Subterranean Surveillance program at Raytheon BBN Technologies, said: ‘We already know that some bacteria can be programmed to be very good at detecting explosives, but it’s harder underground. We’re investigating how to transport the reporting bacteria to the required depth underground, and then pushing the luminescence up to the surface so it’s easily visible.
‘Using bio sensors underground could help us save lives as well as detect threats to air quality and the water supply. The modular design of the system we’re developing will allow us to swap in different components as needed to detect various kinds of threats and contaminants.’
You may also like
More from Land Warfare
-
![NATO demonstrates equipment and prototype innovations in Crystal Arrow Exercise]()
NATO demonstrates equipment and prototype innovations in Crystal Arrow Exercise
The Crystal Arrow Exercise is being used by NATO as a way to put new equipment such as uncrewed ground and aerial vehicles into the hands of alliance users, particularly Latvian and Baltic forces.
-
![UK finally signs $1.35 billion British Army howitzer deal but with scaled-back numbers]()
UK finally signs $1.35 billion British Army howitzer deal but with scaled-back numbers
The deal will provide the British Army with five times the number of guns it currently operates as an interim measure, but it still leaves the force with comparatively fewer weapons than partner forces.
-
![CSG’s new CFL-120 Karpat medium tank demonstrates move to modularity]()
CSG’s new CFL-120 Karpat medium tank demonstrates move to modularity
Built using proven parts across three countries, the CFL-120 uses a Turkish chassis, an Italian turret and Czech integration to reflect a modular approach to tank design.
-
![Team LionStrike fleshes out UK Land Mobility Programme bid]()
Team LionStrike fleshes out UK Land Mobility Programme bid
At an industry press day this week, Shephard's Christopher Foss looked more closely at Team LionStrike's line-up.
-
![NATO boosts uncrewed usage and shifts on concept of operations based on lessons learned from Ukraine]()
NATO boosts uncrewed usage and shifts on concept of operations based on lessons learned from Ukraine
The war in Ukraine remains a focus of procurement, concepts of operation, tactics and training for NATO countries. The Crystal Arrow Exercise in Latvia, ongoing until 15 May, is a reflection of this.
-
![SAHA 2026: Armour, artillery and autonomous systems on display]()
SAHA 2026: Armour, artillery and autonomous systems on display
The array of platforms on display at SAHA 2026 showcased the diversity of equipment now provided by the Turkish defence industry.
