Defense Group releases new CoBRA software

ALEXANDRIA, Va., Dec. 12 (UPI) -- Virginia-based Defense Group Inc. announced the release of a new version of its military first responder decision-support resource CoBRA software.

Officials say the CoBRA 4.2 software enables the emergency response industry greater speed and functionality in the accurate identification and response to chemical, biological, radiological and explosive threats.

"CoBRA 4.2 has many enhanced resources across the CBRNE (chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear or high-yield explosive) spectrum," Chris Boehm, CoBRA group vice president, said in a statement. "For example, CoBRA now includes a radiological exposure tool that provides critical exposure values and time limits based on current military, Department of Homeland Security and Occupational Safety and Health Administration doctrine, which will allow responders to instantly plan operations in a contaminated environment without exposing themselves to undue risk."

Defense Group's CoBRA, designated by the DHS as a qualified anti-terrorism technology, is currently in use at 2,500 first responder and emergency management agencies including the U.S. Army for use in Iraq.

"The new version includes a number of customizable features; Global Positioning System integration; access to the U.S. Coast Guard's CHRIS (chemical hazards response information system) chemical database; an improved radiological exposure calculator; and a tool for converting between various units of measure," the release said.