NNSA opens nuke check monitor in Cyprus

WASHINGTON, Jan. 2 (UPI) -- The U.S. National Nuclear Security Administration has helped install a nuclear security monitor in a port on the Mediterranean island of Cyprus.

"The Department of Energy's National Nuclear Security Administration -- NNSA -- in cooperation with the Cypriot Customs Service, commissioned a newly upgraded portal monitor at Limassol seaport in Cyprus," the NNSA, an agency of the U.S. Department of Energy, said in a statement Dec. 12.

"The monitor will help detect the illicit smuggling of nuclear and radiological materials in cargo containers passing through the port," the NNSA said.

"Cyprus and the United States are working closely together to stop the smuggling of nuclear and radiological materials. This partnership plays a critical role in the global fight against illicit trafficking and proliferation of weapons of mass destruction," said Deputy Administrator for Defense Nuclear Nonproliferation William Tobey.

"A joint ceremony was held with Cypriot customs and the U.S. Embassy (on Dec. 12) to highlight the installation and operation of the radiation detection equipment provided by NNSA. The ceremony recognized the ongoing cooperation between the United States and Cyprus to prevent the trafficking of nuclear and radioactive materials," the NNSA said.

"Since 2004, NNSA's Second Line of Defense -- SLD -- program has assisted the Cyprus Customs Service in maintaining radiation detection equipment by providing new equipment and training that improves detection of nuclear and radioactive material in cargo at the port," the agency said.

NNSA said its SLD program "provides detection systems around the world to help combat nuclear proliferation and terrorism. SLD installs radiation detection equipment at strategic locations, and provides training in detection, identification, and interdiction of nuclear and radiological materials, as well as training in the operations and maintenance of the equipment."

"The specialized radiation-detection technology is part of the overall U.S. nuclear security program to guard against proliferation of weapons materials. It is part of the Bush administration's overall efforts in preventing the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction," the agency said.