Ep 58. Terror Tech: Military

Modern Marvels is a documentary television series that explores the history and technology behind some of the world's most fascinating inventions and achievements. In season 11, episode 58 titled "Terror Tech: Military," the show takes a deep dive into the military's use of technology to combat terrorism.

The episode begins by examining how the events of September 11, 2001, forever changed the way the military approached terrorism. The military had to adapt to a new form of warfare that involved asymmetric threats, such as suicide bombers, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and cyber attacks.

The show focuses on how technology has helped the military in combating these threats. For instance, the episode explores how unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), or drones, have been used to gather intelligence and conduct targeted airstrikes. The show features interviews with military officials who explain the operational benefits of drone technology while also highlighting the ethical and moral dilemmas associated with its use.

The episode also looks at how the military has developed sophisticated surveillance technologies to detect and prevent terrorist activities. For example, the show features the Persistent Ground Surveillance System (PGSS), which utilizes an array of cameras and sensors to monitor a wide area of terrain for potential threats. The PGSS has been used by the military in Iraq and Afghanistan to detect and track insurgents.

The episode then explores how the military has integrated biometric technologies into its operations. Biometric technologies involve analyzing physical and behavioral characteristics, such as facial recognition and gait analysis, to identify individuals. The episode features the Biometric Automated Toolset (BAT), which was developed by the military to help identify and track potential terrorists. The BAT has been used by the military in Iraq and Afghanistan to verify the identities of individuals at checkpoints.

The episode also touches on how the military has developed protective technologies to keep soldiers safe from terrorist attacks. For example, the show features the Enhanced Small Arms Protective Insert (ESAPI), which is a ceramic plate that can be inserted into a soldier's body armor to protect against high-velocity bullets. The ESAPI has been used by the military in Iraq and Afghanistan to protect soldiers from enemy fire.

Finally, the episode explores how the military has used advancements in cyber technology to combat cyber attacks. The show features interviews with military officials who explain how cyber attacks can be just as devastating as physical attacks. The episode highlights the military's efforts to develop cyber defenses to protect against attacks on military networks and critical infrastructure.

In conclusion, Modern Marvels season 11 episode 58, "Terror Tech: Military," provides an insightful look into the ways in which technology has been used to combat terrorism. The episode highlights the military's use of advanced technologies such as drones, surveillance systems, biometric tools, protective gear, and cyber defenses. The show features interviews with military officials who provide an inside look into how these technologies are used in the field and the challenges involved in their deployment. Overall, this episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in the intersection of technology and national security.