US Customs and Border Protection Engages General Dynamics for AI-Powered Quantum Sensors
The United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has contracted General Dynamics to develop a prototype of advanced “quantum sensors” integrated with a sophisticated artificial intelligence database. This initiative aims to enhance the detection of illicit items and substances, including fentanyl, in vehicles, containers, and various devices, as outlined in a recent contract justification released last week in a federal register.
The justification states that this project will merge cutting-edge quantum and classical sensing technologies with AI, ultimately allowing CBP to deploy effective solutions throughout its operations. The agency aims to bolster national security by improving its ability to detect and mitigate the risks posed by illegal contraband entering the country.
The identity of the company developing this prototype remains undisclosed in the justification document, but it is underpinned by a $2.4 million contract with General Dynamics, which has been publicly available since December 2025. Despite inquiries, both CBP and General Dynamics have not responded to requests for additional comments.
This venture aligns with a broader initiative within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to embrace AI technologies, as indicated by a strategy memorandum published last year. The precise methods that the proposed quantum sensors will employ for detection remain unspecified, but the documentation foreshadows consideration of innovative detection techniques.
Earlier reports indicate that CBP conducted market research from April to October 2025, which included a July request for vendors to supply 35 handheld “Gemini” analyzers. These devices, offered by Thermo Fisher Scientific, are tailored to identify unknown chemicals and narcotics. Notably, previous DHS evaluations have tested the Gemini analyzers, suggesting their potential utility in border security operations.
The July inquiry emphasized the urgency of addressing the increasing inflow of opioids across US borders, with the request highlighting the devices’ capabilities to detect a broad spectrum of substances, including fentanyl and other controlled drugs. However, this initial request notably omitted any mention of an AI system or database.
In the contract justification, CBP referenced its intent to augment non-intrusive testing capabilities using advanced detection equipment. This approach is crucial, given the surge in opioid seizures at US borders, indicating a pressing need for enhanced surveillance technologies.
Technical assessments of the Gemini analyzers revealed their reliance on Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Raman spectroscopy, methodologies that serve to analyze chemical compositions. The former assesses infrared light absorption, while the latter focuses on light scattering interactions. Despite claims that a US company has developed a handheld analyzer, the efficacy of these devices in detecting fentanyl remains uncertain.
Moreover, while the agreement with General Dynamics hints at the use of advanced detection techniques, it remains unclear whether these will involve FTIR or Raman spectroscopy, or if entirely novel methods will be adopted. A recent paper suggested that certain portable devices, while efficient, may struggle with the detection accuracy of substances like fentanyl, highlighting the complexities involved in this type of chemical identification.
Although the document’s references to “quantum” sensors are vague, there exists a foundation of research in quantum chemistry that identifies viable methods for detecting fentanyl through cutting-edge technologies, such as quantum dots. These developments are expected to contribute to more effective detection systems in future border control applications.
As cybersecurity professionals consider the implications of such agreements and technological advancements, potential tactics and techniques from the MITRE ATT&CK framework may come into play. These could include initial access vectors related to supply chain attacks, persistence through integration of advanced analytical tools, and privilege escalation by leveraging sophisticated AI capabilities. Business owners must remain vigilant about evolving technological landscapes and their impact on national security and border management.
