CBP Wants AI-Powered ‘Quantum Sensors’ for Finding Fentanyl in Cars

US Customs and Border Protection is paying General Dynamics to create prototype “quantum sensors,” to be used with an AI database to detect fentanyl and other narcotics.

United States Customs and Border Protection is paying General Dynamics to create a prototype of “quantum sensors” alongside a “database with artificial intelligence” designed “to detect illicit objects and substances (such as fentanyl) in vehicles, containers, and other devices,” according to a contract justification published in a federal register last week.

“This database and sensor project will integrate advanced quantum and classical sensing technologies with Artificial Intelligence and ultimately deploy proven concepts and end products anywhere in the CBP environment,” the justification document reads. “Under this requirement, CBP will take additional steps to enhance its ability to detect, and thus, significantly reduce the harms of illicit contraband entering the United States of America, thus bolstering national security.”

The document redacts the name of ...