U.S. Marines announce use of Cross Match biometrics in Afghanistan

The U.S. Marines are now using a mobile biometric capture device from Cross Match, calling it the Biometric Enrollment and Screening Device (BESD) that according to the army, has already enrolled over 19,000 persons of interest in the field.

Specifically, the Marines are using the SEEK II from Cross Match – the same device used to identify Osama Bin Laden.

Of the 19,000 persons of interest identified in Afghanistan with the SEEK II, the Marines say 300 have been placed on a watch list.  According to the announcement from the Marines, in the last year, more than 2,000 Marines and coalition warfighters have received training with the device.

The SEEK II records fingerprints, iris scans and a facial image.

At least 15,000 units have reportedly been shipped to military personnel around the world.

Reported previously, Cross Match also recently launched the newest device to its line of SEEK products: the Avenger. This new device incorporates Cross Match’s MOBS software, as well as a secure credential reader and communication options. This new iteration of the SEEK device is 40% smaller than the SEEK II and is capable of capturing stand-off dual iris and fingerprint images in direct sunlight.

In the last couple of months, Cross Match also launched its new ventures business unit, called Cross Match Ventures.

Article Topics

Afghanistan  |  Cross Match  |  facial recognition  |  fingerprint biometrics  |  iris recognition  |  Marines  |  military  |  SEEK