Radioactive Dispersion Devices (RDD): What are the Odds?

Since the tragic events of September 11^th, 2001 there has been apprehension that the United States may be ill-prepared to prevent future terrorist events. One source of concern is that a radioactive dispersion device (RDD) could be detonated at a vulnerable target anywhere in the nation. A RDD, also known as a "dirty bomb", is a conventional explosive packed with radioactive material. The explosion could disperse radioactive material over a wide area. The target could be an icon associated with American democracy and government, critical systems and infrastructure, a water supply, a nuclear power plant and others. Such an event could result in impact to citizens and communities on a number of levels: physical, economic, psychological and fiscal. The paper provides an overview of salient issues associated with RDD and offers perspectives on the vulnerability of the U.S., to attacks using such devices.