Chilean prisons are struggling with escalating overcrowding, challenging authorities’ control as the prison population swells. After a period of decline, the number of inmates has risen for 25 consecutive months, reaching 54,766 by February 2024, which is 131% above facilities’ intended capacity. According to Chile’s Justice Minister Luis Cordero Vega, this rapid increase is putting severe pressure on the prison system. Despite being lower than some neighboring countries like Brazil and Peru, the overcrowding in Chilean prisons is more severe than in Argentina, based on figures from the World Prison Brief. Fortunately, advanced security company Liberty Defense Holdings (TSXV:SCAN) (OTCQB:LDDFF) is providing innovative solutions that utilize AI and radar imaging to enhance security in Chile’s prison system. Other technology companies like L3Harris Technologies (NYSE:LHX), Leidos Holdings (NYSE:LDOS), Evolv Technology (NASDAQ:EVLV), and Xtract One Technologies (TSX:XTRA) (OTCQX:XTRAF) are also contributing their expertise to improve security in various fields.
offers advanced security solutions for detecting concealed weapons in busy areas like airports, stadiums, and schools. The company’s flagship product, HEXWAVE, provides discreet and scalable protection using cutting-edge radar imaging technology licensed from MIT. Additionally, Liberty has expanded its portfolio to include millimeter wave-based body and shoe scanning technologies. With a commitment to community safety, Liberty aims to provide peace of mind through superior security solutions.
On May 8, Liberty Defense announced the sale of its HEXWAVE system to a juvenile correctional facility in Santiago, Chile, with plans for deployment this summer.
HEXWAVE, Liberty‘s advanced threat detection system, employs AI and low-power radar imaging to swiftly detect concealed threats including metals, non-metals, plastics, and powders without physical contact. The system has been successfully deployed across various sectors, including aviation, courthouses, labs, prisons, and government facilities.
Setronix Chile S.A., a renowned security firm with three decades of experience, will handle deployment and maintenance. Strategically located at Arturo Merino Benítez Airport, Setronix is well-equipped to support security operations in Santiago and beyond.
SENAME, a Chilean government agency dedicated to juvenile justice and reintegration, prioritizes safety for adolescents and young offenders aged 14 to 17. HEXWAVE offers a safe and efficient screening alternative to traditional transmission x-rays, enhancing security measures at the facility.
“This is an important award for Liberty as we expand our product capability to Latin America,” said Bill Frain, CEO of Liberty Defense. “We won the tender given the HEXWAVE’s mobile platform and ability to safely and efficiently screen for a broad range of threats and prohibited items for the safety of all within the correctional facility. We are confident this will lead to more applications throughout Chile.”

Tech Companies Secure Key Contracts and Designations
L3Harris Technologies (NYSE:LHX) has been awarded a contract by Millennium Space Systems, a Boeing Company, to manufacture eight infrared payloads for the Space Development Agency’s (SDA) FOO Fighter program. The FOO Fighter satellite system aims to evaluate innovative technologies for missile defense, integrating high-quality fire control sensors into a flexible prototype constellation. These satellites will form a standalone program focused on tracking specific threats not covered by the current tracking constellation.
Leidos Holdings (NYSE:LDOS) has landed a major contract from the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) Exploitation Services Program, known as Maru. Valued at $206 million over five years, Maru aims to enhance geospatial processing for increased efficiency. Leidos will provide mission software development, sustainment, technology insertion, testing, and deployment of analytical capabilities to support analysts and data scientists. These systems are crucial for NGA’s daily operations, covering imagery, geospatial analysis, and data science. Leveraging its expertise in mission software and technology-enabled services, Leidos is set to bring innovation to the geospatial community.
Evolv Technology (NASDAQ:EVLV) recently announced a partnership with Cape Fear Community College. The Wilmington, North Carolina school employs Evolv Express® to screen visitors at the main entrance to the Wilson Center, its performing arts venue. Since 2019, the college has relied on Evolv weapons detection tech, switching from outdated screening methods after witnessing Evolv in action at Lincoln Center, NYC. Initially using Evolv’s earlier screening system, the college upgraded to Express in 2023. Express, combining sensor tech with AI, distinguishes threats from everyday metal items, allowing smoother guest entry compared to manual checks and hand wand screenings previously used.
Xtract One Technologies (TSX:XTRA) (OTCQX:XTRAF) announced that its Multi-Sensor-Gateway portfolio received the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) SAFETY Act Designation as a Qualified Anti-Terrorism Technology (QATT). This recognition highlights its effectiveness in safeguarding public spaces against modern threats. Xtract One’s technology is now a preferred choice for major sports leagues like the NHL and MLB, meeting stringent security requirements. Their innovative solutions ensure safe venue entry and address evolving security needs while providing seamless throughput for patrons. This designation solidifies Xtract One as an industry leader committed to developing advanced security technology for optimal patron experiences.
recently announced the delivery of multiple HEXWAVE units to a major airport in Canada. These units, known for their advanced threat detection capabilities, will bolster security by identifying various items, including metals, non-metal threats, liquids, and plastic explosives. Moreover, Liberty Defense is globally, shipping HEXWAVE units to Amsterdam and Subic Bay Airport, showcasing their commitment to international collaboration and seamless integration with existing security systems.

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