Interview with Robert Vitrikas from the National Ground Intelligence Center on Countering the IED Threat Network

New York, NY– December 7, 2010 – The threat posed by improvised explosive devices (IEDs) is the greatest threat facing American and NATO Forces today. Reports have shown that between 70-80% of troop casualties are caused by IEDs and that 2010 has been the deadliest year for US troops in Afghanistan since the war began.

In keeping with these developments, Robert Vitrikas, Program Manager for the Counter Improvised Explosive Device Targeting Program (CITP) at the National Ground Intelligence Center (NGIC) spoke with IDGA’s Senior Editor Nick Yonker on the latest at CITP and ongoing work to combat IED threats. He details what he sees to be the biggest challenge U.S. Forces face in battling the IED threat network. In addition, Mr. Vitrikas also gives his insight into what the future holds for Counter-IED programs for the military in the next decade.

The Podcast has been made available here.

Mr. Vitrikas will be speaking at IDGA’s 4th Annual Counter IED Summit taking place January 24-27, 2011at the Crystal Gateway Marriott, VA. For more information on attending IDGA’s Counter IED Summit, and to see a full list of subject matter, please visit:www.CounterIEDSummit.comor contact Alexa Deaton at alexa.deaton@idga.org.

The Institute for Defense & Government Advancement (IDGA) is a non-partisan information-based organization dedicated to the promotion of innovative ideas in public service and defense through live conferences and events. We bring together speaker panels and events comprised of military and government professionals while attracting delegates with decision-making power from military, government, and defense industries.

In addition to our live events, IDGA also offers an online community dedicated to providing defense industry professionals with breaking news, business opportunities, introductions, podcasts, webinars, and presentations from key industry leaders. Members of our online community are able to extend their live event experience and interact with the defense industry by leveraging the opportunity to network, share ideas, best practices, and business solutions.

For more information, please visit http://www.idga.org.

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