Abstract
Portable X-ray systems are critical tools for Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams responding to improvised explosive devices (IEDs), unexploded ordnance (UXO), and explosive remnants of war (ERW). The rapid evolution of conflict zones, such as Ukraine, where operators are dealing with drone delivered devices and munitions abandoned in trenches, has driven demand for imaging technologies that are fast, safe, and interoperable. This article discusses advances in Computed Radiography (CR) and Direct Radiography (DR) and how Scanna’s ScanSilc DR and ScanX Scout CR X-ray systems enhance workflow efficiency, operator safety, and forensic documentation. Features such as single-pulse and programmable pulse-train imaging, offline storage-mode acquisition, and secure mesh-radio communication enable effective standoff assessment and reduce time on target. The paper also examines dual-mode imaging, robotic deployment, and integration with NATO-standard software platforms to improve mission tempo and data sharing.
INTRODUCTION:
IMAGING THE MODERN BATTLESPACE
Across Eastern Europe and other conflict regions, EOD operators face a new generation of explosive hazard scenarios: improvised drones carrying grenades, trip-wired ammunition boxes, and ordnance buried within defensive positions or trenches. One notable report documented the use of animal carcasses rigged with explosives and dropped by drones by Russian forces in Ukraine1. Similarly, laptops left behind by retreating units have been booby-trapped with plastic explosives and ball bearings. Other rigged devices include power banks, portable radios, car batteries and printers or anything that troops might expect to provide them with enemy intelligence. These threats frequently appear in unstable structures or in the field, often under enemy observation. Direct manipulation is rarely safe. Serhii Beskrestnov, a Ukrainian military consultant, reported that ‘they should exercise caution when dealing with electronics left behind by Russian troops’. X-ray equipment in these situations can provide valuable information on the safety of items encountered.
Portable X-ray imaging gives operators a non-intrusive way to identify internal components, confirm safe-to-move status, and guide neutralisation techniques. Modern systems must combine speed, reliability, and operator protection while producing forensic-grade imagery suitable for intelligence and prosecution. The challenge is to obtain clear, actionable images while minimising time in the danger area and maintaining interoperability with allied partners.
Dual CR-DR X-ray imaging technology, powered by a single ScanView X platform.
EVOLUTION OF PORTABLE X-RAY TECHNOLOGY
The transition to Computed Radiography (CR) and Direct Radiography (DR) revolutionised X-ray imaging in the field, but users had to choose which technology to favour.
- CR uses reusable phosphor plates that are scanned by a reader to produce digital images.
- DR employs solid-state panels that instantly convert X-rays into electronic data.
The choice between CR and DR depends on the mission environment, mobility, decontamination requirements, and budget constraints. Recognising that, Scanna is one of the few manufacturers to offer dual technology systems to allow the user to select the detector plate technology suited to their task whilst only needing one controller and software platform.
Integrating perfectly with both CR and DR imaging plates are Golden’s range of pulsed X-ray generators XRS-200 (150 kV), XRS-3 (270 kV), and XRS-4 (370 kV), which provide a battle proven capability, with many decades of safe and reliable use with numerous EOD forces worldwide. Their latest multi-directional models offering compact, lightweight, battery-powered designs with strong penetration, minimal operator settings and minimal exclusion zones continue to lead the way.
ScanSilc 3643U DR rugged X-ray system with lightweight XR150 pulsed X-ray source.
OPERATIONAL REALITIES IN EOD AND UXO TASKS
EOD teams in conflict areas face recurring operational problems:
- Short exposure windows – operators should aim to minimize time on target, particularly when at risk of hostile fire.
- Complex geometries – objects hidden in walls, under vehicles, or beneath collapsed structures demand flexible detectors.
- Communications constraints – interference, jamming, or terrain can limit Wi-Fi range.
- Data sharing – teams require interoperable imagery that intelligence cells can analyse remotely.
- Forensic continuity – evidence collection and digital record-keeping are essential for post-incident analysis and war-crimes documentation.
Booby-trapped laptops found in frontline areas of Ukraine illustrate the benefit of high contrast, high resolution X-ray imaging. CR image plates provide 50 micron quality images and DR plates typically 140-76 microns dependent on the size of the plate. Successful tasks benefit from systems such as Scanna’s that deploy with the minimal of operational complexity, and offer single-button enhancement filters, allowing operators to rapidly assess whether they can safely exploit a laptop for intelligence purposes or need to apply render safe procedures.
Hostile environments also require Portable X-ray systems that are rugged, resistant to challenging environmental conditions, light weight, and adaptable while preserving diagnostic image quality.
Wirefree X-ray plate in storage allows collection of 300 X-ray images offline.
PULSE-CONTROL IMAGING: SAFETY THROUGH PRECISION
Modern pulsed X-ray sources are simple to set up and allow the operator to capture a clear X-ray image using a single pulse, minimising exposure to both radiation and threat. In sensitive situations such as booby- trapped electronics or anti-handling devices, this single-pulse capability can be decisive.
Programmable pulse-train imaging adds further flexibility. Multiple low-energy pulses through a target, work well to enhance contrast and penetration with minimal radiation for each shot. In this way, operators can review layered detail such as battery packs, detonators, and firing circuits, without increasing risk.
ScanSilc 36 x 43 cm panel used for vehicle inspection.
STORAGE-MODE OFFLINE IMAGING: REDUCING TIME ON TARGET
Scanna’s ScanSilc DR introduces an offline storage-mode capability that allows up to 300 X-ray images to be captured without any cables or Wi-Fi connection to the X-ray source and without any connection to a laptop/tablet. Operators can sweep a location, such as a trench line or abandoned command post, collecting X-rays of multiple items before withdrawing for image download and analysis.
In modern battlefield EOD practice, this is invaluable:
- Reduced exposure – less time near suspect ordnance.
- Faster clearance – multiple objects can be imaged sequentially.
- Improved forensic workflow – data can be catalogued and analysed once the team is safe.
This ‘capture now, analyse later’ approach aligns with clearance operations in high-risk zones such as Ukraine, where abandoned or booby-trapped positions require minimal presence in the danger area.
COMMUNICATIONS RESILIENCE: MESH-RADIO INTEGRATION
While short-range Wi-Fi suffices for urban policing in benign environments, military operations demand longer, secure and robust links. Scanna systems can integrate with military mesh radio networks, enabling encrypted, low-latency X-ray images to be collected and transferred over long distances or around obstacles, making them useful in both urban or contested environments.
Alternative long distance communication solutions such as Scanna’s ScanWave range extender, allow real-time image relay from forward operators or robotic platforms back to the operator’s location. Since the imaging software is compatible with all compact and body-worn Windows devices, the result is continuous situational awareness even under electronic-warfare conditions, without additional cabling or interface boxes.
MULTI-ANGLE IMAGING AND PSEUDO-3D VISUALISATION
IEDs and modified munitions are rarely symmetrical. A single image may conceal the true configuration of power units or triggering mechanisms. By taking sequential exposures from multiple angles and replaying them as a short loop, operators gain a pseudo-3D perception.
This technique improves X-ray interpretation and reduces misidentification of benign or threat items. It also serves as a training tool since field images can be compiled into libraries to refresh recognition of initiators, batteries, and switching arrangements encountered in theatre.
ROBOTIC INTEGRATION: EXTENDING THE STANDOFF
Where the risk of anti-handling or booby traps is high, remote deployment is essential. Scanna has worked with RCV manufacturers to integrate its detector handle directly into the RCV manipulator arm. The X-ray generator is then positioned, fired, and withdrawn by the robot using its native mesh-radio link for data return.
Benefits include:
- Elimination of cables trailing across the danger zone.
- Faster repositioning between targets, by reducing manual approaches.
- Immediate image review at the ICP.
- Reduced operator fatigue and exposure.
Recent field trials have shown that agile quadruped robots can carry portable X-ray equipment to suspected IEDs, place X-ray imaging panels with precision, and stream radiographs back to a remote operator. A new class of software platforms now merges the robot’s cameras, LiDAR mapping and X-ray images into one interface, often including VR teleoperation, so that EOD teams can inspect, classify and neutralise threats without sending personnel forward. All data are archived for intelligence and forensic analysis, creating a safer, repeatable approach to Counter-EO work in conflict zones.
ScanSilc X-ray plate on quadruped robot.
DETECTOR TECHNOLOGIES: MISSION-LED CHOICE
ScanSilc DR – Real-Time Digital Radiography
Scanna’s ScanSilc DR panel range – available in 10×24 cm, 18×24 cm, 24×30 cm, 36×43 cm, and 43×57 cm – with dual and multi-panel system configurations affords operators mission appropriate choice. The choice of panel sizes covers all battlefield missions whether it’s a compact panel for a grenade, small suspect device or body-worn IED or a large format 43×57 cm panel that allows a holdall, backpack or cabin bag to be inspected in a single X-ray scan.
ScanSilc X-ray panels share key attributes including:
- 2 cable or cable free operation – no additional interface or comms box required
- Image in <10 seconds with Automatic Exposure Adjustment
- High signal-to-noise ratio for fine detail in detonator and circuit regions.
- IP67 water- and dust-resistant construction; one-metre drop-tested.
- Compatible with ScanView X software for pulse control and enhancement.
- Integrates with Government-to-Government XTK platform for multinational sharing.
For mobile EOD detachments, ScanSilc DR delivers the speed and immediacy needed when decisions are time critical.
X-ray of pipe bomb.
ScanX Scout CR – Flexible Computed Radiography
For buried, obscured, or oddly-shaped targets, the ScanX Scout CR system with 50 micron resolution imaging remains unmatched. Its lightweight, thin, phosphor plates can be slid behind ordnance, wrapped around pipework, or taped to irregular surfaces and cut to custom sizes and shapes.
Advantages include:
- Zero dead-area for edge-to-edge high resolution imaging.
- Plates available in multiple sizes and cuttable to custom shapes.
- Ability to stitch multiple plates into a single exposure for large items.
- Rugged, field-ready plate reader – battery powered, sub 30-second readout.
- Cost-effective for high-volume UXO clearance missions, due to the relatively low cost of CR plates compared to DR systems.
In the Ukraine theatre, as with trenches, and drone-delivered devices, flexible plates could provide access where rigid panels cannot. In situations where electronic scanning is not viable, single time use chromographic film can be used as a backup although image quality may be compromised.
Dual-Technology Advantage
Both systems operate through the same British designed ScanView X software, giving teams a unified interface for CR and DR imaging, generator control, automatic exposure, image enhancement, stitching, and reporting. Operators can switch modes without retraining, choosing DR for speed or CR for geometry and reach.
IMAGING IN CONFINED OR CONTAMINATED AREAS
Trench systems, basements, collapsed buildings and urban rubble impose severe space constraints. CR’s flexible plates can slide into voids where DR panels cannot fit and are easy to wipe down and cost effective to sacrifice if contaminated. Because CR plates have negligible inactive borders (dead areas), they can record edge-close imagery of concealed triggers.
In contrast, DR panels allow immediate verification. If an initial image is unclear, the operator can refire from a safer distance, refining exposure in seconds.
Combined, CR and DR cover every likely scenario, and with highly agile robotic integrations, the full range of battlefield missions can be accomplished scanning in tight underground spaces to open-area drone or vehicle inspections.
Where the Ukraine conflict is seeing extensive use of anti-handling booby traps in civilian infrastructure and battle-destroyed buildings, there is a distinct advantage for these types of flexible imaging solutions.
Flexible CR X-ray plates and lightweight XR150 generator used with the ScanX Scout system, carry in one hand enabling X-rays to be taken in difficult to access areas.
SOFTWARE, TRAINING AND HUMAN FACTORS
The ScanView X platform supports both operational imaging, training and reporting. Built-in operator-assist algorithms enhance image contrast to reveal regions that may conceal detonators or explosives with minimal human input, to reduce training burden on the operator. Incidents can be stored with annotations, voice notes and GPS info where appropriate.
For NATO and partner nations, compatibility with free issue G2G XTK (X-ray Toolkit) software ensures that training libraries, image annotations, and forensic metadata remain consistent across allied forces. The ability to access the RECON IED component-identification library strengthens recognition skills and enables collaborative intelligence updates.
In clearance operations such as those following front-line retreats in Ukraine, teams with varying experience levels benefit from rapid upskilling and consistent image-analysis standards.
X-ray of IED taken with ScanView X software.
Wiretracing mode in ScanView X software.
INTEROPERABILITY AND DATA SECURITY
EOD X-ray imagery increasingly forms part of wider joint-task data systems. Scanna’s platforms support secure encryption, standard file formats (e.g., JPG, TIFF, PNG, BMP, .DICOM), and direct export to command-and-control dashboards. This simplifies after-action review.
As mentioned, Scanna’s portable X-ray solution is designed to fit into existing military communications and command workflows. The X-ray panel links to a mesh rugged radio that sends images and telemetry back to the operator’s controller; additional radios carried by teammates or mounted in vehicles can extend that link across buildings, terrain or long distances. Those same images can be shared via ATAK on body-worn Android devices, giving commanders, EOD specialists and remote analysts the same real time picture to discuss and act on. All traffic is encrypted to preserve operational security, and the system is built to work with the radios, body-worn handsets and SOPs already in use, so X-ray image sharing becomes another trusted piece of intelligence within the force’s mission kit.
In operations like those in Ukraine and the wider European conflict zone, this capacity to share data seamlessly across allied organisations supports both tactical response and strategic intelligence.
FROM CLEARANCE TO RECONSTRUCTION
Beyond immediate render-safe actions, imaging supports long-term clearance and reconstruction. In post-conflict areas, teams from NGOs and national agencies use portable X-ray systems to confirm ordnance type and status before excavation, reducing accidental detonations and speeding redevelopment. CR’s low cost and portability make it ideal for these sustained UXO and EC missions, while DR adds efficiency when rapid throughput is needed at central collection points.
LOOKING AHEAD: AI AND ASSISTED DECISION-MAKING
Scanna continues to research artificial-intelligence tools that can automatically mark suspect features, detonators, batteries, within X-ray images. Such algorithms, trained on extensive EOD image libraries, could assist less-experienced operators and further shorten decision cycles. Combined with mesh-radio connectivity and pseudo-3D visualisation, AI-assisted interpretation promises a powerful step forward in battlefield safety and efficiency.
CONCLUSION
In today’s operational environment, from urban counter-EO to wide-area UXO clearance, time, safety, and information dominance define success. Modern portable X-ray systems are no longer just diagnostic tools, they are information nodes connecting front-line operators to command and analysis networks.
Scanna’s approach combines proven field reliability with innovation that directly addresses the needs of EOD personnel:
- Pulse-controlled imaging minimises risk and optimises exposure.
- Offline storage-mode capture accelerates multi-target assessment.
- Mesh-radio integration ensures secure long-range connectivity.
- Pseudo-3D visualisation enhances threat recognition and training.
- Robotic compatibility extends the safe standoff distance.
- Dual CR/DR capability provides complete mission flexibility with a single software solution.
- Data interoperability guarantees seamless collaboration and data sharing.
Whether examining potentially modified electronic items, ordnance hidden in trench systems, or verifying a cache for forensic exploitation, Scanna’s ScanSilc DR and ScanX Scout CR systems give EOD professionals the clarity and confidence to make rapid, informed, and safe decisions in the hostile environments facing them today. ■
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