May 2013



Tamar Group Replicates the Boston Pressure Cooker Bomb

April 2013

On April 15th, 2013, an improvised explosive device (IED) located inside a pressure cooker was activated at the finish line of the Boston Marathon, in Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.A. Three people were killed, including an eight year old boy, and many were injured.

A pressure cooker bomb is an improvised explosive device (IED) - a type of homemade bomb. It is made by placing explosive material into a pressure cooker and attaching a blasting cap at the top of the cooker.

Within hours of the event, Tamar Group began gathering relevant information from various open sources. Based on this information, Tamar Group's X-Test team built a replica of the pressure cooker IED, using the appropriate simulated explosive materials. The device was tested extensively with a wide variety of security equipment at Tamar Group's laboratory. Several days later, Tamar Group issued a technical report providing a thorough analysis of the device and IED components, including the device, using X-ray equipment, K-9 testing and other techniques.

Customers who subscribe to receive such reports were able to review the information within days. In parallel, the report and associated images were distributed to customers through XDsystems, Tamar Group's security management software that enhances security personnel preparedness.

Pressure cooker with IED – A replica created by Tamar Group's specialists

Fragmentation replica created by Tamar Group's specialists

Tamar Group's technical reports are designed to provide in-depth knowledge of explosive devices used by various terror organizations. Analyzing and understanding the design of these devices from a higher level and viewing the relevant images can enhance the preparedness and performance of security personnel and help thwart similar attacks in the future.

To subscribe to the Tamar Group technical reports or receive more information on security training, accessories and software, contact us at: info@tamar-group.comor visit our website at http://www.tamar-group.com/.