FC Bayern Munich is to beta test the Hexwave stadium security system that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to detect weapons.
Atlanta-based Liberty Defense, the security and weapons detection solutions firm that licensed Hexwave, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the German Bundesliga club to test the technology at the 75,000-seat Allianz Arena.
Hexwave uses low-power, radar imaging and artificial intelligence to scan an individual and create a digital 3D image from which it can primarily detect and identify weapons.
It enables a layered defence strategy for a venue, meaning the ability to detect threats at the perimeter of the property without obstructing the movement of large groups of people.
The technology can be used indoors and outdoors, with the detection range typically being from five to eight feet. It does not use facial recognition and does not store images.
Bill Riker, chief executive of Liberty Defense, said: “The reception to our Hexwave product has been fantastic and we are excited about working alongside FC Bayern Munich, a team that is a household name in both Europe and North America.
“Our ability to deploy in both indoor and outdoor settings, with covert and overt applications, sets us apart and has also been driving increasing interest from the market.”
Beta testing involves using Hexwave in a live environment, such as during a football match, with initial alpha testing at Liberty’s Center of Excellence laboratory in Atlanta, Georgia.
Riker added: “We are pleased to have the opportunity to work with FC Bayern and have them sign on to become the first early adopter in Europe of this advanced technology.”
Beta testing will begin later this year and will run until early 2020, with Liberty Defense aiming to fully launch next year. The company is working with venue security teams to identify where in the stadium Hexwave should be located.
The firm is also beta testing at Rogers Arena, home to the NHL’s Vancouver Canucks, and has signed an agreement with the Utah Attorney General to integrate Hexwave into various public venues throughout the state.
