March 24, 2004—The Department of Homeland Security, as part of its Homeland Security Information Network initiative, is expanding its computer-based counterterrorism communications network to all 50 states, five territories, Washington, DC, and 50 other major urban areas to strengthen its two-way flow of threat information.
This communications system will deliver real-time interactive connectivity among state and local partners, including state National Guard offices, Emergency Operations Centers, and first responder and Public Safety departments, and with the DHS Homeland Security Operations Center (HSOC) through the Joint Regional Information Exchange System (JRIES).
This increased connectivity will result in more effective communications and more efficient responses to deter, detect, prevent, or respond to terrorist actions. It will also serve as a means for supporting crisis management and recovery operations post-terrorist attack or during the course and aftermath of a natural crisis.
