NEWS RELEASE

For further information please contact: Capt. J. Tim Hull
(573) 526-6115
Q9089
September 26, 2008
EMPHASIS: Grant Provides Patrol With Mobile Command And Communication Vehicle

Colonel James F. Keathley is pleased to inform the public about the acquisition of a mobile command and communication vehicle (MCCV). As a result of this Missouri Homeland Security federal grant, the state-of-the-art MCCV adds to the Patrol’s disaster communication capabilities.

This vehicle allows interoperability between local, state, and national law enforcement during natural disasters, serious events, or an act of terrorism. This MCCV was built by Frontline Communications of Clearwater, FL. The Patrol took possession of the $811,000 mobile command and communication vehicle on September 4, 2008. The MCCV is 13'2" in height, 8' wide, and 42'3" in length. The total weight of this vehicle is approximately 39,000 lbs. (without occupants).

The Department of Public Safety facilitated the creation of the grant, which included a request for five vehicles, three rapid response vehicles (RRV), and two mobile command and communication vehicles. Other agencies providing input for the grant include the Office of Administration, State Emergency Management Agency, agencies within DPS, local police departments, and sheriff’s departments.

The MCCV acquired by the Patrol is a communication and coordination platform designed to connect to and exploit the benefits of the existing 800 MHz, 700MHz, VHF high band, VHF low band, aviation, and marine radio systems. Additional features include:
* Completely compatible with the SAFECOM (a communications program of the Department of Homeland Security).
* ACU/TRP-2000 to interconnect the normally dissimilar frequencies and bands.
* Telephone, office, and dispatch equipment.
*Wireless Internet access, Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP), Radio Over Internet Protocol (ROIP).
* Live video down-link capabilities from Patrol helicopters.

This invaluable incident management tool will be available with trained emergency management personnel 24 hours a day across the state to assist any agency requesting support and will be available to the neighboring states through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact.

Below is a list of dates and the troop locations where the mobile command communication vehicle can be viewed. The media is invited to video and photograph the MCCV, as well as speak with the troop public information and education officer.

September 29, 2008 Troop F - Jefferson City, MO
October 1, 2008 Troop D - Springfield, MO
October 7, 2008 Troop C - Weldon Spring, MO
October 8, 2008 Troop E - Poplar Bluff, MO
October 9, 2008 Troop G - Willow Springs, MO
October 14, 2008 Troop B - Macon, MO
October 15, 2008 Troop H - St. Joseph, MO
October 16, 2008 Troop A - Lee’s Summit, MO
October 21, 2008 Troop I - Rolla, MO
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