Our webinar on Breaking Global Terrorism with Emerging Technologies, with Dr. Prashant Ramachandran, Atria University professor, was a deep dive into emerging technologies that were at the forefront of Operation Neptune Spear and are soon becoming indispensable to the war against global terrorism.

Dr. Ram played a small but significant role in this operation that eliminated one of the world’s most sought-after terrorists -‘Geronimo’ aka ‘Jackpot’ aka Osama Bin Laden.

This was a unique experience for the students who were thrilled by the first-hand retelling of a story that shook the world. Real-life experiences are the biggest learning opportunities for any avid learner.

Identifying Osama

Dr. Ram, Ph.D. & M.S – Louisiana State University, shared his recollection of this 9-year long mission that the world knows very little about. That night when he received the image files to the mission, oblivious to the task he was being entrusted with. Only being informed of its urgency. The 1000+ lines of code that he orchestrated, the grueling 6-hour wait to process the results and finally, the loaded image before him that confirmed the identity of Osama Bin Laden, sending cold shivers down his spine – a memory he recalls so vividly as if it had unfolded before him only yesterday.

The thrilling memory of being a silent piece in the puzzle that led to the success of one of the world’s most covert missions, Operation Neptune Spear, is a memory that brings him great fulfillment & pride.

Emerging Technologies

Operation Neptune Spear was possible and successful due to the many advances in science & technology. Dr. Ram explained the specific advances that made the operation possible:

• Artificial Intelligence – Confirming the identity of Bin Laden
• Geo-spacial study (Data Sciences) – Precise location of Bin Laden
• IoT (Internet of Things) – For military simulation and live streaming of the Operation
• Mobility – For strike feasibility

The entire operation, which lasted only 40 minutes from start to finish, was the culmination of years of calculated planning and training by the US military and intelligence forces. Emerging technologies ensured that there was no stone left unturned while a mission of such stealth and jeopardy was being undertaken.

Dr. Prashant Ramachandran

Atria University professor

Interactive Technologies