Pentagon Sets up Technology task force. (Washington pulse).

A counter-terrorism "technology task force," was established at the Pentagon on September 19, in response to the terrorist attacks, said Ronald M. Sega, the director of defense research and engineering.

The group was asked to "identify core technologies applicable to combating terrorism,"

The focal areas will be divided into four groups: survivability and denial, deterrence and warning, consequence management and recovery, and attribution and retaliation.

One project will involve the use of modeling and simulation to train commanders on how to deal with asymmetric threats. "We will use models and social science theory to allow commanders to shape engagements without the use of force," said Sega.

One area of concern at Sega's office is the expected wave of retirements during the next five years. That will dramatically shrink the pool of scientists and engineers available to carry out the counter-terrorism technology effort, Sega said.