Cuattro's mission to reinvent tactical X-ray imaging

SoldierMod talks with Patrick Herbert and Collin Wilson, owners of Cuattro Imaging

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Many of today's digital X-ray systems used by Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD), tactical and security teams simply aren't built for the job. Cuattro, a U.S.-based imaging company with deep roots in digital radiography, is changing that, dramatically.

We sat down with the owners of Cuattro Imaging, Patrick Herbert and Collin Wilson, to learn how their SafeSignal system is redefining what's possible.

Q: Who is Cuattro, and why did you get into this space?

A: We're a US-owned and operated company, and we've been a true manufacturer and developer of digital radiography since its introduction to the US in 1998. We stepped into the defence space because of the stories we were hearing about operators using outdated, unreliable imaging systems in high-risk environments. Since many of us at Cuattro have family members who have served, including Collin's grandfather who lost a leg from a landmine during the Vietnam War, we wanted to change the technology and the attitudes about relying on X-ray in the field. We're patriots, and we believe the people who step into danger to protect others deserve equipment that's built for the job, not hand-me-down technology.

Q: What are some of the core challenges in digital X-ray systems for EOD Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD), security, and tactical teams that you have seen, and how do the limitations of the systems in use affect mission readiness in high-threat scenarios?

A: Military innovation is known for being at the cutting edge. But when it comes to digital X-ray technology, unfortunately, the technology lags far behind. A big part of the problem is that many systems used today weren't built for tactical environments. They're off-the-shelf solutions from other industries and repurposed for EOD use with minimal adaptation.

There are standard technological advances, such as 100-micron resolution, native 16-bit imaging rather than upscaling from 12 or 14-bit, glass-free substrates and direct disposition, which we've seen for years in the medical space but haven't been transferred to the security space.

The result? Operators have been forced to rely on outdated X-ray systems that are simply unfit for modern mission-critical demands. We've seen teams using technology that was abandoned decades ago—systems from companies that are slow to innovate and too disconnected from their supply chains to deliver solutions that actually work.

This has real operational consequences. X-ray is the only tool that lets operators see through an object, so it's critical for EOD or tactical ops where the stakes are at their highest. But, with current technology, the best-case scenario is getting a “soft” looking image with subpar resolution. You might miss a wire because the gauge is so small that anything over 100-micron resolution or 16-bit grayscale will miss it, or your bezel edge on the bottom of the panel is too large, and the wire is sitting on the floor where you can't even image it.

That's the gap we're focused on closing. We didn't just tweak existing tech, we built purpose-driven systems from the ground up.

Q: How are you helping address the challenges? What features do Cuattro systems have that solve these core challenges in ways that outpace the competition or current systems?

A: We approached this challenge with a very clear philosophy: to build a system that works in the field from the ground up, based on real operational applications.

It took us months to get to the right solution. It took a lot of work with the right people, engineers and partners. We took our time to do what we do best, building the right solution, not just for today, but for years to come.

Our systems are designed for next-generation digital missions. Because we're deeply embedded in the supply chain, we can custom-design and manufacture core technologies. That level of control is rare, and it means we're innovating from the inside out. It also means we can iterate quickly when the mission demands change. We're one of the few who can do that.

When you pair that with a forward-thinking, excited, smart and loyal (to customers) team, that's a dream scenario. And the proof is in the pudding. Our stuff just works, and we're breaking new trail in the segment by building core technology like our SafeSignal system.

Q: Can you describe the underlying communication architecture of SafeSignal? How does it ensure secure, real-time signal acquisition in RF-constrained or GPS-denied environments?

A: It's first important to consider how digital x-ray systems currently interface. In medical and veterinary use cases, where a significant portion of this technology has been developed, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth interfaces are effective. I don't have to run 150 feet away from my patient before taking the X-ray, so all of this is done in a relatively controlled, environment, albeit often dirty and rugged in veterinary settings. However, these legacy systems were never intended for use in fields like EOD, where finding a device at a safe distance is crucial.

But when it comes to EOD, security or defence, WiFi and Bluetooth interfaces don't work. They can be harmful and are not a long-term solution. We realized this very quickly. Although our current WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity outperforms competitors, with connectivity reaching over 280 feet, it's inherently a dangerous signal for several reasons, including triggering or disrupting, jamming, intercepting, interfering, and most importantly, tracking.

So, we developed SafeSignal with DTC Communications. It's an encrypted, RF-based MANET communications infrastructure that allows you to operate on a range of secure frequencies. It features built-in capabilities, including an RF-spectrum analyzer and Interference Avoidance Schemes, which are essential for any military communications environment.

WiFi runs off 2.4 or 5 GHz, so it's easy to jam or tap into. But running on RF expands the range of possibilities by constantly changing the frequencies you're using and monitoring them to ensure security and safety are always achieved. The form factor of how these integrate into the Cuattro ecosystem is equally important as well.

SafeSignal provides advanced reliability compared to legacy wireless or tethered systems used in explosive detection. Latency, depending on distance, is ~5-20% longer due to the encryption technology, but that's still remarkably fast, with acquisition times still only a matter of seconds, even at ranges exceeding 800 meters.

We always build our systems, including the latest generation, with redundancy and upgrade compatibility in mind. As it stands, SafeSignal is compatible with every Cuattro system currently deployed in the security and military sectors and just requires an over-the-air software update.

Q: Can you tell us more about the benefits of operating in the RF environment, specifically around jamming, interference, interception and security protocols?

A: The biggest advantage of RF-based communication over traditional Wi-Fi or Bluetooth is resilience. As mentioned, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth operate on just a few known frequencies, which makes them susceptible to jamming, interception, or disruption. In EOD scenarios, where every signal matters and lives are on the line, that's a major vulnerability. Even when encrypted, Wi-Fi often uses relatively weak encryption standards that aren't suited for critical missions.

SafeSignal allows encryption at 128- or 256-bit levels and still delivers imagery in seconds. That level of security, combined with speed, is crucial when decisions must be made quickly and under pressure.

In the RF environment, we also have interference avoidance. If the frequency you're operating on is jammed or disrupted, the system will automatically switch to another frequency without operator intervention, and keep the whole operation online. We partner with DTC Communications to develop our EOD package, ensuring it's a robust solution.

Q: How does SafeSignal perform under signal degradation conditions such as urban canyons, subterranean locations, or high EM interference zones?

A: Because RF allows for true mesh networking, you're not limited by a single point-to-point connection. SafeSignal can maintain a connection through buildings, tunnels, or urban environments where line of sight is broken.

One military field exercise highlighted just how far behind legacy systems are. Some could barely connect beyond six feet, failing more than half the time at startup. Teams were reverting to wired configurations to get an image, but that was happening in highly urgent and dangerous situations. We tested our WiFi and Bluetooth, which extend up to 280 feet (still not putting an operator into a safe zone), against SafeSignal. We were able to maintain strong connections up to half a mile through multiple buildings, metal roofs and brick structures, and see what was happening at the device in real-time.

We have solved the problem of keeping an operator in a safe zone, significantly reducing time on the scene, and eliminating the use of wires and failure points around WiFi networks. It's lifesaving.

Q: Cuattro devices are already in the field. What feedback have you received from EOD teams, bomb squads, or tactical units during beta deployments of SafeSignal?

A: Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. The systems have been in use for a couple of years now, and we regularly hear “we finally have a system that works." When we show up to demos, we often find current users advocating for us before we've even started.

We've also observed specific changes in tactical workflows as a result of implementing SafeSignal - particularly in the steps between panel placement, image acquisition and interpretation.

Q: From a user training perspective, how steep is the learning curve for SafeSignal adoption? Have teams adapted easily to the technology? And how do you support users' post-deployment in terms of servicing, innovation and updates?

A: The learning curve is minimal. SafeSignal is truly plug-and-play. We can train an operator in minutes, or most often, they can intuitively “train” themselves. This is a stark contrast to legacy systems, where teams frequently spend more time troubleshooting than using the device. When teams see our kit, they're more worried about having to use their current system while they procure ours!

We've set a high standard for performance and reliability with our uptime guarantee. We offer 24/7, 365-day support, guaranteed by contract, but typically receive very few support calls per year - our systems just work. Our support and engineering teams are co-located in Colorado, which means faster issue resolution and tighter feedback loops.

Software innovation is a core strength, and field feedback directly drives updates. For example, a recent request to adjust the acquisition control was designed, implemented and pushed as an over-the-air update to all users within weeks.

Q: How does Cuattro envision SafeSignal reshaping the broader landscape of remote or autonomous digital X-ray imaging across the defence and homeland security sectors?

A: You can't have a next-generation digital X-ray system for defence or homeland security without robust, long-range connectivity. That's where SafeSignal fundamentally changes the game. We've built the hardware, software and communications layer to support fully remote and increasingly autonomous imaging workflows.

What sets us apart is control. We own our supply chain, our software stack and our R&D roadmap. That allows us to move fast, innovate constantly and pivot based on real user feedback. Most players in this space are resellers or repackagers. We're true builders.

Looking ahead, as technologies like drones and autonomous platforms continue to advance, we're uniquely positioned to integrate with them, enabling safer imaging and reducing human exposure in the most hazardous scenarios. Our vision is a future where X-ray imaging can be conducted remotely, reliably and intelligently, with SafeSignal as the backbone.

Q: In your view, what is the next technological evolution after SafeSignal in the tactical imaging space, and how is Cuattro positioning itself to lead that evolution?

A: The next evolution won't come from inside a lab; it'll come from the field. We believe operator feedback will shape what's next. That means more field trials, more conversations with EOD teams, and a clear focus on how this technology is being used. We've built the right ecosystem; now we're listening closely to those navigating the day-to-day.

Our advantage is flexibility. We can rapidly adapt based on user needs because we control every layer of the system, from hardware to software. We're already laying the groundwork for what's next, including deeper data collection via standards like DICOM, which opens up future possibilities well beyond basic image capture. Collaboration is key. Let the operators steer, and we'll continue building what they need next.

For more information please visit:
https://cuattro.com