Founded in 2003, Alakai Defense Systems, Inc. is a small, veteran-owned, high-tech company specializing in laser and electro-optical standoff threat detection sensors for defense & security applications.

Our pioneering sensors use ultraviolet lasers for Raman spectroscopy, a distinctly different and safer approach than competing solutions. Our products overcome common detection issues and can be used in daylight without interference, in rugged outdoor conditions where threats exist, and without the risk of accidental ignition. Alakai products can detect and identify substances, and return results fast with enhanced signal intensity for trace quantities at long range or covering large areas in real-time.

Closeup shot of technician working on SAFR product

Alakai has leveraged our DUV technology to create some of the most innovative standoff detection systems in the world. The company was awarded the SPIE Prism Awards for PRIED and recognized as 'best in show' at SOFIC in 2017, in addition to being named:

Inc. 500
Governor's Business Diversification Award
Florida Company to Watch
Florida Fast 100
Tampa Bay Business Journal Fast 50

Alakai experts lead the detection industry. Collectively they hold several patents and patents pending for multiple generations of standoff spectroscopic sensor systems. Recognizing the emerging need for the detection and identification of drugs, Alakai added additional capabilities for detecting narcotics, opioids, and fentanyl.

Team

Ed Dottery, President, CEO

Ed Dottery is the founder and CEO of Alakai Defense Systems, Inc. He lead the company through rapid growth and the development of unique, leading-edge technologies to detect threats such as explosives, chemicals, WMD, narcotics, and hazardous materials at long standoff ranges.

Alakai is a second career for Mr. Dottery. During his time in the Army, he commanded in the Infantry and Special Forces and served on the physics faculty at West Point. He was instrumental in the oversight of defense programs in both the Army Acquisitions Corps as well as for the Lockheed Martin Corporation. Mr. Dottery is a graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and Stanford University. He currently serves as Chairman of the Board for the Florida Defense Contractors Association (FDCA).

Henry Maynard
Chief Operation Officer

Henry Maynard has 20 years of professional experience in STEM, forensic analysis, project and program/portfolio management, lab operations, training, quality assurance, and research. Mr. Maynard has extensive experience in advancing technological capabilities, cultivating strategic partnerships, and he has a proven track record of leading and implementing impactful change leading to greater levels of organizational success.

Frank Lacitignola
Vice President, National Security Applications

Retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel Frank Lacitignola is a seasoned intelligence officer and military attaché with over 30 years of experience in intelligence collection and analysis, centric to special operations, counterterrorism and counternarcotics.

Frank is a bronze star recipient and holds a BS in Engineering from West Point, a JD from the Washington School of Law at American University, and a BA in Foreign Relations from the University of Belgrano in Argentina.

Rob Waterbury
Chief Technology Officer

Rob Waterbury leads technology development, leveraging more than 30 years of experience in the innovative use of lasers, optics, and sensors. He has held the roles of Product Development Manager and OEM Sales Manager and his work has been recognized with multiple awards and patents.

Leo Hergenroeder
Chief Growth Officer

Leo Hergenroeder brings more than 25 years of experience in the defense industry to his work at Alakai. He is well versed in international business and developing and managing BD teams and served for 16 years in the U.S. Army. Mr. Hergenroeder holds a Six Sigma Black Belt and is a graduate of U.S. Military Academy at West Point and Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Wesley H. Westmoreland
Chief Revenue Officer

Wesley Westmoreland over the last 20 years has held leadership roles in finance, marketing, technology, and the defense industry. Companies range from small startups to large publicly traded companies, focusing on the regional, national, and global growth. Westmoreland is currently serving his third term as a trustee for the United States Army’s Command and General Staff College, which includes supporting the School for Advanced Military Studies and the Simon Center.

Robert Babnick
Director of Manufacturing

Robert Babnick leads our manufacturing, bringing more than 20 years of engineering and technical project management experience working for Department of Defense contractors. He has expertise in electronics, optics, and systems engineering.