Transferring army technology to states not easy.

The U.S. Army has invested billions of dollars in training systems that would have a variety of applications in homeland security. But transferring this technology from the military to National Guard and law-enforcement agencies is easier said than done.

A case in point is a marksmanship trainer--called Engagement Skills Trainer--which can create virtual scenarios for infantry combatants as well as for police forces and anti-terrorism squads.

The EST was developed by the Army's program executive office for simulation, training and instrumentation. The Army directed PEO STRI officials to market the EST trainer to National Guard units and other homeland security organizations.

That has proven to be a tougher job than anyone had expected, said Lt. Col. Joseph A. Giunta Jr., product manager for ground combat tactical trainers at PEO STRI.

In the absence of a central procurement office for homeland security equipment, the Army has contacted individual states, trying to interest them in the EST trainer for their National Guard forces.

After discussing tire matter with various Guard officials, Giunta realized, to his chagrin, that most states lack funds for new technology and that each state plays by different rules when it comes to the procurement of homeland security gear.

During a recent conference of the Institute for Defense and Government Advancement, Giunta was asked what agency would be responsible to fund the procurement of trainers for homeland security. His response: "If you can find out, please call me."

Complicating matters is that fact that each National Guard unit has different requirements for training. "It's a challenge," said Giunta. "Each National Guard team in each state trains differently ... The capabilities are different."

An executive from ECC Corp., the Orlando, Fla.-based manufacturer of the trainer, has been helping Giunta's office pitch the EST to state governments. One frustrated executive told National Defense: "It's tough to deal with individual states."