At the request of first responders, the Department of Home-land Security Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) launched the Multi-Band Radio (MBR) initiative. Partnering with responders, S&T determined requirements for a single mobile radio capable of operating across disparate radio bands. Based on these requirements, manufacturers developed the hand-held MBR. At a cost comparable to a high-end portable radio, the MBR provides responders with the cutting-edge communications capabilities necessary to respond to emergencies.