Examine how technology is changing the face of terrorism.

From the awful events of 9/11 and Madrid, to the summer 2005 attacks in London, terrorism in the 21st century is changing.

The targets, techniques and technologies of the terrorist are continually evolving. The challenge is to stay ahead of these changes.

In Reign Of Terror, we explore the complex nature of modern terrorism and ask: Who are the new terrorists, what motivates them, how are they organised and what are the trends of today that will shape the terrorists tactics of tomorrow?

* London bombings 1st anniversary – 7 July

Today, as constant attacks in Iraq and the London bombings highlighted, things have evolved. Using the London 2005 attacks as a focal point, we look at the motivations of suicide bombers and how they have become on of the most dangerous terrorist threats.

We also investigate how they are programmed, weaponised and targeted by terror “generals” in this war without borders.

Documentary Of The Week
Reign Of Terror - Al Qaeda Calling
Sun, 16 July, 7.30pm

In the last 10 years, complex, large-scale attacks have become the trademark of modern terrorism.

Techniques have been tested and honed in attacks on New York (2001), Bali (2002), Madrid (2004) and London (2005).

Terrorists have learned to think well outside of conventional attack strategies and to make weapons out of the things we take for granted.

In 9/11, aeroplanes were used as bombs. In London and Madrid, public transport systems were used for maximum impact. We review Madrid in detail and look at how terrorists used mobile phones to trigger their mass attack.

Documentary Of The Week:
Reign Of Terror - Hostage TV
Sun, 23 July, 7.30pm

This episode explores the psychological warfare and power play tactics used in modern-day hostage terror.

A crucial part of hostage taking is the use of modern media technology - both the manipulation of Western media to get the terrorists’ message across and in broadcasting their own message to avoid the media filter.

Using the Moscow Theatre siege to illustrate today’s advance hostage-taking strategies, we’ll explore their modern techniques and see how the same tactics are being used with terrible success in the Middle East’s ongoing hostage crisis.