The need to identify threats in various forms in the post 9/11 world has driven innovation in the development of vibrational spectroscopic instrumentation. Specifically, instruments have been reduced in size and weight and portable, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) and Raman spectrometers are prevalent in the hands of First Responders and specialized military teams. These instruments are battery-powered and can be used while the operator is fitted with chemical protective clothing. Software algorithms and methods have been devised to simplify identification of threats by non-chemists. This presentation will concern the state of the art in rugged, portable FT-IR and Raman instruments currently used by homeland security specialists. Key design and performance attributes for these users will be discussed as well as selected applications of the technologies. If time permits, the use of IR and Raman spectroscopies as part of an integrated threat characterization approach will be presented.