Smiths wins $71 million US Government contract for explosives detectors

SMITHS Detection, part of the global technology business Smiths Group, today announces it has won a contract to supply explosives trace detectors (ETD) to the US Government with a potential value of $71 million.

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA), part of the US Department of Homeland Security, will deploy the Smiths Detection IONSCAN 400B desktop explosives trace detectors at airports across the United States.

The TSA, which protects Americas airports and rail network, has already made its first purchase under the contract placing a $7.2 million order for IONSCAN 400B machines.

The detectors will be used to scan carry-on and checked baggage for traces ofexplosives.

Stephen Phipson, Group Managing Director of Smiths Detection, said: We are delighted to be able to provide equipment that can contribute greatly to the detection of threats against the travelling public.

There are already around 4,000 Smiths IONSCAN explosives trace detectors deployed at airports in the United States. This contract is recognition of our technological leadership in the global effort to keep transport systems safe.

Smiths hand-held explosives detectors are already being used by the New York Police Department to protect the subway and were involved in high-profile security trials on the London Underground this year.

Smiths walk-through explosives detection portals are currently deployed at 17 US airports, including JFK, Washington Dulles and Newark, and were recently deployed by HM Revenue and Customs at Heathrow and Manchester airports to detect narcotics.

The IONSCAN 400B is an explosives trace detector that can detect and identify traces of more than 40 substances in eight seconds.

The desktop unit quickly analyses sample swabs of items such as handbags and briefcases. The swab sample is then placed into the IONSCAN 400B for analysis and the results are displayed to the operator.

A detection of trace explosives indicates that an explosive device may be present or that the person may have been handling explosive material and further investigation is necessary.

ENDS

IONSCAN is a trade mark of Smiths Detection