American Science and Engineering, Inc. Receives $2.2 Million R&D Contract to Develop Ruggedized Z Backscatter Van (ZBV)

AS&E to implement ZBV technology on a platform for harsh environments

American Science and Engineering, Inc. (AS&E(R)) (NASDAQ:ASEI), a leader in X-ray detection technology, announced today the receipt of a $2.2 million Research and Development contract from the U.S. Government to deliver a 'ruggedized' Z(R) Backscatter Van(TM) (ZBV(TM)). The robust system will be configured to meet the U.S. Government's specifications for operation in harsh environments. Like the ZBV, these mobile systems will be easily relocatable in mission-critical areas and produce photo-like X-ray images of vehicles and other objects for rapid threat analysis.

Anthony Fabiano, AS&E President and CEO, commented, "The ruggedized ZBV is a natural development for the ZBV system -- the world's top selling non-intrusive cargo and vehicle inspection system. We continue to develop new applications using our proprietary Z(R) Backscatter(TM) technology to meet the evolving security concerns of our customers. AS&E is supporting this valued U.S. Government client by taking the technology capability of the ZBV and outfitting it for harsh terrain. The resulting ruggedized ZBV will expand our product offerings and fill an immediate need for the U.S. Government for their critical counterterrorism missions."