Smiths Detection Wins $11.4 Million TSA Order for Advanced Explosives Trace Detectors

IONSCAN 500DT Used to Screen Passengers' Carry-on Luggage at Security Checkpoints; Follows Previous $6 Million Order

Smiths Detection today announces an $11.4 million order from the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) for its explosives trace detection technology, the IONSCAN 500DT. Intended for use at security checkpoints, the desktop detectors identify trace amounts of explosives collected on a single swab, in seconds.

Mark Laustra, Vice President of Homeland Security for Smiths Detection, said: "We are delighted to continue our partnership with TSA by providing reliable explosives detection solutions. The sensitivity of the IONSCAN 500DT provides a high level of detection and enables TSA to continue its multilayered security approach."

The IONSCAN 500DT uses ion mobility spectrometry technology in a dual tube design to provide the high sensitivity and accuracy needed to detect trace explosives. Because of its small size and speed of detection, the system is ideal for checkpoint security screening in airports, ports and borders, air cargo screening facilities, public and private buildings, courthouses and correctional facilities.

This current purchase follows a previous $6 million order by the TSA in October 2008. Smiths Detection has more than 6,000 desktop trace detection systems deployed in addition to its industry-leading X-ray inspection systems and other detectors installed in around 80 percent of the world's airports.