Smiths Detection and Astrotech’s subsidiary 1st Detect partner for DHS contract

Smiths Detection has entered into a strategic alliance with Astrotech’s subsidiary 1st Detect to develop next generation explosives trace detection (ETD) systems for the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

The development follows the award of a contract by the US DHS Science and Technology Directorate (DHS S&T) to Smiths Detection for the development of enhanced ETDs.

Under the terms of the deal, Smiths Detection will use 1st Detect’s chemical analyser technology to develop ETD as part of the first phase of the programme which will continue for two years.

The initial phase will followed by design for manufacturability and procurement.

The companies will jointly develop solution to enhance passenger and carryon baggage screening as well as other homeland security operations.

Astrotech and 1st Detect chairman and CEO Thomas B. Pickens III said: "We are very excited to be working with Smiths Detection on this worldwide opportunity.

"We have been working for years to position our technology to reach the high level of performance needed to be selected by both the DHS and Smiths Detection. Being selected for this important program validates both our technology and our long term corporate strategy."

1st Detect develops, manufactures, and sells chemical analysers for use in the food and beverage, semiconductor, pharmaceutical, healthcare, research, and environmental markets, as well as for government applications used in explosive and chemical warfare detection for the DHS and the military.