U.S. Customs and Border Protection Places $9.1 Million Order for AS&E`s New MobileSearch HE Systems

Tue Oct 27, 2009 8:30am EDT
 
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CBP Orders First MobileSearch HE Systems for Port and Border Security
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BILLERICA, Mass.--(Business Wire)--
American Science and Engineering, Inc. (AS&E®) (NASDAQ: ASEI), a leading
worldwide supplier of innovative X-ray detection solutions, announced today the
receipt of a $9.1 million order from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)
for multiple MobileSearch™ HE (High-Energy) cargo and vehicle inspection systems
equipped with both high-energy transmission and proprietary Z Backscatter™ X-ray
imaging for detecting threats and contraband including weapons, explosives,
drugs, and currency. 

"We are pleased to provide CBP with AS&E`s MobileSearch HE systems to support
their counter-drug and anti-terrorism programs," said Anthony Fabiano, AS&E`s
President and CEO. "MobileSearch HE offers flexible and rapid response at
seaports, border crossings, and other high threat checkpoints. The system`s
combination of technologies offers the unique capability to simultaneously
detect both metallic and organic threats in cargo - providing detailed
information about the contents of the cargo." 

This contract was funded by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) American
Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) for Non-Intrusive Inspection (NII)
equipment - enhancing border security by expanding U.S. Customs and Border
Protection (CBP) capabilities to scan commercial traffic for contraband through
X-ray and other imaging technologies. 

AS&E`s MobileSearch HE Cargo and Vehicle Inspection System:
High-Energy Inspection Plus Z Backscatter Imaging in Highly Mobile Configuration

The MobileSearch HE system offers two complementary imaging technologies
integrated in one system. Its 4.5 MeV high energy transmission X-ray generates
high penetration and high resolution images for the inspection of densely loaded
cargo, with typical penetration over 12 inches (300 mm) of steel. The system
also utilizes Z Backscatter X-ray imaging to assist in the identification of
organics for improved detection of explosive threats and other organic
contraband. Z Backscatter technology offers the additional benefits of
photo-like images and improved image analysis time, as well as a wide field of
view with no tire or ground cutoff unlike transmission X-rays - allowing for the
effective scanning of passenger vehicles and tires. 

For added flexibility, the system offers multiple scan modes for high speed
scanning of passenger vehicles or oversized or odd-shaped cargo, allowing the
operational flexibility of the Z Backscatter™ Van - in either "drive-by" mode to
scan stationary objects, or "portal" mode to scan vehicles as they drive past
the system. The MobileSearch HE system also features a unique integrated cab
design that enables the drivers and operators to be in the same spacious cabin
for improved communications and comfort. 

About AS&E®

American Science and Engineering, Inc. (AS&E) is the leading worldwide supplier
of innovative X-ray inspection systems. With over 50 years of experience in
developing advanced X-ray security systems, the Company`s product line utilizes
a combination of technologies, including patented Z Backscatter technology,
Radioactive Threat Detection (RTD), high energy transmission and dual energy
transmission X-ray. These technologies offer superior X-ray threat detection for
plastic explosives, plastic weapons, liquid explosives, dirty bombs and nuclear
devices. AS&E`s complete range of products include cargo inspection systems for
port and border security, baggage screening systems for facility and aviation
security, and personnel and passenger screening systems. AS&E systems protect
high-threat facilities and help combat terrorism and trade fraud, drug
smuggling, weapon smuggling, and illegal immigration and people smuggling. AS&E
customers include leading government agencies, border authorities, military
bases, airports and corporations worldwide, including the U.S. Department of
Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), U.S. Customs and
Border Protection (CBP), North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), HM Revenue &
Customs (U.K.), Hong Kong Customs, and Abu Dhabi Customs. For more information
on AS&E products and technologies, please visit www.as-e.com. 

Safe Harbor Statement.The foregoing press release contains statements concerning
AS&E`s financial performance, markets and business operations that may be
considered "forward-looking" under applicable securities laws. AS&E wishes to
caution readers of this press release that actual results might differ
materially from those projected in any forward-looking statements. Factors which
might cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the
forward-looking statements contained herein include the following: significant
reductions or delays in procurements of the Company`s systems by the United
States and other governments; disruption in the supply of any source component
incorporated into AS&E`s products; litigation seeking to restrict the use of
intellectual property used by the Company; potential product liability claims
against the Company; global political trends and events which affect public
perception of the threat presented by drugs, explosives and other contraband;
global economic developments and the ability of governments and private
organizations to fund purchases of the Company`s products to address such
threats; and the potential insufficiency of Company resources, including human
resources, capital, plant and equipment and management systems, to accommodate
any future growth, and future delays in federal funding. These and certain other
factors which might cause actual results to differ materially from those
projected are detailed from time to time in AS&E`s periodic reports and
registration statements filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which
important factors are incorporated herein by reference. AS&E undertakes no
obligation to update forward looking statements to reflect changed assumptions,
the occurrence of unanticipated events, or changes in future operating results,
financial condition or business over time.

Red Javelin Communications, Inc.
Dana Harris, 978-440-8392
dana@redjavelin.com
or
American Science and Engineering, Inc.
Laura Berman, 978-262-8700
lberman@as-e.com



Copyright Business Wire 2009

 

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