Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide
  • Home
  • /
  • Security
  • /
  • Smiths Detection wins US Customs and Border Protection contract

Security

Smiths Detection wins US Customs and Border Protection contract

Smiths Detection has been awarded an indefinite-delivery-indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract with the US Department of Homeland Security, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to provide HCVT advanced X-ray scanners for use at US railway checkpoints at both the northern and southern borders.

Image courtesy Smiths Detection

The initial order value is $13.5M with initial deliveries planned for 2021.

The HCVT is a side-view, high-energy X-ray inspection scanner used to screen moving rail cars and wagons for dangerous or illegal cargo. Enabling for both more effective and faster screening methods, the HCVT can penetrate over 12 inches (300mm) of steel and screens single or double-stacked containers at normal operating speeds. It can also be connected with Custom networks and other HCV scanners to enable remote analysis, image comparison and knowledge sharing amongst homeland security agencies.

Advertisement
Security & Policing Rectangle

Shan Hood, President of Smiths Detection Inc., said: “Smiths Detection’s HCVT gives US Customs and Border Protection Officers 24/7 capabilities to intercept dangerous goods and contraband transported throughout the US by rail. Equipping CBP with HCVT technology is key in making the delivery of freight safer while allowing the logistical chain to keep moving.”

The IDIQ contract with CBP has a $379m ceiling, allows for multiple orders of SDI products and services under a single contract over five years, and provides flexibility for the customer in follow-on order decisions. The contract also includes an option for service over a 10-year period.

Advertisement
PTC rectangle

 

Advertisement
ECS leaderboard banner
Defence personnel to gain greater powers to defeat drones

Defence Security

Defence personnel to gain greater powers to defeat drones

3 February 2026

The security of key military sites will be strengthened as Defence personnel will be given stronger powers to defeat drones near bases as part of new measures being introduced in the Armed Forces Bill.

Viasat launches satellite service portfolio for government UAV ops

Defence Security Space

Viasat launches satellite service portfolio for government UAV ops

2 February 2026

Viasat today launched its next-generation satellite service portfolio, engineered to meet the evolving demands for government uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) operations worldwide, including intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), emergency response and special operations.

ABT sets framework for OEM battery development

Aerospace Defence Security

ABT sets framework for OEM battery development

2 February 2026

UK battery pack manufacturer Alexander Battery Technologies (ABT), has set out a clearer framework for how OEMs can approach battery development.

Funding of £20m set to find Britain’s next defence unicorn

Aerospace Defence Security Space Events

Funding of £20m set to find Britain’s next defence unicorn

29 January 2026

The search for the UK’s next defence unicorn has kicked off with the launch of a bespoke £20 million fund to offer accelerated contracts to small, innovative British startups who have had limited or no business with the Ministry of Defence.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Metis launches Skyperion Lightweight

Aerospace Defence Security

Metis launches Skyperion Lightweight

29 January 2026

Lincoln based specialists in Radio Frequency (RF) and drone detection technologies, Metis, have launched their latest detection product, Skyperion Lightweight.

Kier Pritchard announced as Ministry of Defence Police Chief Constable

Defence Security

Kier Pritchard announced as Ministry of Defence Police Chief Constable

27 January 2026

Lucy Bogue, Director SJC GUARDIAN, has announced the appointment of Kier Pritchard as Ministry of Defence Police (MDP) Chief Constable following an open selection process.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Advertisement
Babcock LB Babcock LB