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
ODU RT

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
ODU RT

 

Advertisement
FIA2026 animated banner
RIAT 2026 cancelled

Aerospace Defence Security Events

RIAT 2026 cancelled

22 May 2026

This year’s Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) will now not be taking place, cancelled due to issues regarding access to the event - at RAF Fairford in Gloucestershire - amid concerns over conflict in the Middle East.

ADS appoints Andy Williams Director of ADS Scotland

Aerospace Defence Security Space

ADS appoints Andy Williams Director of ADS Scotland

22 May 2026

ADS, the trade association for the aerospace, defence, security and space industries, has announced the appointment of Andy Williams as Scotland Director.

King’s College London and Cranfield University propose merger

Aerospace Defence Security Space

King’s College London and Cranfield University propose merger

22 May 2026

King’s College London and Cranfield University have announced that the two universities have signed an agreement as the first step towards a merger, with the aim of bringing the two institutions together from August 2027, which will support UK national capability and resilience.

Met appoints Hardev Virdee as Chief Strategy and Investment Officer

Security

Met appoints Hardev Virdee as Chief Strategy and Investment Officer

21 May 2026

The Met has announced the appointment of Hardev Virdee as its new Chief Strategy and Investment Officer, playing a pivotal role in shaping the Met’s future, leading its long-term strategy, investment and commercial functions.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Austability Group acquires majority stake in Nine23

Defence Security

Austability Group acquires majority stake in Nine23

20 May 2026

Austability Group Ltd, which provides expeditionary operational support services for the defence and national security sector, has acquired a majority shareholding (80%) in Nine23 Ltd, one of the UK’s high-assurance managed service providers.

Getac to demo integrated tactical solutions at SOF Week 2026

Defence Security Events

Getac to demo integrated tactical solutions at SOF Week 2026

15 May 2026

Getac, a provider of rugged computing and mobile video solutions and a manufacturer with advanced in-house capabilities, will demo its portfolio of rugged laptops, tablets and command solutions at SOF Week 2026, 18th-21st May in Tampa, Florida.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Advertisement
General Atomics LB