Oct. 27, 2009 (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.