Re Contract

Smiths Group PLC
26 September 2007

Smiths Detection secures ten year BAA deal to revolutionise UK passenger
checkpoints

Deal includes world's first deployment of aTiX - the checkpoint X-ray machine
that can automatically detect explosives and liquids



SMITHS Detection, part of the global technology business Smiths Group, today
announces it has been selected by BAA as its long-term strategic partner in a
ten year deal that aims to enhance security levels at every passenger checkpoint
at BAA's seven UK airports (Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Glasgow, Edinburgh,
Aberdeen and Southampton).



Starting immediately, Smiths Detection will replace all existing X-ray screening
systems for passengers' hand baggage. The advanced systems to be deployed
include the world's first deployment of aTiX (Advanced Threat Identification
X-Ray), the checkpoint X-ray that can automatically detect explosives and
liquids.



This is the first time a new X-ray technology has been deployed at airport
checkpoints for a decade. aTiX is designed both to combat the evolving terror
threat and to improve the passenger experience at checkpoints.



aTiX replaces conventional X-ray systems with computerised machines that take
multiple views of a carry-on bag in the time it takes existing technology to
show a single view. Software algorithms process these images automatically
detecting explosives and liquids. This represents a major step forward for
checkpoint security.



aTiX is based on the technology used in EDtS (Explosive Detection Tomography
System), the Smiths Detection multi-view X-ray system for checked luggage. Both
systems are described in the US as AT equipment - a term used to describe
advanced X-ray technologies. This contract is the first time AT machines have
been approved for checkpoints.



aTiX will be complemented by other new concepts, also developed by Smiths
Detection, that will smooth the process of screening carry-on bags as part of
the package for BAA. These include automatic tray return systems that minimise
operator handling of trays, speed the movement of non-threat bags and divert
suspicious bags down a separate channel for further investigation. 



The deal - which is Smiths Detection's biggest ever UK airport contract with the
initial roll-out potentially worth over £20 million - includes other advanced
security technologies.



Interest in aTiX machines by airport authorities is intense and most advanced in
both the UK and in the US where aTiX has been involved in major trials.



Stephen Phipson, Group Managing Director of Smiths Detection, said: 'This is an
important contract that will have global implications for aviation security. BAA
has taken a lead in passenger processing through its fundamental reappraisal of
the screening process and setting a standard that other airports are soon likely
to follow.



'Working with BAA we will achieve several goals, including considerably enhanced
security and improved passenger throughput, while reducing operator workload.'



Ian Hutcheson, Director of Security for BAA, said: 'This strategic partnership
with Smiths Detection is a groundbreaking agreement which will lead to enhanced
security standards at all BAA airports.



'The contract will enable us to work in collaboration with Smiths Detection to
ensure continuous improvement in screening systems, including the application of
the very latest technologies.



'Heathrow Terminal 5 has been built with the passenger in mind and the first
application of the automated checkpoint system alongside aTiX is a clear
fulfilment of our aim to improve our security processes.'



Smiths Detection is the world's leading provider of threat and contraband
detection systems.  Smiths Detection's technology is deployed at 85 per cent of
the world's airports.

ENDS







HI-SCAN 6040aTiX

The HI-SCAN 6040aTiX is a high-performance multi-view X-ray inspection system
that in real-time automatically detects and pinpoints explosives as well as
liquid substances in carry-on baggage. It uses technology based on Smiths
Detection's hold baggage screening systems.





About Smiths Detection

Smiths Detection is part of the global technology business Smiths Group. It
offers advanced integrated security solutions for customers in civil and
military markets worldwide and is a leading technology developer and
manufacturer of sensors that detect and identify explosives, chemical and
biological agents, weapons, and contraband. Its advanced technology security
solutions also include Smiths Heimann X-ray imaging systems, millimeter-wave
technology and a specialist software supply business for the management of large
sensor and video surveillance networks. Separate business units focus on related
products for the life sciences, and food manufacturing industries. For more
information visit www.smithsdetection.com



About Smiths Group

Smiths is a global technology company listed on the London Stock Exchange.  A
world leader in the practical application of advanced technologies, Smiths Group
delivers products and services for the threat & contraband detection, medical
devices, energy and communications markets worldwide.  Our products and services
make the world safer, healthier and more productive.  Smiths Group employs more
than 20,000 people in over 50 countries. For more information visit
www.smiths.com





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