NATO to deploy AS&E x-ray system for checkpoint security

American Science and Engineering, Inc. (AS&E), of Billerica, MA, announced on June 29 that the NATO C3 Agency, based in Brussels, Belgium has awarded AS&E with a follow-on order for a multi-view x-ray screening portal, for use at a strategic security checkpoint.

The NATO C3 is a non-profit organization serving the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) with its Consultation, Command, Control, Communications, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (C4ISR) capabilities.

AS&E’ Z Portal system, for which NATO C3 awarded the follow-up order, is a comprehensive screening system providing multiple view, drive-through inspection of cars, vans, trucks and their cargo. The Z Backscatter technology is capable of detecting plastic and liquid explosives, narcotics, plastic weapons, drugs, stowaways and alcohol.

“This follow-on order from NATO’s NC3A agency once again demonstrates their satisfaction with the unique detection capabilities of the multi-view, drive-through Z Portal system,” said Anthony Fabiano, president and CEO of AS&E. “With photo-like imaging from three sides of the cargo, the Z Portal system offers a proven and safe method for high-throughput cargo screening to find hidden threats and contraband at NATO’s high-risk facilities and other checkpoints.”

The Z Portal can be ideal for high-traffic locations with space constraints and it is safe for drivers. Two versions of the portal exist, one for cars, the other for trucks. In addition to NATO, the U.S. Department of Defense, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and Abu Dhabi Customs count among AS&E customers.

AS&E has been supplying x-ray inspection systems for over 50 years. Its products include cargo inspection systems for port and border security, baggage screening systems for facility and aviation technology and personnel and passenger screening systems.