BAA buys L-3 screening machines for Heathrow airport

The Security and Detection Systems subsidiary of New York-based L-3 Communications (NYSE: LLL) has received an order from BAA to provide explosives detection equipment at London Heathrow Airport (LHR) Terminal 5 (T5). Twenty-one MVT-HR (Multi-View Tomography — High Resolution) and six eXaminer 3DX systems will be integrated into an advanced baggage handling system to screen checked baggage for British Airways. “When it opens, T5 will be one of the most advanced and passenger-friendly terminals in the world,” said Ian Hutcheson, director of security at BAA. “Used together, the MVT-HRs and eXaminers will provide an additional layer of security without disrupting the flow of bags.”

L-3 won the contract in a competitive bid process. This order is but the latest in a series of BAA purchases of L-3 technology, including more than 100 VIS systems deployed throughout the United Kingdom at seven BAA airports.

L-3 says its MVT-HR X-ray screening system is capable of screening 1,800 bags per hour, which is the highest throughput available for explosives screening system today. The eXaminer explosives detection system (EDS) is a CT system certified by the U.S. Transportation Security Administration (TSA) for automated explosives detection. L-3 Security & Detection Systems offers a broad range of systems and technology, and has an installed base of more than 18,000 systems world-wide.

-read more in this news release; see company Web site for specifications of eXaminer 3DX| MVT-HR | VIS