Tuesday, December 16, 2008

AS&E makes $2.8M X-ray detection van deal

By Brendan Lynch

American Science and Engineering Inc. reports it has landed $2.8 million from an unnamed Middle Eastern government for its X-ray detection vans.

Under the deal, AS&E (Nasdaq: ASEI) will deliver multiple Z Backscatter Vans to be used to secure government facilities and mobile checkpoints. The vans will be configured for harsh environments. AS&E will also provide operator training, service and warranty.

The Z Backscatter Van is a mobile X-ray screening system built into a standard commercial van, intended to allow for “drive-by” inspection. One or two operators can conduct X-ray imaging while the ZBV drives past suspicious vehicles and objects. A remote console is also available for operating the system from a distance of up to 500 meters while the van is parked, the company said.

In October AS&E won a $4.4 million order from an unnamed department of the U.S. government for its Z Backscatter vans.

In mid-September, AS&E received a $22.1 million dollar contract from the U.S. Army for maintenance on cargo and vehicle inspection systems located in southwestern Asia. Earlier that month, AS&E landed another $12.5 million service, maintenance, training and parts order for its Z Backscatter van, OmniView Gantry inspection system and the Z Portal screening system. The multiple cargo system order was also for an unnamed Middle East government client.

Billerica-based AS&E reported a 2008 net income of $17.5 million on revenue of $166.7 million.