Feeding off an existing contract with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), Implant Sciences [IMSC] last week said it has received delivery orders from the agency for around 3,400 explosive trace detectors (ETDs) mainly for aviation security purposes.
The potential value of the task orders, including options, is $71.3 million with the initial obligation for $24.4 million for 1,353 of the company’s QS-B220 desktop ETDs.
In late 2014 TSA awarded Implant a nearly $162 million contract to supply it with desktop ETDs, an award that vaulted the company into the top tier of trace detection suppliers. The initial order was for more than 1,100 ETDs and was worth more than $20 million.
After that win, Implant began scoring impressive wins in Europe for its ETD technology, largely for aviation security applications.
Implant’s contract with TSA was delayed in part due to an unsuccessful protest by Safran Group’s Morpho Detection business, which along with Smiths Detection had been the primary supplier of the ETDs to the agency and many other customers worldwide. Smiths Detection has agreed to acquire Morpho Detection.
The new task order is for the ETDs, installation, consumables and warranty. The options for 2,073 additional ETDs also include the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center run by the Department of Homeland Security.
The ETDs are typically used as a secondary screening measure at aviation security checkpoints to screen passengers and their carry parcels for explosives, and in checked baggage screening operations to resolve alarms triggered when automated explosives detection systems alarm on a suspect bag.
Implant’s latest task order from TSA comes as the company is reviewing strategic alternatives for its trace detection business. Implant believes the future for screening technologies in airports will be integrated solutions, which is not the company’s strength.
Instead, Implant has agreed to acquire a French company, Zapata Industries, which makes a flying hoverboard and watersport craft. Implant believes the flying hoverboard has a wide range of military, security and consumer applications. The company also said the deal will help it eliminate its debt.