Smiths Detection, part of global technology business Smiths Group, has landed a major contract worth over 100 million euros ($133.3 million) for supply of the main security scanning systems at the New Doha International Airport (NDIA).

The big Qatari order to equip one of the world’s most advanced airports includes a wide range of automatic x-ray and trace detection systems to screen passengers, hand luggage and checked-in bags for explosives, weapons and contraband, the company said in a statement.

This is the biggest single-airport contract Smiths Detection has ever won, said a top company official.

"NDIA’s choice of Smiths Detection for its main security contract is testament to the quality, reliability and cost-effectiveness of our world-leading technologies," remarked Smiths Detection president Mal Maginnis.

"The award was received after intensive and long work in close co-operation with Smiths Detection’s local representative Qatar Security Systems Company (QSS)," he stated.

The first expansion phase of NDIA, which will be 12 times the size of old Doha facility, is due to be completed in early 2013. The new airport will eventually be able to handle 24 million passengers and two million tonnes of cargo a year.

The equipment to be supplied to the new Doha airport includes Hi-Scan 10080 EDX-2is, Hi-Scan 130100T, Hi-Scan 7555aTix including iLane Systems and the 500DT trace detectors. Deliveries are already under way, said Maginnis.

The UK-based Smiths Detection offers advanced security solutions in civil and military markets worldwide, developing and manufacturing government-regulated technology products that help detect, identify explosives, chemical and biological agents, radiological and nuclear threats, weapons, narcotics and contraband.

'We are very proud to play a central role in such an important transport hub in one of the world’s most dynamic regions,' Maginnis added.-TradeArabia News Service