BILLERICA, Mass., 10 July 2009. American Science and Engineering Inc. (AS&E) won an $8.6 million follow-on order from Abu Dhabi Customs Administration for multiple Z Portal X-ray screening systems. The Z Portal systems will be used to scan vehicles at a strategic border checkpoint in Abu Dhabi, the largest emirate of the United Arab Emirates. For maximum threat detection capability, the Z Portal systems will be configured with three Z Backscatter imaging modules for left, right, and top-down imaging of the vehicle, says a company representative.

Says Anthony Fabiano, president and CEO: "With this new order, the government of Abu Dhabi and the Custom Directorate of its Finance Department will secure additional borders in their ongoing mission to protect its citizens, facilitate trade, and collect revenues. Their comprehensive plan is focused on providing minimum trade restrictions with maximum security, utilizing the best and latest technologies and practices worldwide. We are delighted to play such an important role in safeguarding Abu Dhabi's ports and borders."

The Z Portal screening system is available with multi-view, drive-through screening for left, right, and top-down imaging of cars, vans, trucks, and cargo.

Z Portal's patented Z Backscatter technology produces photo-like images for superior detection capability of plastic and liquid explosives, narcotics, plastics weapons, drugs, stowaways, and alcohol.

The relocatable screening system is available in two sizes -- one for large trucks, buses, and cargo vehicles, and a smaller size for passenger vehicles.

Customers include U.S. Department of Defense, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and NATO.