Smiths Detection has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Optosecurity to develop and distribute an advanced Checkpoint Enterprise Software Solution.

The MOU allows Smiths Detection and Optosecurity, a Canadian threat management technology company, to begin further negotiations aimed at reaching a formal agreement on the solution which improves the performance and cuts operational costs of security checkpoints.

This is the second such arrangement between the two companies, following a cooperation agreement initiated last year for Optoscreener, a detection software which, when combined with Smiths Detection checkpoint X-ray systems, enables the detection of liquid explosives.

Smiths Detection vice president of products Rod Wilson said: “The MOU demonstrates the strong working relationship that our two companies have developed. The agreement will eventually leverage our global base of checkpoint products including X-rays, trace detectors, full body screening devices, and bottle screeners for liquid explosives with Optosecurity’s advanced technology solutions, software development, and rapid implementation capabilities.”

Smiths Detection offers advanced security solutions in civil and military markets worldwide, developing and manufacturing government-regulated technology products that help detect and identify explosives, chemical and biological agents, radiological and nuclear threats, weapons, narcotics and contraband. It is part of Smiths Group, a global leader in applying integrated, advanced technologies to markets in threat and contraband detection, energy, medical devices, communications and engineered components. Smiths Group employs around 23,000 people in more than 50 countries.

Based in Quebec, Canada, Optosecurity provides operational efficiency and threat detection solutions for checkpoint security in airports and other critical infrastructure environments. Optosecurity is the first in the world to enable centralised remote screening of hand luggage and provides threat detection software that enables the automated detection of liquid explosives and other threats.

Optosecurity solutions are certified by the European Civil Aviation Conference as well as other regulating entities. Founded in 2003 and headquartered in Quebec, Canada, Optosecurity is a technology spin-off from Canada’s National Optics Institute, a world-class center of expertise in optics and photonics.