What Smiths Detection does

Smiths Detection, headquartered in Hemel Hempstead, UK, designs and manufactures advanced threat detection and screening technologies for aviation, ports and borders, urban security and defence customers worldwide. Its product portfolio spans computed tomography (CT) hold-baggage and cabin-baggage scanners (HI-SCAN 6040 CTiX, SDX 10080 SCT, CTX 9800 DSi, HI-SCAN 10080 XCT), X-ray diffraction substance-identification systems (SDX 10060 XDi), dual-view cargo X-ray systems (HI-SCAN 145180-2is pro, HI-SCAN 180180-2is pro), high-energy vehicle and container inspection portals (HCVP, HCVM, HCVG, HCVS, HCVT), trace detectors (IONSCAN 600), chemical and biological detectors (LCD 4, BioFlash, MailGuard), and people-screening systems (B-SCAN). It follows a platform-plus-modules architecture in which certified hardware is monetised alongside software add-ons such as iCMORE AI-driven detection, Checkpoint.Evoplus checkpoint management, iLane automated tray handling, MatriX Server image distribution and the UrbanAware CBRN simulation platform. As of the financial year ending 31 July 2025, the business generated headline operating profit of £122m and headline EBITDA of £160m, with notable deployments including 300+ X-ray systems at Frankfurt Airport over a 35-year relationship, 2,000+ HI-SCAN 6040 CTiX units shipped across 100+ airports, and contracts in defence, customs and port settings across more than 20 countries.

Name

Smiths Detection

Legal name

Smiths Detection Group Ltd.

Website

https://smithsdetection.com

Company type

Private

Founded year

1970

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

1,001–5,000 employees

Short description

Smiths Detection designs and manufactures advanced X-ray, CT, trace and AI-powered threat-detection and screening systems for airports, ports, customs, defence and urban-security operators globally.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

Security Screening Equipment

NAICS

Search, Detection, Navigation, Guidance, Aeronautical, and Nautical System and Instrument Manufacturing (334511), Navigational, Measuring, Electromedical, and Control Instruments Manufacturing (33451)

SIC

X-Ray Apparatus & Tubes & Related Irradiation Apparatus (3844), Industrial Instruments For Measurement, Display, And Control (3823), Laboratory Analytical Instruments (3826)

akta.pro primary industry

Hold Baggage & Cargo Screening Services (BPAKAMAB)

akta.pro secondary industries

Inspection, Checkweighing & Detection Systems (Vision, Metal, X-ray) (IMALAOAH), Radiation Detection Instruments & Systems (Portal monitors, spectrometers, contamination monitors) (EUAKAIAK)

Keywords

• Security screening systems
• Explosives detection equipment
• Airport security technology
• Cargo inspection systems
• CBRNe detection solutions

Headquarters

HQ city

London

HQ country

United Kingdom

HQ region

Europe

Offices8 records

Markets served

GTM type

B2B

Offering type

Hardware or Manufacturing

Cost components

Technology or R&D, Supply Chain, Personnel, Operations, Marketing or Sales, Infrastructure

Revenue model

1. Security Screening Hardware: Sale of X-ray scanners, CT systems, trace detectors, and cargo inspection equipment. Major products include HI-SCAN 6040 CTiX checkpoint scanners, SDX 10080 SCT hold baggage systems, HCVP/HCVM cargo scanners, and IONSCAN trace detectors. Revenue from equipment sales represents the primary revenue stream.
2. Software and Detection Algorithms: Revenue from software products including iCMORE automatic detection algorithms, checkpoint management software (Checkpoint.Evoplus), and system management platforms (incent.control, MatriX Server). Software can be integrated into hardware systems or sold separately.
3. Service and Aftermarket: Comprehensive service offerings including maintenance, technical support, training, spare parts and consumables. Service contracts including five-year agreements mentioned in case studies. Responsible disposal services for end-of-life equipment. Full integration of Med Graphix acquired for service component repair and refurbishment.

Go-to-market motion1 record

Distribution channels4 records

Marketing channels7 records

Core offering

Smiths Detection designs, manufactures, and services advanced threat detection and security screening solutions for aviation, ports and borders, urban security, and defence markets. The portfolio spans CT-based hold and cabin baggage explosives detection systems, X-ray diffraction scanners, high-energy cargo and vehicle inspection systems, trace detectors, chemical/biological threat identifiers, and AI-powered automatic target recognition software. These offerings are delivered as integrated hardware, software, and aftermarket service packages to airports, customs authorities, defence agencies, and critical infrastructure operators globally.

Product overview

Smiths Detection is a global leader in threat detection and screening technologies offering a comprehensive portfolio of security solutions organized across four market sectors: Aviation, Ports and Borders, Urban Security, and Defence. The product portfolio includes CT-based hold baggage and cabin baggage screening systems (HI-SCAN 6040 CTiX, SDX 10080 SCT, CTX 9800 DSi), X-ray diffraction scanners for material identification (SDX 10060 XDi), high-energy cargo and vehicle inspection systems (HCVM, HCVP, HCVG, HCVS, HCVT), trace detection equipment for explosives and narcotics (IONSCAN 600, LCD 4), biological threat detection (BioFlash, MailGuard), people screening (B-SCAN), and AI-powered software solutions (iCMORE family including APIDS, UrbanAware CBRN platform). These products are supported by checkpoint management platforms (Checkpoint.Evoplus, iLane tray handling systems), image analysis and system management software (DaiSy, incent.view, incent.control, MatriX Server, MUX), and accessories (UV light modules, Sneeze Guards). The portfolio follows a platform-plus-modules architecture where core screening hardware is complemented by software add-ons, lane automation, and integration services. The company serves airports, customs authorities, ports, stadiums, defence organizations, and critical infrastructure operators worldwide.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Brands

• HI-SCAN: X-ray and CT scanner product line for baggage, cargo, and people screening
• CTX
• SDX
• HCV
• IONSCAN
• LCD
• iCMORE
• iLane
• BioFlash
• UrbanAware

Products and services

• HI-SCAN 6040 CTiX Advanced CT (Computed Tomography) scanner for cabin baggage screening with 3D imaging and AI-driven automatic explosives detection. Deployed at airport security checkpoints to enable frictionless travel.
• SDX 10080 SCT Next-generation hold baggage and air cargo screening system built on a common EDS platform. Features dual-energy CT technology processing over 1,800 bags per hour with optional dual-view line scanner. ECAC EDS Standard 3.1 approved.
• SDX 10060 XDi X-ray diffraction scanner providing highly accurate material discrimination and substance identification for exceptional detection of powders, liquids, and solids in high-volume security settings.
• CTX 9800 DSi High-speed CT explosives detection system (EDS) suitable for identifying threats in checked baggage and cargo packages. ECAC Standard 3 approved and TSA certified.
• HI-SCAN 10080 XCT Advanced CT explosives detection system for hold baggage and air cargo with dual-view dual-energy X-ray line scanner and full 3D volumetric CT imaging. TSA 7.2 certified and ECAC EDS Standard 3.1 compliant, screening up to 2,500 parcels per hour.
• HI-SCAN 145180-2is pro Fast air cargo screening system meeting demand for high turnaround, security levels, and attractive total cost of ownership.
• HCVP Automatic drive-through scanner portal for continuous vehicle flow inspection of vehicles and containers at ports and border crossings.
• HCVM Mobile X-ray System Mobile high-energy X-ray cargo vehicle inspection system available as mobile cargo vehicle or trailer, deployable in under 20 minutes. Optimizes security checks at airports, ports and borders.
• HCVG Gantry inspection system providing side view images of inspected vehicles with material discrimination for easy assessment of cargo and vehicle contents in a single scan.
• HCVS Stationary inspection system providing analysis of both the sides and top of an inspected vehicle using material discrimination to reduce manual inspection.
• IONSCAN 600 Highly sensitive, non-radioactive, lightweight, portable desktop system that detects and identifies trace amounts of explosives and narcotics using ion mobility spectrometry.
• LCD 4 Rugged, reliable chemical-warfare agent identifier and TIC (Toxic Industrial Chemical) detector. Most widely deployed detector of chemical warfare agents globally, in continuous production for over 25 years.
• BioFlash Biological Identifier Mobile, high-sensitivity biothreat detector providing rapid biological aerosol collection and identification in a compact unit for defence and mailroom applications.
• B-SCAN Non-invasive people screening series detecting objects and threats concealed in or on the body using transmission X-ray technology for urban security and public venues.
• UrbanAware CBRN Platform Next-generation CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear) simulation and modelling platform co-developed with Riskaware. Combines real-time hazard data, predictive modelling, threat visualisation and instant alerts for situational awareness.
• Checkpoint.Evoplus Advanced screening and management platform that integrates components and sensors into a single, intelligent solution to advance checkpoint efficiency.
• iCMORE AI-Powered Detection Family of AI-powered automatic target recognition applications for threat detection in cargo, baggage, and palleted goods. Includes iCMORE APIDS, iCMORE Lithium Batteries, iCMORE Dangerous Goods, and iCMORE Weapons modules certified to ECAC APIDS Standard 1.

Quantifiable outcome

• 21 HI-SCAN 6040 CTiX units at Frankfurt Terminal 3 handling 19-25 million passengers annually
• +4 more outcomes

Named customers7 records

Segments5 records

Ideal customer profiles3 records

Technology focussed Yes

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Integration2 records

AI capability4 records

Feature9 records

Partnerships

Nine partnerships are on record, tiered strategic, core and minor.

• METCOstrategicStrategic or Co-development Partner · 17 February 2026Localization agreements signed at World Defense Show to localize surveillance, monitoring, and defence systems in Saudi Arabia. Supported by General Authority for Military Industries to strengthen local supply chains, increase local content, and support workforce development aligned with Vision 2030.
• John S. PistolecoreOthers · 12 November 2025Former TSA Administrator and FBI Deputy Director appointed as Outside Director to Smiths Detection Inc. Board. Brings strategic guidance on global security risk, screening innovation, regulatory engagement, and transportation infrastructure protection.
• Med Graphix Inc.minorOEM/ Whitelabel/ Licensing Partner · 5 August 2025Acquisition of Med Graphix Inc., a New Jersey-based company, to enhance sustainable service offerings related to component repair, refurbishment, and reuse. Full integration expected by August 2025.
• Meridian Port Services (MPS)coreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ Distributor · 1 January 2019Partnership since 2019 for cargo screening at Port of Tema, Ghana. Deployed six HCVP Z60-D5 drive-through scanners with Data Management System. Ongoing expansion including two new HCVP Z60-DM systems and server architecture upgrades. Handles 90% of Ghana's containerised trade.
• Cassioli GroupcoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerJoint delivery of fully integrated checkpoint transformation at Bologna Airport. Cassioli provided Fast2Check automated tray-handling lanes while Smiths Detection supplied HI-SCAN 6040 CTiX CT scanners. Partnership enables complete checkpoint redesign optimizing layout, passenger flow, and operator ergonomics.
• RiskawarecoreStrategic or Co-development PartnerCo-development partnership for UrbanAware CBRN simulation and modelling platform. Combines Riskaware's CBRN/HazMat Information Management system with Smiths Detection's LCD 4 chemical detector for enhanced situational awareness and predictive threat modelling.
• Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects (DAEP)coreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorMulti-year deal to deploy next-generation CT security scanners across Dubai International Airport's three terminals. Major infrastructure modernization supporting frictionless travel experience at one of the world's busiest airports.
• Global Customs SolutionscoreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorSupported El Salvador Customs contract for high-energy cargo and vehicle X-ray inspection systems. Partner provided contract award support for HCVP and HCVM systems deployment.
• Incheon International Airport Corporation (IIAC)coreChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorAutomated Remote Baggage Screening System (IRBS) between South Korea and the United States. First fully automated international remote baggage screening system enabling improved baggage handling efficiency and passenger experience with expansion planned to additional US airports.

Scale indicators15 records

Recent moves7 records

Expansion highlights6 records

Direct peers

• Nuctech: Nuctech is a Chinese provider of cargo and vehicle inspection systems, hold and cabin baggage screening, and CBRN detection equipment. It is a direct competitor to Smiths' HCV cargo/vehicle and airport screening lines, particularly across emerging markets and Belt-and-Road deployments.
• Rapiscan Systems (OSI Systems): Rapiscan is the closest direct competitor to Smiths Detection, manufacturing X-ray, CT, and trace detection screening systems for airports, ports, and borders globally. Both vendors compete head-to-head on ECAC and TSA-certified EDS platforms, hold baggage and air cargo inspections.
• L3Harris Technologies (Detection segment): L3Harris ClearScan, ProVision and security detection portfolio directly competes with Smiths on checked-baggage EDS, cabin baggage screening, and people screening at aviation checkpoints. Both companies are large, certified defense and aviation security primes.

Broad incumbents

• Thales: Thales provides aviation security, border management, and critical infrastructure solutions, including hold baggage EDS and customs technology. It competes with Smiths on European aviation and large defense/government modernization programs.
• Leidos: Leidos Security Detection & Automation offers aviation checkpoint, baggage screening, and automated people screening solutions. As a large US defense and IT services prime, it competes with Smiths on US government, TSA, and airport deployments.
• Teledyne FLIR Defense: Teledyne FLIR supplies CBRNe detection, integrated security, and threat detection products for defense and homeland security customers. It overlaps with Smiths' LCD 4 chemical detection and UrbanAware CBRN platform offerings, particularly for military customers.

Others

• Vanderlande (Toyota Industries): Vanderlande provides baggage handling systems integrated with security screening lanes at airports. It complements Smiths Detection's screening technology at the checkpoint and hold baggage system level (e.g., Cassioli-style lane integration partnerships).

Emerging players

• Astrophysics Inc. Astrophysics manufactures X-ray inspection systems for airports, cargo, and critical infrastructure, including high-energy mobile platforms. It is a focused, mid-sized competitor to Smiths in cargo, vehicle and mobile X-ray screening.
• IDS (International Detection Systems): IDS is a focused X-ray and trace detection provider serving ports, borders, and critical infrastructure. It overlaps with Smiths' HCV cargo scanners, IONSCAN trace detection, and urban security screening portfolios.
• Analogic Corporation: Analogic designs CT-based explosives detection systems (e.g., Checkpoint CT) used at aviation security checkpoints. It is a smaller, focused peer in cabin baggage and hold baggage CT screening, overlapping with Smiths' HI-SCAN and SDX product lines.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat6 records

Key risks6 records

Key highlights7 records

Customer concentration

• YouTubeyoutube.com/channel/UCvPcFTppHscxEYSdzUUvohw
• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/smiths-detection
• Xx.com/smithsdetection

Compliance17 records

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles15 records

Subsidiaries7 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A4 records

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about Smiths Detection