Airport security checkpoint. (photo via Chalabala/iStock/Getty Images Plus)

Starting this summer, the?Transportation Security Administration?(TSA) has ordered over $1 billion worth of Computed Tomography (CT) scanners for deployment across United States airport checkpoints.

The three combined orders will have a total value of up to $1.3 billion and include up to 426 base (sold by Analogic Corporation), 359 mid-size (IDSS Holdings) and 429 full-size CT units (Smiths Detection Incorporated) if all options are exercised.

¡°These CT units represent sophisticated technology that helps our professional, dedicated and highly skilled workforce detect new and evolving threats to improve aviation security,¡± TSA Administrator David Pekoske said.

¡°Deploying these units across our security checkpoints as expeditiously as possible will also improve checkpoint efficiency and the passenger experience,¡± Pekoske continued.

The CT scanners apply algorithms to create 3-D rotatable images that help TSA agents detect explosives and prohibited items. Officers can view and rotate the photos to analyze and identify threatening items in a passenger¡¯s carry-on baggage.

The new equipment will be sized to fit the checkpoint environment, but will utilize the same technology currently used to scan checked baggage.

Last year, the TSA announced two orders for a combined total value of up to $781.2 million to Analogic for the procurement and maintenance of up to 469 base and 469 full-size CT x-ray systems.

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