Watford, UK -- Smiths Detection, part of the global technology business Smiths Group, has been awarded a pound2.2 million contract to supply Lightweight Chemical Detectors (LCD) to the Norwegian Armed Forces.

The deal follows an initial contract for LCDs, valued at pound1.8 million, awarded to Smiths Detection in 2005. It extends the protection of Norway's military personnel against chemical warfare agents.

The Norwegian Defence Logistics Organisation executed the follow-on option after extensive competitive trials. The LCD can detect a wide range of chemical warfare agents including nerve, blister, blood and choking agents.

Smiths Detection, a world-leading provider of x-ray technology and systems that detect and identify chemicals, biological threats and explosives, has developed LCD as a compact, rugged, wearable device designed to provide an additional layer of safety and protection for troops. The latest contract makes Norway the largest user of the LCD, outside the UK.

Stephen Phipson, Group Managing Director of Smiths Detection, said: "This new contract is a testimony to the quality of the product. It had to come through the very tough and thorough testing procedures which have established Norway as one of the world's most respected authorities on NBC protection.

"Our success here is an important indicator to NATO countries of the role of LCD in helping to save the lives of troops."

Smiths Detection has been supplying Norway's Military Forces with chemical detection equipment since 1990 and has additionally supplied LCDs to the country's police and fire services. Josi Tech AS represented Smiths Detection in the Norwegian contract negotiations.

The LCD is a non-radioactive chemical warfare agent point detector that automatically alerts service personnel to the presence of both chemical warfare agents and toxic industrial chemicals, also identifying and quantifying the substances involved. The LCD can be worn by individuals or mounted in various forms of military transportation such as wheeled or tracked vehicles, aircraft and ships.

Smiths Detection
15.12.2006