Smiths Detection - Airport X-ray inspection and explosives detection systems

Smiths Detection today announces the formation of a combined company with its Indian sales and service partner, Veecon Systems, to maximise opportunities in one of the largest and fastest-growing security markets in the world.

Smiths Detection Veecon Systems Private Ltd will be majority owned by Smiths Detection, the world’s leading provider of government regulated security systems detecting chemical, biological, explosive, weapon and contraband threats.

Veecon founder JK Srivastava, who has built up its leading role in India’s aviation, infrastructure, homeland and military security markets in less than 10 years, will continue as Managing Director of the Delhi-based business.

Smiths Detection’s systems are deployed in all of India’s major airports and at more than 125 sites ranging from Government, police and court buildings to hotel chains and religious temples. The company, which also supplies the Indian military with biological and chemical protection equipment, won the prime contract for x-ray scanning and container inspection systems at the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi.

Stephen Phipson CBE, President of Smiths Detection, said: “JK has done a tremendous job for Smiths Detection in India, but the market is expanding at such a rate that the rationale for a combined company is now compelling. We are looking forward to building on our position as India’s leading supplier of detection solutions.”

JK Srivastava said: “I am delighted to be able to consolidate the support and goodwill established over the years in the Indian market. Combined with Smiths Detection’s strengths as a global leader in advanced security systems, the new company is well placed to scale even greater heights.”

Smiths Detection (www.smithsdetection.com) offers advanced security solutions in civil and military markets worldwide, developing and manufacturing government-regulated technology products that identify explosives, chemical and biological agents, weapons and contraband. It is part of Smiths Group (www.smiths.com), a global leader in applying advanced technologies to markets in threat as well as contraband detection, energy, medical devices, communications and engineered components. Smiths Group employs around 23,000 people in more than 50 countries.

Media Relations
Colin McSeveny
+44 (0)20 7808 5534