CBP Orders First MobileSearch HE Systems for Port and Border Security Applications

BILLERICA, Mass. — American Science and Engineering, Inc. (AS&E®) (NASDAQ: ASEI), a leading worldwide supplier of innovative X-ray detection solutions, announced today the receipt of a $9.1 million order from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) for multiple MobileSearch™ HE (High-Energy) cargo and vehicle inspection systems equipped with both high-energy transmission and proprietary Z Backscatter™ X-ray imaging for detecting threats and contraband including weapons, explosives, drugs, and currency.

“We are pleased to provide CBP with AS&E’s MobileSearch HE systems to support their counter-drug and anti-terrorism programs,” said Anthony Fabiano, AS&E’s President and CEO. “MobileSearch HE offers flexible and rapid response at seaports, border crossings, and other high threat checkpoints. The system’s combination of technologies offers the unique capability to simultaneously detect both metallic and organic threats in cargo — providing detailed information about the contents of the cargo.”

This contract was funded by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) for Non-Intrusive Inspection (NII) equipment — enhancing border security by expanding U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) capabilities to scan commercial traffic for contraband through X-ray and other imaging technologies.

AS&E’s MobileSearch HE Cargo and Vehicle Inspection System:

High-Energy Inspection Plus Z Backscatter Imaging in Highly Mobile Configuration

The MobileSearch HE system offers two complementary imaging technologies integrated in one system. Its 4.5 MeV high energy transmission X-ray generates high penetration and high resolution images for the inspection of densely loaded cargo, with typical penetration over 12 inches (300 mm) of steel. The system also utilizes Z Backscatter X-ray imaging to assist in the identification of organics for improved detection of explosive threats and other organic contraband. Z Backscatter technology offers the additional benefits of photo-like images and improved image analysis time, as well as a wide field of view with no tire or ground cutoff unlike transmission X-rays — allowing for the effective scanning of passenger vehicles and tires.

For added flexibility, the system offers multiple scan modes for high speed scanning of passenger vehicles or oversized or odd-shaped cargo, allowing the operational flexibility of the Z Backscatter™ Van — in either “drive-by” mode to scan stationary objects, or “portal” mode to scan vehicles as they drive past the system. The MobileSearch HE system also features a unique integrated cab design that enables the drivers and operators to be in the same spacious cabin for improved communications and comfort.

About AS&E®

American Science and Engineering, Inc. (AS&E) is the leading worldwide supplier of innovative X-ray inspection systems. With over 50 years of experience in developing advanced X-ray security systems, the Company’s product line utilizes a combination of technologies, including patented Z Backscatter technology, Radioactive Threat Detection (RTD), high energy transmission and dual energy transmission X-ray. These technologies offer superior X-ray threat detection for plastic explosives, plastic weapons, liquid explosives, dirty bombs and nuclear devices. AS&E’s complete range of products include cargo inspection systems for port and border security, baggage screening systems for facility and aviation security, and personnel and passenger screening systems. AS&E systems protect high-threat facilities and help combat terrorism and trade fraud, drug smuggling, weapon smuggling, and illegal immigration and people smuggling. AS&E customers include leading government agencies, border authorities, military bases, airports and corporations worldwide, including the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), HM Revenue & Customs (U.K.), Hong Kong Customs, and Abu Dhabi Customs. For more information on AS&E products and technologies, please visit www.as-e.com.

Safe Harbor Statement. The foregoing press release contains statements concerning AS&E’s financial performance, markets and business operations that may be considered “forward-looking” under applicable securities laws. AS&E wishes to caution readers of this press release that actual results might differ materially from those projected in any forward-looking statements. Factors which might cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements contained herein include the following: significant reductions or delays in procurements of the Company’s systems by the United States and other governments; disruption in the supply of any source component incorporated into AS&E’s products; litigation seeking to restrict the use of intellectual property used by the Company; potential product liability claims against the Company; global political trends and events which affect public perception of the threat presented by drugs, explosives and other contraband; global economic developments and the ability of governments and private organizations to fund purchases of the Company’s products to address such threats; and the potential insufficiency of Company resources, including human resources, capital, plant and equipment and management systems, to accommodate any future growth, and future delays in federal funding. These and certain other factors which might cause actual results to differ materially from those projected are detailed from time to time in AS&E’s periodic reports and registration statements filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which important factors are incorporated herein by reference. AS&E undertakes no obligation to update forward looking statements to reflect changed assumptions, the occurrence of unanticipated events, or changes in future operating results, financial condition or business over time.