The Transportation Security Administration (TSA), which was recognized with a Platinum Award in the 2021 ‘ASTORS’ Awards Program for ‘Excellence in National Security for Traveler Security Management,’ has awarded two orders for a combined total value of up to $781.2 million to Analogic for the procurement and maintenance of base and full-size Computed Tomography (CT) x-ray systems for carry-on items at TSA checkpoints.

What is CT?

CT is the latest checkpoint X-ray scanning equipment to enhance threat detection capabilities for carry-on baggage. The technology is similar to CT technology used in the medical field and research shows that CT is the most consequential technology available today for airport checkpoints.

TSA’s current screening technology for carry-on bags uses 2-D images.

The CT technology applies sophisticated algorithms for the detection of explosives and other threats by creating a 3-D image that can be viewed and rotated 360 degrees for a thorough analysis.

If a bag requires further screening, TSA officers will inspect it to ensure there are no prohibited items inside.

Advantages of CT

CT technology provides enhanced detection of threat items. Like existing CT technology used for checked baggage, the machines create such a clear picture of a bag’s contents that computers can automatically detect explosives, including liquids.

In the future, the goal is to keep laptops and 3-1-1 liquids inside of the bag during checkpoint screening. Under current screening procedures for this technology, laptops are allowed to remain inside the bag for screening.

(See how Analogic’s Checkpoint CT screening systems offer airports the highest level of threat detection and dramatically better passenger throughput and reliability. CT has become the gold standard for high-speed automatic threat detection screening for checked luggage at airports worldwide, so why not at the checkpoint? Courtesy of Analogic and YouTube.)

The awards are one element in the larger effort by TSA to improve checkpoint security screening.

The two orders were awarded to procure up to 469 base units, and 469 full-size systems, and the TSA anticipates beginning deployment of base and full-size systems to airport checkpoints in the summer of 2022.

CT scanners apply sophisticated algorithms to detect weapons, explosives, and other prohibited items by creating 3-D images of carry-on items.

TSA officers can then view and rotate the image on three axes to analyze and identify any threat items that may be in a passenger’s baggage, and similar to what is used to scan checked baggage, this equipment is sized to fit the checkpoint environment.

Full-size CT systems feature fully automated screening lanes with parallel divestiture stations, automated bin return, and high threat containment, to allow for greater passenger throughput.

“These awards are another important step in enhancing aviation security,” explains TSA Administrator David Pekoske,

“They provide our dedicated frontline officers with one of the best tools available to screen passenger carry-on items and also improves the passenger experience by allowing passengers to keep more items in their carry-on bags during the screening process.”

In August 2021, TSA announced the award of $198 million to Analogic Corporation for the procurement of mid-size CT x-ray systems, which are currently being installed at TSA checkpoints across the country.

Analogic base units, mid-size, and full-size CT systems are now on the Acceptable Capabilities List and available for donation via the Capabilities Acceptance Process.

To Learn More, please visit the TSA at www.tsa.gov.

TSA Recognized in 2021 ‘ASTORS’ Homeland Security Awards Program

American Security Today’s Annual ‘ASTORS’ Awards is the preeminent U.S. Homeland Security Awards Program, and now in its Seventh Year, continues to recognize industry leaders of Physical and Border Security, Cybersecurity, Emergency Preparedness – Management and Response, Law Enforcement, First Responders, as well as federal, state and municipal government agencies in the acknowledgment of their outstanding efforts to Keep our Nation Secure.

Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

• Excellence in National Security for Traveler Security Management

  • • • TSA Team Newark at
        Newark Liberty International Airport

• In recognition and with sincere appreciation of your exceptional contributions at Newark International Airport, in promoting the transportation security mission and outstanding dedication to the agency, stakeholders, and the traveling public. 

(On this the 20th Anniversary of the TSA, please join us in celebrating the fabulous work of this comprehensive and innovative agency in securing public transportation across our Nation, and keeping our citizens safe, one plane, train, bus, highway, and mass transit hub at a time. See selected highlights from the TSA’s 20th Anniversary event held at Ronald Reagan Airport on November 19, 2021. Courtesy of the TSA and YouTube.)

Also Recognized in 2021 ‘ASTORS’…

TSA Administrator David Pekoske

2021 ‘ASTORS’ Extraordinary Government Leadership & Innovation Person of the Year

• TSA Administrator David Pekoske was confirmed by the U.S. Senate as the Transportation Security Administration’s seventh administrator in August 2017.

• He leads a workforce of approximately 60,000 employees, including the Federal Air Marshal Service (FAMS), and is responsible for security operations at nearly 450 airports throughout the United States and shared security for highways, railroads, ports, mass transit systems, and pipelines.

• Under the Administrator’s leadership, TSA is working continuously to raise the security baseline for both aviation and surface transportation through close partnerships and alliances and a robust homeland security network.

• While continuing to serve as TSA Administrator, Pekoske also served at the Department of Homeland Security as Acting Secretary from January 20 to February 2, 2021, and as the Senior Official Performing the Duties of Deputy Secretary from April to November 2019 and again from February to June 2021.

• At the Department, Administrator Pekoske helped lead a unified national effort to ensure the continued security of the United States, coordinating components with missions ranging from prevention and protection to recovery and response.

(Hear more from Administrator Pekoske on his priorities for 2022, staying ahead of threats, supporting frontline employees, and protecting the traveling public. Courtesy of the TSA and YouTube.)

• Before joining TSA, Administrator Pekoske was an executive in the government services industry where he led teams that provided counterterrorism, security, and intelligence support services to government agencies.

• Most notably, Administrator Pekoske served as the 26th Vice Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard, culminating a Coast Guard career that included extensive operational and command experience.

• As the Vice Commandant, Pekoske was second in command, also serving as Chief Operating Officer and Component Acquisition Executive of the Coast Guard. He is a recognized expert in crisis management, strategic planning, innovation, and port and maritime security.

• Administrator Pekoske holds a Master of Public Administration degree from Columbia University and a Master of Business Administration degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in ocean engineering from the U.S. Coast Guard Academy.

• His awards include the Homeland Security Distinguished Service Medal, Coast Guard Distinguished Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, Coast Guard Commendation, and Achievement Medals.

And…

Gordon (Scott) Armstrong

• Excellence in National Security for Traveler Security Management

  • • • Aviation Program Branch
        Law Enforcement/Federal Air Marshal Service (FAMS)

• In recognition of the outstanding training and support the ‘Crew Member Self Defense Training Program‘ provided our industry partners.

• Through this training, TSA enhanced the safety and security of the traveling public and the flight crew members who serve them.

(Run. Hide. Fight. Everyone is familiar with how to deal with certain threats on the ground. But the rules are different at 35,000 feet. Take an inside look at how the TSA’s Federal Air Marshals Service is teaching airline crew members how to defend themselves – and the aircraft – from terrorists. Courtesy of the TSA and YouTube.)

The Annual ‘ASTORS’ Awards Program highlight the most cutting-edge and forward-thinking security solutions coming onto the market today, to ensure our readers have the information they need to stay ahead of the competition and keep our Nation Safe – one facility, street, and city at a time.

The United States was forever changed after the September 11th attacks, and we were fortunate to have many of those who responded to those horrific tragedies join us at the 2021 ‘ASTORS’ Awards Luncheon.

In the days that followed 9/11, the critical needs of protecting our country catapulted us into new and innovative ways to secure our homeland – which is how many of the agencies and enterprise organizations that are today ‘ASTORS’ Awards Champions, came into being.

Our 2021 keynote speaker featured a moving and informative address from TSA Administrator and Vice-Admiral of the United States Coast Guard (Ret), David Pekoske; to our attendees who traveled from across the United States and abroad, on the strategic priorities of the 64,000 member TSA workforce in securing the transportation system, enabling safe, and in many cases, contactless travel.

Legendary Police Commissioner William Bratton of the New York Police Department, the Boston Police Department, and former Chief of the Los Angeles Police Department was also live at the event, meeting with attendees and signing copies of his latest work ‘The Profession: A Memoir of Community, Race, and the Arc of Policing in America,’ courtesy of the generosity of our 2021 ‘ASTORS’ Awards Premier Sponsors.

The 2021 ‘ASTORS’ Awards Program was Proudly Sponsored by AMAROK, Fortior Solutions, and SIMS Software, along with Returning Premier Sponsors ATI Systems, Attivo Networks, Automatic Systems, and Reed Exhibitions.

The continually evolving ‘ASTORS’ Awards Program will emphasize the trail of Accomplished Women in Leadership in 2022, as well as the Significance and Positive Impact of Advancing Diversity and Inclusion in our Next Generation of Government and Industry Leaders. #MentorshipMatters

So be on the lookout for exciting upcoming announcements of Speakers, Presenters, Book Signing Opportunities, and Attendees at the 2022 ‘ASTORS’ Awards Presentation Luncheon in November of 2022 in New York City!

2022 ‘ASTORS’ Awards Program Welcomes New PLATINUM SPONSOR: NEC National Security Systems (NSS)!

Nominations are currently being accepted for the 2022 ‘ASTORS’ Homeland Security Awards at https://americansecuritytoday.com/ast-awards/.

Comprehensive List of Categories Include:

Access Control/ Identification	Personal/Protective Equipment	Law Enforcement Counter Terrorism
Perimeter Barrier/ Deterrent System	Interagency Interdiction Operation	Cloud Computing/Storage Solution
Facial/IRIS Recognition	Body Worn Video Product	Cyber Security
Video Surveillance/VMS	Mobile Technology	Anti-Malware
Audio Analytics	Disaster Preparedness	ID Management
Thermal/Infrared Camera	Mass Notification System	Fire & Safety
Metal/Weapon Detection	Rescue Operations	Critical Infrastructure
License Plate Recognition	Detection Products	COVID Innovations
Workforce Management	Government Security Programs	And Many Others to Choose From!

Don’t see a Direct Hit for your Product, Agency or Organization?

Submit your category recommendation for consideration to Michael Madsen, AST Publisher at: mmadsen@americansecuritytoday.com.

In 2021 over 200 distinguished guests representing Federal, State, and Local Governments, and Industry Leading Corporate Firms gathered from across North America, Europe, and the Middle East to be honored among their peers in their respective fields which included:

• The Transportation Security Administration (TSA)
• ICE Homeland Security Investigations (ICE HSI)
• Customs & Border Protection (CBP)
• The Federal Protective Service (FPS)
• Argonne National Laboratory (ANL)
• DHS Science & Technology (S&T)
• The National Center for Disaster Medicine & Public Health (NCDMPH)
• The American Red Cross
• The InfraGard National Alliance
• The Metropolitan Police (MPD)
• The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA)
• Naval Postgraduate School Center for Homeland Defense and Security (CHDS)
• The Federal Air Marshals Service
• The San Diego Harbor Police Foundation, and Many More!

Corporate firms, the majority of which return year to year to build upon their record of accomplishment include:

AlertMedia, Allied Universal, AMAROK, ATI Systems, Attivo Networks, Axis Communications, Automatic Systems of America, BriefCam, Canon U.S.A., Fortior Solutions, guardDog.ai, Hanwha Techwin of America, HID Global, Mark43, IPVideo Corporation, Konica Minolta Business Solutions, Lumina Analytics, NEC National Security Systems, NICE Public Safety, OnSolve, PureTech Systems, Quantum Corporation, Rave Mobile Safety, Regroup Mass Notification, Robotic Assistance Devices, Rajant Corporation, SafeLogic, Senstar Corporation, ShotSpotter, Singlewire Software, SolarWinds Worldwide, Teledyne FLIR, Valor Systems, and Wiresecure, just to name a few!

Why American Security Today?

The traditional security marketplace has long been covered by a host of publications putting forward the old school basics to what is Today – a fast-changing security landscape.

American Security Today is uniquely focused on the broader Homeland Security & Public Safety marketplace with over 75,000 readers at the Federal, State, and local levels of government as well as firms allied to the government.

American Security Today brings forward a fresh compelling look and read with our customized digital publications that hold readers’ eyes throughout the story with cutting-edge editorial that provides solutions to their challenges.

Harness the Power of the Web – with our 100% Mobile Friendly Publications

AST Digital Publications are distributed to over 75,000 qualified government and homeland security professionals, in federal, state, local, and private security sectors.

‘PROTECTING OUR NATION, ONE CITY AT A TIME’

AST Reaches both Private & Public Experts, essential to meeting these new challenges.

Today’s new generation of public safety and security experts need real-time knowledge to deal with domestic and international terrorism, lone wolf attacks, unprecedented urban violence, shifts in society, culture, and media bias – making it increasingly difficult for Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, First Responders, Military and Private Security Professionals to implement coordinated security measures to ensure national security and improve public safety.

These experts are from Government at the federal, state, and local levels as well as from private firms allied to the government.

AST provides a full plate of topics in our AST Monthly Magazine Editions, AST Website, and AST Daily News Alerts, covering 23 Vital Sectors such as Access Control, Perimeter Protection, Video Surveillance/Analytics, Airport Security, Border Security, CBRNE Detection, Border Security, Ports, Cybersecurity, Networking Security, Encryption, Law Enforcement, First Responders, Campus Security, Security Services, Corporate Facilities, and Emergency Response among others.

AST has Expanded readership into integral Critical Infrastructure audiences such as Protection of Nuclear Facilities, Water Plants & Dams, Bridges & Tunnels, and other potential targets of terrorism.

Other areas of concern include Transportation Hubs, Public Assemblies, Government Facilities, Sporting & Concert Stadiums, our Nation’s Schools & Universities, and Commercial Business Destinations – all enticing targets due to a large number of persons and resources clustered together.

(See just a few highlights of American Security Today’s 2021 ‘ASTORS’ Awards Presentation Luncheon at ISC East. Courtesy of My Pristine Images and Vimeo.)

To learn more about ‘ASTORS’ Homeland Security Award Winners solutions, please see the 2021 ‘ASTORS’ CHAMPIONS Edition Fully Interactive Magazine – the Best Products of 2021 ‘A Year in Review’.

The Annual CHAMPIONS edition includes a review of Annual  ‘ASTORS’ Award Winning products and programs, highlighting key details on many of the winning firm’s products and services, including video interviews and more.

It serves as your Go-To Source throughout the year for ‘The Best of 2021 Products and Services‘ endorsed by American Security Today, and can satisfy your agency’s and/or organization’s most pressing Homeland Security and Public Safety needs.

From Physical Security (Access Control, Critical Infrastructure, Perimeter Protection, and Video Surveillance Cameras and Video Management Systems), to IT Security (Cybersecurity, Encryption, Data Storage, Anti-Malware, and Networking Security – Just to name a few), the 2021 ‘ASTORS’ CHAMPIONS EDITION has what you need to Detect, Delay, Respond to, and Mitigate today’s real-time threats in our constantly evolving security landscape.

It also includes featured guest editorial pieces from some of the security industry’s most respected leaders, and recognized firms in the 2021 ‘ASTORS’ Awards Program.

• For a complete list of 2021 ‘ASTORS’ Award Winners, begin HERE.

For more information on All Things American Security Today, as well as the 2021 ‘ASTORS’ Awards Program, please contact Michael Madsen, AST Publisher at mmadsen@americansecuritytoday.com.

Learn More…

(See AST Exclusive Interview’ with TSA Administrator David Pekoske by Dr. Kathleen Kiernan, President of NEC NSS at the 2021 ‘ASTORS’ Awards Presentation Luncheon. Courtesy of AST, My Digital Images and Vimeo.)

AST strives to meet a 3 STAR trustworthiness rating, based on the following criteria:

• Provides named sources
• Reported by more than one notable outlet
• Includes supporting video, direct statements, or photos

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