Fight Against Terrorism Accelerates Demand in U.S. Explosive Detection Systems Market

Dec. 16, 2004
Market still struggles against high costs, long line queues

The explosive detection systems (EDS) market has been rapidly developing with consistent growth rates. The 9/11 attacks and the subsequent efforts to contain terrorist activity, including the Congress mandate to check all luggage at airports have propelled the EDS segment from a niche market to a global one.

Despite the accelerated pace of development, widespread adoption of EDS, outside of airports, is not a common phenomenon due to the very high investment and maintenance involved.

New analysis from Frost & Sullivan (www.defense.frost.com), U.S. Explosive Detection Systems Markets, reveals that this market generated revenue of $219 million in 2004 and projects to reach $595 million in 2009.

EDS equipment is largely purchased by governments who can afford to bear the exorbitant costs involved in upkeep of these systems, which outweighs even initial investment. The market expansion will be restrained, unless participants lower costs of equipment and expenses involved in subsequent maintenance.

The airport market will benefit by increasing investment in advanced explosive detection equipment. Currently deployed inefficient bulk detectors are expected to be automated and moved inline, resulting in increased savings and efficiency.

"A move toward sleeker and cheaper detection units to check carry-on luggage for explosives is expected, unlike the current random checks done only for select luggage," explains Frost & Sullivan industry analyst Matthew A. Farr. "Explosive-sensitive walk-through portals will also be installed, scanning each traveler for explosives on his/her person."

A reduction in costs would also aid in expanding market size and shifting focus from airports -- the largest segment of end uses for such equipment -- to military and state buildings that employ a few such systems. Locations such as police stations, federal buildings, mass transit areas, ports, and borders also require detection capabilities.

The waiting time imposed on the public is another factor, which is restraining widespread acceptance of screening. Locations such as mass transit areas are easy targets, but screening has been deferred due to common apprehension for long queues.

"People must be able to pass through the detection machine with little to no realization of what just happened," observes Farr. "EDS must reach a level of speed and reliability where passengers pay scant attention to the machine."

Hence, technical innovations to reduce inefficiencies and false alarms, as well as increase speed are important to gain acceptance and increase EDS implementation.

A virtual brochure, which provides manufacturers, end-users and other industry participants an overview of the latest analysis of the U.S. Explosive Detection Systems Markets, is available by sending email to Melina Gonzalez - Corporate Communications at [email protected] with the following information: full name, company name, title, telephone number, fax number and email. Upon receipt of the above information, an overview will be sent via e-mail.