Funded by the Department for Transport and managed by Connected Places Catapult, the High Assurance Detection Systems (HADeS) 2026 programme will assess develop technologies and screening concepts to optimise the aviation checkpoint screening and enable the deployment of new detection standards from the international Technology Alignment Group within the next three to five years.

As part of the programme, nine businesses will receive funding to develop technologies that support this goal, helping to improve threat detection, interoperability and the efficiency of screening systems. Businesses on Track 1: Emerging Security Innovations (Proof of Concept) will receive up to £40,000, while those on Track 2: Evolving Security Innovations (Pre-Demonstrator) will receive up to £75,000.

Technologies chosen focus on alarm resolution and improving the performance of checkpoint systems used to screen passengers and their cabin baggage. Companies based across the regions, from Durham to Birmingham and Bedford, will develop a range of solutions. These include new types of sensors that allow staff to detect explosives from a distance without physical contact, as well as automated shoe screening technology that removes the need for passengers to take off their shoes, helping to improve passenger flow, among many other innovations.

With UK airports handling a record 302 million passengers in 2025, and demand forecast to reach around 465 million passengers a year by 2050, new operationally viable security technologies will be essential to support the future growth of UK aviation.

The organisations selected are:

Analytical Detection is developing technology to extend the capabilities of explosive trace detectors, helping airport security teams detect a wider range of explosive materials.

Aston University is developing a new type of laser-based sensor that will help airport security teams to detect explosives and hazardous materials quickly, at a distance, without physical contact.

Iconal Technology is progressing two projects. The first is developing a compact Raman-based swab analysis system to support airport security alarm resolution; working with Gatwick Airport. The second is exploring compact table-top X-ray diffraction systems to resolve cabin baggage explosive detection alarms faster and more reliably; alongside Quadridox and Gatwick.

Durham University is developing a new type of algorithm that will help improve baggage scanners at airports to identify a broader range of threat materials.
Geoptic Infrastructure is developing a novel muon measurement system identify concealed materials by measuring how naturally occurring cosmic-ray particles interact with them.

GreyScan Detection UK is developing its Trace Detector to extend the range of threats detected; providing a comprehensive alarm resolution capability for explosive and chemical threats.

Kromek is using photon-counting #X-ray detectors with Computer Tomography CT to improve threat detection in aviation security, and will investigate its material discrimination. Such technology is starting to replace conventional CT in healthcare to improve diagnostics.

NW PRO is developing an Automated Divest Assistant to help airport passengers prepare correctly for screening; improving compliance and easing staff workload.

Scanna MSC is working on two projects. The first is developing a specialised high-resolution dual-energy cabinet X-ray system, using adaptive AI to help aviation checkpoint staff resolve alarms caused by electronic devices. The second is to develop an automated shoe screening system using AI to help airports detect explosive threats without shoe removal, improving passenger flow and screening efficiency.

“As UK aviation experiences record demand, Connected Places Catapult understands the sector’s priorities to ensure air travel remains safe, inclusive and efficient; and we stand ready to provide support. Through HADeS 2026, we are helping innovative UK businesses to develop technologies that strengthen airport security and improve the passenger experience.
 
“I am delighted to welcome these nine businesses from across the UK onto the programme, and we are pleased to support their development and contribution to growth across the regions.”

Sameer Savani, Transport Managing Director at Connected Places Catapult