National Beverage Partners with Leidos to Enhance Saudi Arabia's Airport Security Technology
- Leidos partnered with Saudi Arabia's National Security Services Company to enhance airport security screening technology.
- The collaboration aims to modernize security infrastructure at airports and improve threat detection capabilities across Saudi Arabia.
- This partnership highlights increasing U.S.-Saudi cooperation in security technology and sets a precedent for future collaborations.
### Enhancing Airport Security: A New Partnership in Saudi Arabia
In a significant development for airport security, Leidos, a leading technology and services company based in Reston, Virginia, has partnered with Saudi Arabia's National Security Services Company (SAFE) to advance security screening technology across the Kingdom. This collaboration, formalized on May 13, 2025, during the U.S.-Saudi Investment Forum, aims to revamp the security infrastructure at airports and other critical transit points. By integrating advanced screening solutions, such as people and baggage scanners, explosive detection systems, and rapid cargo screening technology, the partnership seeks to enhance threat detection capabilities at various entry points in Saudi Arabia.
Leidos' senior vice president, Michael Van Gelder, expresses gratitude for the collaboration, highlighting the trust placed in the company to deliver essential technologies. The initiative is particularly timely as global security concerns continue to rise, necessitating robust measures to protect citizens and travelers alike. By modernizing Saudi Arabia's security infrastructure, the partnership not only addresses immediate safety needs but also sets a precedent for future collaborations between U.S. technology firms and Saudi entities focused on national security.
This partnership signifies a broader trend of increasing cooperation between the United States and Saudi Arabia in the realm of security technology. As both countries navigate complex geopolitical landscapes, such collaborations are vital in fostering trust and advancing technological capabilities. Through this agreement, Leidos joins a growing list of U.S. companies engaged in the Saudi market, reinforcing the importance of innovative technology in enhancing national security efforts.
### Broader Implications for the Industry
The collaboration between Leidos and SAFE underscores the pressing need for enhanced security measures in an era marked by global threats. As airports and ports of entry remain critical points for both travel and trade, investing in advanced screening technology becomes paramount for safeguarding against potential risks. The partnership serves as a model for other nations seeking to bolster their security frameworks through technological advancements.
Additionally, the agreement reflects a growing trend of international partnerships in the defense and technology sectors. Such collaborations not only facilitate the transfer of knowledge and expertise but also create opportunities for economic growth and job creation within both countries involved. As security threats evolve, so too must the technologies designed to combat them, making these partnerships essential for future readiness.