Loughborough-based firm Axi-Tek (www.axi-tek.com) is set to develop the next generation of safe and rapid inspection equipment after signing a licensing deal with Ploughshare Innovations — the technology transfer arm of the Ministry of Defence.

New technology developed by the Defence, Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL) produces higher-resolution images while simplifying product design.

The first product to take advantage of this new technology will be the Axi-Tek CSI-100, which will make the inspection of aircraft components quicker and easier due to its reduced size and weight.

Future products will cater for applications that include factory in-line and in-field industrial inspection, plus security and bomb disposal.

Nick Fox, managing director of Axi-Tek, said: “We are excited to have secured this novel technology, as it now paves the way for a new line of portable backscatter X-ray imaging products.

“We expect to see the first CSI-100 available to the aviation industry in the fourth quarter of next year, with specialist security variants coming on-line early the following year.

Ploughshare’s chief executive, James Kirby (www.ploughshareinnovations.com) , said: “This licence deal with Axi-Tek further demonstrates how Ploughshare maximises the investments DSTL has made in science and technology by finding commercial uses for defence innovations.

Axi-Tek’s unique products will benefit its operators, assist with the public’s safety and security, and also create jobs and prosperity.”