County Durham-based tech firm Kromek has secured a £1.7 million contract from the UK Government to supply advanced radiation detectors that will help protect the public from nuclear threats.

The deal is the first to be awarded under a major four-year Government programme to upgrade the UK’s radiological and nuclear defence capabilities. Kromek, headquartered at NETPark in Sedgefield, is one of a select group of suppliers pre-approved to deliver equipment under the new framework, which supports the Home Office and wider national security efforts.

The contract will see Kromek provide its D3S-ID wearable radiation detectors, which can be used by police officers, border forces and emergency responders to quickly identify radioactive threats in public places. The agreement also includes ongoing training and product maintenance.

Kromek’s wearable radiation detectors are already in active use by frontline responders around the world. The D3S-ID has been deployed by emergency services in New York City, during presidential inaugurations, by NATO troops in Ukraine, and at key European transport hubs for real-time threat monitoring.

The devices are compact, discreet and capable of detecting and identifying radiation sources in seconds, giving first responders critical information in fast-moving situations. Their portability and reliability mean they are well-suited to use in crowded areas, border control zones, major events and national infrastructure protection.

A significant portion of the £1.7 million will be delivered in the current financial year and is expected to support continued growth in the company’s chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) detection division.

Dr Arnab Basu, CEO of Kromek, said: “We’re proud to win our first contract under the UK Government framework for radiological and nuclear detection equipment. As one of the few pre-approved suppliers, we are uniquely positioned to support the Home Office’s mission to strengthen national security and to secure further strategic orders. This contract affirms our leadership in the sector and highlights the significant growth potential unlocked by our selection for this critical framework.”

Kromek’s success reflects the growing global demand for UK-developed security technologies and further reinforces the North East’s role in delivering world-class innovation with real-world impact.