American Science and Engineering, Inc. Announces Receipt of Order From FAA For BodySearch X-Ray Inspection Systems.

Business/Technology Editors

BILLERICA, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 31,2001

American Science and Engineering, Inc. (AMEX: ASE) announced today the receipt of an order for 5 BodySearch(TM) personnel X-ray inspection systems from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The systems will be tested by the FAA for possible implementation into U.S. airports as part of their efforts to increase security following the September 11th attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon.

Ralph Sheridan, President and CEO, stated, "These systems have the unique ability to scan a person and identify both organic and metallic items hidden under the clothes or against the skin. For example, BodySearch can see plastic knives or explosives that would not be detected by metal detectors. This system was originally developed as an alternative to a high-contact pat search, and utilized in high-threat environments. However, the events of September 11th, have changed the public debate of the threshold of modesty versus the public's requirements for security. BodySearch is but one of a gauntlet of technologies required to provide the highest assurance of detection against terrorist threats. The implementation of thorough passenger screening is a necessary step in restoring public trust in aviation security."

BodySearch is an X-ray imaging system designed to quickly and safely detect both metallic and organic materials, such as drugs, plastic weapons and illegal contraband on people. The efficient imaging process eliminates the need for labor intensive and invasive pat searches. BodySearch is currently in use at several international arrival terminals scanning passengers for illegal contraband entering the United States.

AS&E develops and manufactures sophisticated X-ray inspection products for critical detection and security applications. These systems are solving an expanding range of inspection problems, including detecting car and truck bombs, combatting weapons smuggling, personnel inspection, and imaging cargo to expose trade fraud and illegal immigration. AS&E's patented Z(R)Backscatter technology detects plastic explosives, illegal drugs, and other contraband, even when artfully concealed in complex backgrounds by terrorists and smugglers. For more information on AS&E products and technologies, please visit the Company's web site at http://www.as-e.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

The foregoing press release contains statements concerning the Company's financial performance and business operations which may be considered "forward-looking" under applicable securities laws. The Company wishes to caution readers of this press release that actual results might differ materially from those projected in any forward-looking statements.Factors which might cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statement contained herein include the following: significant reductions or delays in procurements of the Company's systems by the United States and other governments; disruption in the supply of any sole-source component incorporated into the Company's products (of which there are several); litigation seeking to restrict the use of intellectual property used by the Company; potential product liability claims against the Company; global political trends and events which affect public perception of the threat presented by drugs, explosives and other contraband; global economic developments and the ability of governments and private organizations to fund purchases of the Company's products to address such threats; and the potential insufficiency of Company resources, including human resources, capital, plant and equipment and management systems, to accommodate any future growth. These and certain other factors which might cause actual results to differ materially from those projected are more fully set forth under the caption "Risk Factors" in the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-3 (SEC File No. 333-9151).