Smiths wins D.C. Metro anti-terrorism contract
PROTECT and FirstView allow transit authorities to monitor multiple chemical warfare sensors, distribute command and control responsibilities among agencies, and integrate Metro's hundreds of cameras into a manageable system.
The Washington Area Metropolitan Transit Authority (Metro) awarded Smiths Detection a five-year contract to upgrade and maintain the company's PROTECT and FirstView anti-terrorism detection and software systems.
These systems allow transit authorities to monitor multiple chemical warfare sensors, distribute command and control responsibilities among agencies, and integrate Metro's hundreds of cameras into a manageable system. The upgrade will include expanded chemical detection libraries and radiological detection capabilities.
PROTECT, which stands for the Program for Response Options and Technology Enhancements for Chemical/Biological Terrorism, is designed to counter terrorist attacks by providing early warning chemical detection and response protocols for safeguarding public locations. It provides emergency responders accurate information and real-time modeling of hazard zones in large public spaces, significantly reducing emergency response times.
FirstView is a command and control sensor and video integration management system used to control and coordinate thousands of separate cameras and detection devices. It is used in multiple Metro locations for networked CCTV viewing and digital video recording.
More Rail

Report Examines NJ TRANSIT Reliability, Funding Challenges
The Garden State Initiative analysis examines the roles of Amtrak infrastructure, fleet management, and agency operations while recommending a more performance-based approach to improving reliability.
Read More →
Stadler, CapMetro Sign Long-Term Rail Fleet Support Agreement
Beginning in 2027, Stadler will provide on-site technical expertise, spare parts support, training, and obsolescence management to help extend the reliability and longevity of CapMetro’s GTW fleet.
Read More →
Biz Briefs: Alstom Lands Canadian Contract, LYT to Supply California TSP, and More
In METRO's latest installment, we take a look at recent news from Complete Coach Works, Beep, FlixBus, and more partnerships making headlines across the transportation sector.
Read More →
CATS Gold Line Marks 5 Years of Service, 2.8M Passenger Trips
With a six-mile expansion planned, the Charlotte streetcar is positioned to connect more neighborhoods and major transit hubs across the region.
Read More →
Why Simulating Pedestrian Movement Has Become Essential for Modern Rail Stations
Pedestrian microsimulation is helping rail planners identify bottlenecks, test station designs, and prepare complex transit hubs for growing passenger volumes.
Read More →
Amtrak Begins Major Construction at New York’s Sunnyside Yard
The new maintenance facility will support Amtrak’s Airo trainsets while improving maintenance efficiency and turnaround times in New York.
Read More →
Chicago Leaders Unveil Plans for O’Hare Airport Express Train
The privately developed project would offer a 15-minute trip between downtown and O’Hare’s Terminal 2, with trains operating every 15 minutes on a dedicated track. The service would use battery-electric trains and three existing freight rail rights-of-way.
Read More →
OCTA Maps Out 30-Year Strategy to Protect Coastal Rail Corridor
The draft feasibility report identifies strategies to protect the coastal rail line for decades as the agency continues near-term stabilization and sand placement efforts.
Read More →
The Business Voice Behind Public Transportation
As chair of APTA’s Business Members Board of Governors, Ray Melleady explains how more than 850 business members are partnering with transit agencies to advance funding, innovation, and industry-wide collaboration.
Read More →
FRA Announces $5.3B in Rail Investments, Including $2B for Amtrak
Funding will support grade-crossing improvements, infrastructure upgrades, and new Amtrak equipment in 23 states.
Read More →