According to official reports, the U. S. Homeland Security Department is receiving deliveries of a key component of a biological threat detection system developed by Northrop Grumman.

It has begun deliveries of its assay technology as part of a phase I indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity contract with the Homeland Security Department, Northrop Grumman has announced.

The assay technology is a component of Northrop Grumman's BioWatch Gen-3 system that officials say is designed to provide continuous biological detection in U. S. population centers.

The BioWatch Gen-3 system will be expected to autonomously operate around the clock for 365 days per year and provide an early warning that "will allow the nation's public health and safety officials to reduce exposure, distribute medication sooner and proactively manage the response to a biological threat," said Dave Tilles, Northrop Grumman vice president of homeland defense programs.

The BioWatch Gen-3, expected to be deployed in select cities across the United States, is under development as part of a $15.1 million deal with Northrop Grumman awarded in November. (With Inputs from Agencies)