OptaSense receives pipeline security contract in Iraq

UK-based OptaSense has received a security contract in Iraq, to provide protection to a new 180km pipeline corridor, which is owned and run by the State Company for Oil Projects Iraq (SCOP).

As per the terms of the contract, the company will provide the technology that will enable vital operational and security data to operate, protect and secure the pipeline along both sides of a 60m wide corridor.

About 20,000 virtual microphones will protect the pipeline corridor, upon the completion of the pipeline.

The technology will detect any kind of activity such as footsteps, digging or vehicle movement, in and around the pipeline corridor, while the acoustic alert data will inform and guide the correct response to maintain pipeline integrity.

OptaSense managing director Magnus McEwen-King said that the latest contract is a crucial step for the company in the Middle East.

"OptaSense will, for the first time, be providing a secure corridor, between which multiple pipelines will be built," added McEwen-King. "This cutting edge technology will provide a cost-effective means of protecting vital Iraqi infrastructure."

Scheduled to be complete in March 2013, the project will complement work taking place in Oman, Qatar and Iraq. OptaSense will manage the project from its regional HQ in Dubai.