“This award comes at the end of Gemalto’s successful completion of an extensive qualification process,” commented Ernie Berger, president of Gemalto North America. “Winning this contract gives us enormous satisfaction and we look forward to delivering the first electronic passports to U.S. citizens, as we fully support the GPO in this essential global security initiative. These new passports will greatly enhance the travel experience for U.S. citizens by providing effective, efficient and rapid passage through border control points with an additional element of security.” The Gemalto electronic passport (e-passport) technology includes the company’s highly secure operating system software running in a large capacity contactless microprocessor chip. The chip is embedded in a module that is highly resistant to damage and then is integrated into the passport booklet cover. Leveraging the company’s 26 years of smart card experience, the Gemalto e-passport solution has been designed to provide superior durability and performance over the passport’s expected 10-year life span. Gemalto’s e-passport references include the Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Norway, Portugal, Russia, Singapore, Slovenia and Sweden. esaby@axalto.com www.gemalto.com