Considering that the TASS project will result in a high-tech system that can profitably marketed to airports around the world, it is unclear why the Commission needs to dole out this corporate welfare. Defence giant BAE Systems is also taking part, being clearly unable to fund research and development from its £1 billion 2010 profit. BAE is separately involved in 12 similar EU research projects, funded with another £71 million in taxpayers’ cash.