Explosive Trace Detection (ETD) Qualified Products List (QPL)
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA), under the Department of Homeland Security, is establishing a Qualified Products List (QPL) for Explosive Trace Detection (ETD) systems. This Special Notice invites vendors to submit their ETD systems for qualification to be added to the existing QPL, fostering greater competition for future procurements. The process involves multiple testing and submission phases. Requests for Sensitive Security Information (SSI) vetting are due by April 30, 2026, with Certification Data Packages (CDP) and Qualification Data Packages (QDP) due by April 30, 2027.
Purpose & Scope
TSA is utilizing Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) 9.202 to expand its ETD QPL. The objective is to qualify new ETD systems that meet specific TSA Detection Standards (DS 5.0, 6.2, or 6.3) and the ETD Functional Requirements Document (FRD) Version 2.0 (June 2025). Only Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) are eligible to apply. This initiative aims to enhance the pool of approved systems available for future acquisitions.
Qualification Process
The multi-step qualification process includes:
- CDP Submission: Initial submission of Certification Data Packages.
- System Testing: Evaluation of system performance.
- Certification Testing (CERT): Formal certification of the system.
- QDP Submission: Submission of Qualification Data Packages.
- Qualification Testing (QT): Further testing for qualification.
- Cooperative Vulnerability Penetration Assessment (CVPA): Security assessment.
- Initial Operational Test and Evaluation (IOT&E): Operational assessment.
- QPL Placement: Final addition to the Qualified Products List.
Security & Information Access
Participation requires access to Sensitive Security Information (SSI) and potentially Classified National Security Information (CNSI). Applicants must undergo vetting and execute Non-Disclosure Agreements (e.g., TSA Form 2815). Instructions for requesting access to these documents are provided, and a separate Q&A window will be opened for vetted companies after document dissemination.
Key Dates & Submission
- Request for SSI Vetting: No later than April 30, 2026.
- Certification Data Package (CDP) Submission: No later than April 30, 2027.
- Qualification Data Package (QDP) Submission: No later than April 30, 2027.
- Set-Aside: None specified.
- Trade Agreements: TSA adheres to World Trade Organization Government Procurement Agreement and other trade agreements; Buy American Act applicability is noted.
Contact Information
For inquiries, including requests for DD254 forms, contact Jessica Seay at jessica.seay@tsa.dhs.gov.