Low Energy Portal X-ray Interference with Radiation Portal Monitors
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 Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Office of Procurement Operations (OPO), on behalf of the Science and Technology Directorate (S&T), has issued a Notice of Intent to Award a Sole Source Contract to Astrophysics, Inc. for the ruggedization and field testing of a Low Energy Portal (LEP) and Radiation Portal Monitor (RPM) prototype. This effort aims to mitigate x-ray interference issues at border ports of entry (POEs). Responses from interested parties are due by June 23, 2026.
Background & Scope
Customs and Border Protection (CBP) requires scanning systems at POEs, but existing LEP systems interfere with RPMs, causing delays and missed screenings. Astrophysics, Inc. previously developed a non-recurring engineering solution (under DHS task order 70RSAT24FR0000109) that integrated a linear accelerator (Linac) into their LEP system to emit pulsed x-rays, reducing interference.
The current requirement involves the ruggedization of this LEP/RPM prototype, its installation at the San Ysidro POE, and comprehensive field-testing culminating in a Site Acceptance Test (SAT). The successful outcome will improve operational efficiency, support border security, increase vehicle screening rates, and eliminate nuisance radiation alarms.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Notice of Intent to Award Sole Source (Presolicitation)
- Intended Awardee: Astrophysics, Inc.
- Justification: Sole source under FAR 6.103-1 due to proprietary hardware and software.
- Period of Performance: 6 months from date of award
- Place of Performance: Primary at Government and contractor facilities in metropolitan Washington, DC area (with installation at San Ysidro POE).
- NAICS: 541715 (Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences)
- PSC: 6665 (Hazard-Detecting Instruments and Apparatus)
- Published: June 8, 2026
- Response Due: June 23, 2026, by 10:00 AM Eastern
Response Information
This is for informational purposes only and is not a request for competitive proposals. However, any firm believing they can fulfill this requirement may identify their interest and capabilities. All questions and comments must be submitted in writing to Jennifer.Koons@hq.dhs.gov by the response deadline.