COLLECTION CAPABILITY

The Collection Capability program, as outlined in Army budget line item 9556B87000, is designed to enhance the Army's ability to collect, process, and utilize biometric and intelligence data in support of force protection and operational requirements. This line item consolidates previous programs, specifically the Biometric Automated Toolset-Army (BAT-A) and the CI/HUMINT Equipment Program-Army (CIHEP-A), into a unified procurement and fielding effort. The overarching goal is to modernize and sustain the Army's tactical collection capabilities, ensuring readiness for both combat and homeland defense missions.

Next Generation Biometric Collection Capability (NXGBCC) is a central component of this line item. Its primary objective is to procure, test, field, and sustain advanced biometric collection devices that support Army force protection and identity intelligence operations. NXGBCC replaces the legacy BAT-A system, which is reaching obsolescence, and leverages commercial technology to provide a software-based solution capable of collecting, submitting, and matching biometric modalities such as face, finger, iris, and voice.

This modernization is justified by the need to maintain operational effectiveness in identity management, particularly during large-scale combat operations, detainee management, and refugee accounting. The NXGBCC program enables joint forces to identify combatants, manage enemy prisoners of war, and account for displaced persons and refugees. It is a key enabler for identity intelligence activities, which are critical for both tactical and strategic decision-making. The program's reliance on commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) technologies ensures rapid adaptation to evolving requirements and technological advancements.

Counterintelligence (CI) / Human Intelligence (HUMINT) Equipment Program - Army (CIHEP-A) is the second major element of the Collection Capability line item. CIHEP-A aims to provide CI and HUMINT collectors with a comprehensive set of expeditionary capabilities to answer commanders' intelligence requirements and protect the force. The program is designed to be scalable and modular, including computing systems, alternate power sources, advanced communications packages, mission support equipment, and team support kits.

These capabilities enable CI and HUMINT teams to conduct their respective functions in diverse operational environments. The program supports the acquisition of kits comprised of both COTS and government off-the-shelf (GOTS) components. These kits are intended to enhance the operational effectiveness of CI and HUMINT teams by providing advanced collection and security equipment, mission management tools, and robust communications systems. The modular nature of the program allows for tailored solutions to meet specific mission requirements, supporting both active and reserve components of the Army.

The consolidation of BAT-A and CIHEP-A into the Collection Capability program streamlines procurement and fielding processes, improving efficiency and reducing redundancy. This approach aligns with the Army's broader modernization efforts and supports compliance with section 1815 of the FY 2008 National Defense Authorization Act, which mandates capabilities for homeland defense, domestic emergency response, and military support to civil authorities. The program's funding and procurement quantities reflect a sustained commitment to equipping Army units with state-of-the-art collection technologies.