Physical Security Systems (OPA3)

The Physical Security Systems (OPA3) program is a critical component of the Army's Other Procurement budget, designed to safeguard Army installations, facilities, personnel, and critical assets from a range of threats, including sabotage, espionage, terrorism, criminal activity, and insider threats. The overarching goal is to reduce risks and vulnerabilities by providing commanders with advanced technological solutions that ensure Army readiness and the ability to generate, project, and sustain forces. This line item supports a balanced investment strategy aligned with Army-approved force structure and requirements. It encompasses three major sub-programs: Standardized Intrusion Detection Systems (ICIDS), Commercial Intrusion Detection Systems (CIDS), and Other Physical Security Measures Equipment.

The Standardized Intrusion Detection Systems (ICIDS) sub-program is a Force Protection System Program of Record managed by the Program Executive Office for Intelligence, Electronic Warfare and Sensors (PEO IEW&S). ICIDS provides integrated, commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) and government off-the-shelf (GOTS) intrusion detection capabilities for high-value and sensitive sites, such as munitions storage, sensitive compartmented information facilities (SCIFs), and missile storage areas. Planned activities include installation and technical refresh of ICIDS at key locations including Anniston Army Depot, Ft. Detrick, Redstone Arsenal, Aberdeen Proving Ground, Hawthorne, and Tooele, as well as Windows 11 conversions for non-compliant systems. The program also funds intrusion detection systems for new construction projects through Army Materiel Command, the Joint Program Executive Office, the US Army Corps of Engineers, and US Army Central Command, supporting enduring requirements such as Operation Spartan Shield.

The Commercial Intrusion Detection Systems (CIDS) sub-program provides intrusion detection solutions at locations where fielding ICIDS is not practical or cost-effective. Managed by the Office of the Secretary of the Army, Resource Services Washington, CIDS supports both modernization and new installations at hundreds of sites and Ammunition Supply Points, primarily for the National Guard, Army Reserve, and some Active Army sites. Planned investments support procurement and modernization of IDS panels, motion and seismic sensors, and magnetic switches, with a focus on compliance with Unified Facilities Criteria (UFC) 4-021-02. The program aims to reduce vulnerabilities at arms, ammunition, and explosive storage facilities, SCIFs, and other high-risk targets, ensuring compliance with Army policy and addressing cybersecurity vulnerabilities that require modernization.

Other Physical Security Measures Equipment encompasses a range of additional security technologies. The largest component is the Automated Installation Entry (AIE) system, which automates and enhances access control at Army installations in compliance with DoD and Army directives. Planned activities include fielding AIE systems to multiple installations, upgrades such as facial recognition and other software enhancements, and provision of program management and contract support. The US Army Corps of Engineers receives funding for Access Control Point (ACP) modernization at installations such as Ft. Lee, Ft. Stewart, Ft. Bliss, and Yuma Proving Ground. The Army Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC) is funded for the Separate and Secure initiative, which improves security in trainee barracks through standardized camera systems to deter and respond to incidents such as sexual harassment and active shooter threats.

Other elements under this sub-program include procurement of CCTV and access control systems for the US Military Academy, lifecycle hardware replacement, and support for the Defense Biometric Identification System (DBIDS) to install and upgrade biometric identification capabilities. Funding is also provided for intrusion detection systems at new or modified facilities for the Army National Guard and Army Materiel Command. These investments are justified by the need to meet statutory and regulatory requirements for physical security, enhance the safety of personnel and assets, and support homeland defense and emergency response missions.