The Army is setting up a “homeland security cell” to act as a liaison
organization with the Department of Homeland Security. The plan is to give DHS
easier access to Army programs and suppliers.
In charge of this effort is the Army program executive office for combat support
and combat service support, based in Warren, Mich.
PEO CS&CSS would be the “single point of focus for acquisition for
the Army” in support of homeland security, said Army Col. Philip R. Loschiavo,
who currently runs that office.
Programs will be broken into three areas: transportation, infrastructure and
physical security. Transportation equipment includes trucks, trailers, watercraft,
cranes and rail stock. Infrastructure involves construction equipment, water
and petroleum systems, auxiliary power generation and bunkers. Security systems
would encompass perimeter and facility intrusion detection and denial equipment,
customized Humvees and armored security vehicles.
To help state and local agencies acquire equipment, for example, the PEO would
set up a preferred vendor product list, add options to existing Army contracts
to fill other agencies’ requirements and even provide Army hardware to
homeland security organizations.
The Army’s depots and arsenals could be used for storage and repairs.