BioWatch Gen-3 (Phase 1)

The BioWatch Gen-3 Phase 1 contract, solicitation HSHQDC09R00045, is an award issued by the Department of Homeland Security to establish a fully autonomous network of biodetectors for the continuous monitoring of air for public health biothreat agents across the United States. The contractor is required to provide autonomous biodetectors with a Technology Readiness Level of 6 or greater, along with all necessary equipment, consumables, and technical support. This infrastructure enables the government to conduct independent testing at designated sites, including locations in Chicago, Illinois, and Los Alamos, New Mexico. The program structure includes a base year ordering period with specific task orders for assay validation and characterization testing, as well as option years dedicated to engineering and maintenance. Technical success is measured against Key Performance Parameters, specifically focusing on sensitivity thresholds for bacteria and viruses, time-to-detect requirements, and the probability of false positives. To ensure fair competition within the private sector, the contract restricts National or Government laboratories and Federally Funded Research and Development Centers from serving as prime contractors or subcontractors.