SETA Support Services Extension

This contract modification extends the period of performance for an existing Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology Directorate task order by eight months, through February 2, 2027, to maintain uninterrupted Systems Engineering and Technical Assistance (SETA) support for Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning initiatives under the Office of Mission and Capability Support and the Program Executive Office for Drones and Countering Unmanned Aerial Systems. The extension is justified under FAR Class Deviation 25-11, which permits sole-source award without competition due to the incumbent contractor’s unique and irreplaceable expertise, deep institutional knowledge of mission-critical programs, and embedded presence within DHS operations. The contractor, Noblis, Inc., has provided continuous support for over six years and possesses unparalleled familiarity with ongoing RDT&E efforts, operational planning for high-profile events including the 2026 FIFA World Cup and America 250, and advanced technologies such as fentanyl detection, counter-drone systems, and biometrics. Any transition to a new provider would pose unacceptable risk to mission continuity, national security, and operational readiness, particularly given delays in the recompete process caused by the FY2026 federal shutdown. Performance will remain centered in Washington, DC, with extensive field activities across DHS operational sites and national event locations. The contract is issued as Time and Materials under the SETA III IDIQ vehicle, with all personnel required to hold appropriate security clearances and access to sensitive government systems. No competitive evaluation or pricing breakdown has been conducted, as the award is non-competitive, driven solely by mission necessity and the contractor’s irreplaceable capabilities. The extension bridges the gap until a full and open recompetition can be completed on the GSA OASIS+ platform.