Client: US Army Product Manager, Force Protection Systems Challenge: Keep military and civilian decision-makers informed about the latest technologies for protecting U.S. personnel and assets. Facilitate a dialog between those who manufacture physical security equipment and those who need it, so that equipment that comes to market addresses real-world requirements. Solution: Since 1997, CSC has served as PM-FPS’s agent for planning, organizing and conducting FPED. CSC is responsible for all event logistics and for coordination with vendors, attendees, other armed services, and Quantico Marine Corps Base, which hosts FPED. Results: April 2005 marked the fifth incarnation of FPED. Since the first of these demonstrations in 1997, each has been larger than its predecessor. The exchange of information that FPED allows between manufacturers and users of security equipment has generated new ideas for solutions. When equipment comes to market, it is better suited to real-world situations, it has been produced more economically, and it can be procured more rapidly. Related links Learn about CSC's PM-FPS contract, which can be used by any Federal agency that requires security-related IT services.

With the pervasive focus on terrorism since September 11, 2001, it's easy to forget that U.S. efforts to address the issue reach back to the Reagan administration. They intensified in the 1990s, and in 1996 after terrorists bombed Khobar Towers (a U.S. military residential facility in Saudi Arabia), concern over protection of U.S. personnel and interests became greater than ever.

The heightened focus on security spawned an effort to raise awareness within the military of commercially available technology for force protection. The Army’s Product Manager, Force Protection Systems (PM-FPS), was directed to mount a demonstration of such technology.

In October 1997, the first Force Protection Equipment Demonstration (FPED) was held at Quantico Marine Corps Base in Virginia. FPED allows leaders and decision-makers from DoD, other federal agencies, selected state and local agencies, and a few foreign governments to assemble to learn about new products and discuss their security needs with equipment manufacturers.

CSC makes it all happen
Having supported PM-FPS since 1991, CSC has served as PM-FPS’s agent for planning, organizing and conducting FPED. CSC is responsible for all event logistics and for coordination with vendors, attendees, other armed services, and Quantico.

The first FPED in 1997 drew over 184 vendors with 404 items of equipment, and each subsequent FPED has grown in size and stature. FPED V in 2005 brought together 522 domestic and 34 international vendors on the cutting edge of physical security and force protection equipment. These vendors displayed more than 2,990 pieces of equipment. Attendance over the three days of FPED V was approximately 11,000.

FPED compares to a “hands-on trade show.” Vendors not only display their wares but also show them in action. The products represent the latest technologies, often still in development, but they must be commercially available for purchase within 90 days of the demonstration. If an attendee wants to use a product, an accelerated procurement process is available to get the product in service as quickly as possible.

Vendors demonstrate their own products. CSC works with Quantico installation support personnel to provide the setting and equipment necessary for each demonstration. For example, if a vendor claims to have a container capable of restricting an explosive blast, it will be taken to a Quantico range where explosives will be detonated inside it. Equipment for waterside security is displayed at a nearby river. Night vision demonstrations are conducted after dark.

FPED is not classified, but it is not open to the public. Since September 11, 2001, security has become much more stringent. CSC works closely with Quantico’s security office to prepare and coordinate FPED's primary security plans.

The “think tank” effect
Perhaps the most important benefit of FPED is its “think tank” effect. Leaders from the military and law enforcement talk directly with the equipment manufacturers about specific requirements and challenges. As a result, those charged with force protection know more about the technology available to them and manufacturers know more about security requirements.

Jerry Edwards, deputy PM-FPS, puts it this way: "FPED provides a two-way street between the manufacturer and the user, ensuring that equipment being built is based on a developmental concept fused with practical applications learned in war environments." The exchange of information can generate new ideas for solutions. When equipment comes to market, it is better suited to real-world situations, it has been produced more economically, and it can be procured more rapidly. FPED benefits everyone--makers and, most importantly, the users of the security equipment.

CSC plays a major role in facilitating those benefits. According to Michael Toscano, chairman of the DoD Physical Security Equipment Action Group, CSC has provided "invaluable service in the planning and execution of FPED. Without this dedicated team, the equipment needs of service members to combat the growing terrorist threat could not be met."