SAIC Secured $742 Million Border Security Contract

The company will provide software support for U.S. Customs and Border Protection systems over a five-year period.

Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Immigration

Isometric editorial illustration of a single steel cargo shipping container sitting on a concrete pier, representing logistics and border security infrastructure. — Science Applications International Corp. was awarded a $742 million contract to support software and operations for U.S. Customs and Border Protection systems. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Science Applications International Corp. has been awarded a $742 million recompete contract to provide software and operations support for U.S. Customs and Border Protection. The agreement also includes a separate $199 million task order for the agency's Integrated Traveler Initiatives program.

Why it matters

The contract supports critical Department of Homeland Security initiatives designed to secure borders, assess traveler and cargo risks, and promote national economic prosperity. By maintaining these systems, the agency aims to enhance security capabilities across the country.

This government contract award encompasses a $742 million total value to support border security systems through September 2031. The award remains active across a five-year performance period, with specific implementation milestones yet to be finalized.

The players

Science Applications International Corp.

Based in Reston, Virginia, the technology integrator reports approximately $7.3 billion in annual revenue and employs 23,000 people.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection

This federal agency is responsible for managing border security and assessing the security risks of travelers and cargo entering the country.

Department of Homeland Security

This cabinet-level department manages national security efforts, including the protection of critical infrastructure and border operations.

The details

Science Applications International Corp. will deliver software development, maintenance, and system upgrades to bolster integrated border capabilities. The company intends to utilize an operator-first, mission-driven approach to enhance the overall security of border and cargo assessments.

The contract award was announced on September 29, 2026.
The five-year performance period begins on September 15, 2026.
Contract operations are scheduled to conclude on September 14, 2031.

Political Context

Critics of large-scale federal contracting have long questioned the reliance on a single vendor for critical infrastructure, arguing that it reduces competitive pressure and can lead to vendor lock-in. Opponents often point to the need for greater oversight of long-term technology spending within the Department of Homeland Security.

While the deal focuses on internal systems and software, it directly affects the efficiency of border processing for all travelers and cargo imports. Taxpayers should note that this $742 million expenditure is intended to streamline security checks and reduce potential delays at points of entry.

The takeaway

This multi-million dollar contract highlights the government's continued reliance on private firms to manage complex border security technology infrastructure. Maintaining these digital systems is a foundational element in modern efforts to manage large-scale travel and trade flows.