WASHINGTON-The federal government recently delayed the submission date for proposals to build the Integrated Wireless Network-a public-safety communications system to be used by law enforcement personnel in the departments of Homeland Security, Justice and Treasury.
“The Homeland Security, Justice and Treasury departments operate a wide variety of communications systems for their law enforcement and protective personnel. These legacy systems have been plagued with problems in recent years, including aged and antiquated technology, insufficient/inadequate communications coverage for today’s operation, and channel crowding and congestion/lack of capacity,” reads the IWN website. “Under the IWN, the requirements of the components and bureaus are used to drive the development of a consolidated system services that effectively and efficiently support Justice, Treasury and DHS missions, foster interoperability, allow resource consolidation, and maintain component and bureau control of operations.”
The government had originally hoped to award the contract for the IWN in May but now will accept technical proposals as late as April 29 with cost proposals due May 6.
While the IWN Joint Program Office said it immediately needs the capabilities it envisions with IWN, it realizes it could take as long as 15 years to complete.
