Learn about the types of mobile SCIFs, how they’re transferred, and security mitigations
When you need a SCIF or SAPF that can rapidly move between different locations without impacting deployability, a mobile SCIF is the answer. These non-permanent facilities are built to travel and be used in any area that has the space and utilities to support them. These may be used for programs where equipment needs to be tested in different locations, to test equipment in a different place than where it will ultimately be deployed, or to support a specific unit that travels.
Types of Mobile SCIFs
The facilities that can be most effectively used as mobile SCIFs are container and trailer SCIFs. These facilities can be easily moved on the back of semi-trucks, and they take up relatively little space. They can be customized to fit your needs, though the square footage is limited to keep the facilities transportable. As long as you have enough room for the facility and the standoff distance for the door to open, you can place these essentially anywhere. They do need power hookups and lack bathroom facilities, so those are important considerations when deciding where they will be deployed. The “six-sided box” of the walls, floor and ceiling of the secure facility remain intact during transportation, which means you don’t have to worry about the facility’s security integrity.
A container SCIF being loaded for transportation
A panelized modular facility could also potentially be used as a mobile facility if you need a larger space. However, unlike the container SCIFs that can be moved with relative ease, a modular facility will need to be deconstructed and reconstructed, and it will have more complicated utility needs. Container SCIFs are more “plug and play,” where you will be able to run them as long as you have a power and communications hookup for them.
Transportation Considerations for Mobile SCIFs
When you are procuring a mobile SCIF, you need to be clear with the Accrediting Official (AO) and the accreditation team from the beginning about the facility’s need for mobility. They will give you requirements for how the facility will need to be moved. One of the benefits of the container or trailer SCIF is that they’re relatively inconspicuous. There is nothing external to identify them as a SCIF, so they just look like a normal shipping container. However, the accrediting team may still require the facility be transported under the U.S. flag, meaning by a U.S.-owned and operated company, or for it to be accompanied by cleared American guards or cleared courier services.
The facilities can be moved on a semi-truck, cargo boat or a cargo plane. The requirements will vary depending on the threat level of the location to which they’re being moved. Requirements will also change if the facility is being moved from the continental United States (CONUS) to outside the continental United States (OCONUS).
CONUS vs. OCONUS for Mobile SCIFs
Your AO should know from the beginning if the facility will be moved OCONUS. While transportation within the U.S. will generally be low risk, that risk immediately increases when the facility is taken outside the country. Some countries will also be higher threats than others. They may require cleared personnel from your company to follow the facilities until they’re delivered to the final location. Cleared guards would be considered high-level security and a more extreme measure for a higher threat.
Once the facility is delivered to its final location, you need to ensure the site security is set up to protect it.
Security Considerations for Mobile SCIFs
Security in Depth (SID) is an important part of securing any mobile SCIF. While the facility itself will be built to meet the designated TEMPEST and STC requirements, the location may require more security surrounding the facility. There may be CCTV that needs to be added, an entry point to check in employees and visitors, or a visual blocker in front of the door if personnel who aren’t read into the program will be nearby. You can consult the accreditation team for what SID will be needed for your facility.
Mobile SCIFs may be the perfect solution to your program needs. If you’re looking for the fastest path to mission readiness for your mobile SCIF, look no further than Adamo’s Rapid SCIF line. Whether you need workspaces, server rooms, conference rooms or storage, our 20- and 40-foot container configurations can meet your needs and be operational in as little as eight weeks. If you have needs outside of the Rapid SCIF line, our team can help create a custom option to support your program. Contact us today to learn how Adamo can help you.
