An overview of container SCIFs and in what scenarios they’re useful
A container SCIF, often called a SCIF in a box, is a facility built inside a shipping container. They are able to function the same as traditionally built SCIFs, though the smaller space means they’re more limited in what can be done inside the SCIF. They are small facilities that are deployable in situations where space is at a premium or facility relocation is necessary. You may have to be more creative in how you use this space to make it work for your mission.
Benefits of SCIFs in a Box
The ability to relocate container SCIFs is one of the largest benefits, especially for programs that are leasing a space and may need to move in the future. Having a container SCIF that can be moved as needed could potentially save millions of dollars in renovation cost when going from one area to another, since you won’t need to change the new space to meet ICD 705 requirements. However, the SCIF in a box is more expensive per square foot than traditional facilities.
These facilities can be deployed in austere locations where other types of facilities won’t work. Container SCIFs can be fully operational “off the grid,” where they only need a generator to operate.
A SCIF in a box facility can be mission ready in a manner of weeks. Both the fabrication and accreditation of these facilities are far faster than other types of facilities. Traditional SCIF construction can take years, so container SCIFs are a great option when speed is mission critical. Even modular facilities, which are often similarly used as an alternative to ground-up construction, can take a year or more to be operational. Container SCIF’s speed can outweigh the expense of the facility, depending on your needs. As long as you can fit your mission into the container successfully, they are your fastest path to mission readiness.
SCIF in a Box Use Cases
Container SCIFs are the best solution for a need for a facility in austere locations. If a facility is needed somewhere conditions are less than favorable, site prep work hasn’t been done, and access to normal utilities may be limited.
Some programs, like surveillance, need to be able to move to where the adversary is. Container SCIFs can be easily moved on a flatbed truck and serve as a homebase for any such missions. They also may follow a particular unit or battalion so they can maintain a data processing SCIF while being able to remain mobile. They’re often used for deployment to a foreign base where not a lot of site prep work has been done.
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While these are most often used as server rooms or workstations, they can also be used as storage rooms. This can be a great solution for classified information or materials that are too large to fit in a GSA-approved container.
With the speed these facilities can be up and running, they can serve as an interim facility while waiting for a modular or traditional space to be ready. This can also be deployed in the case where your current facility needs compliance upgrades, but your mission can’t be interrupted by construction.
If you are looking for a container SCIF, Adamo’s Rapid SCIF is your fastest path to mission readiness. We have five configurations you can choose from to best meet your program’s needs, and each can be delivered in a matter of weeks. If you’re not sure if a container SCIF is right for you, reach out to our experts and they can help you find the right solution for your needs.
