State taps DynCorp for relief

The State Department is preparing to significantly improve its humanitarian aid in Africa, to the tune of $75 million.

DynCorp International, a Computer Sciences Corp. company, won the contract to provide comprehensive logistics and humanitarian and peacekeeping support to the department's relief operations in Africa.

"This is a step forward for [State]-led humanitarian missions in Africa," said Steve Cannon, president of DynCorp. "This contract consolidates several support contracts and builds in the ready reserve capability needed to help deal with humanitarian crises effectively."

The contract, which went into effect May 27, is an indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity award in which DynCorp will provide services on a task order basis for the next five years. Services could range from providing logistical supplies such as base camps and food to personnel training.

"We believe that there will be at least $75 million in business for us," said Andy Michels, program manager for Africa peacekeeping for DynCorp. However, should an uprising or disaster occur on the continent, "it's conceivable that that number could be greater. The ceiling is $100 million...God willing, there won't be a need to add funds for that reason."

The company's capabilities include: supplying subject matter experts to train development workers; providing personnel, logistics and facilities to support designated peacekeeping and humanitarian missions; setting up and conducting operations of base camps and other facilities; and providing the logistical expertise necessary to deliver aid supplies and other services to African nations in need, according to CSC.

One situation that may call for DynCorp's services is the African Mission in Burundi. The mission is responsible for the first-ever deployment of African troops by an African union in a peacekeeping effort. South African troops, with the assistance of troops from Mozambique, are leading the peacekeeping efforts in Burundi. However, they may require outside assistance in the provision of technical skills, logistics and training.