The U.S. Coast Guard has issued a request for information (RFI) to identify potential industry sources that could help update the service branch's biometric system for migrant interdiction operations and law and treaty enforcement missions, according to a notice posted on SAM.gov.
USCG said Wednesday it will collect and use data from the market research effort to plan its migration to version 3.0 of the Biometrics at Sea System (BASS).
According to a 2016 privacy impact assessment, BASS collects biometric information to aid USCG members in screening individuals caught entering the U.S. illegally through maritime channels.
The branch noted that the technology supports the enforcement of immigration laws by helping military users to identify repeat offenders and individuals engaged in smuggling activity.
Interested parties can submit input to USCG through July 23rd.
