ICE awards $1.3 million contract for customized robot dogs without competition
Immigration and Customs Enforcement bought four modified Spot robots from RADeCO for $1.3 million, invoking a sole-source exception and skipping a competitive bid.
ICE’s Office of Firearms and Tactical Programs received four robot dogs from RADeCO at a total cost of about $1.3 million, each priced around $326,000 fully equipped. The procurement process involved an eight-day “Sources Sought Notice” on SAM.gov, which attracted only RADeCO and GovTRobotics; the latter’s offer was rejected as not technically acceptable. ICE invoked a sole-source exception, arguing only one vendor could meet its needs, a move that watchdog Scott Amey says deviates from normal competitive practices.
The agency’s justification cites officer safety in dangerous, confined environments and semi-autonomous patrols, though Boston Dynamics disputes claims that the robots will be used for immigration enforcement. The contract runs through late November, and both Boston Dynamics and RADeCO declined further comment.
Why it matters
The deal highlights how federal agencies can bypass competition, raising concerns about cost efficiency and oversight of law-enforcement technology.
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