DynCorp gets Blackwater's service contracts for U.S. diplomats in Iraq
WASHINGTON — A leading U.S. security firm has been assigned to form
an aviation network in Iraq.
The State Department has contracted DynCorp International to provide
aviation and support services in Iraq. Under the award, DynCorp
would replace the former Blackwater, which was the only major U.S. security
contractor with an aviation fleet in Iraq and other parts of the Middle
East.
"This award is a tremendously important opportunity for DynCorp
International to support the safety and security of U.S. diplomatic
personnel serving in Iraq," DynCorp International chief executive officer
William Ballhaus said.
In May 2009, DynCorp replaced Blackwater as the leading security
contractor for the State Department. Blackwater, responsible for aviation
services as well, was banned from operating in Iraq in wake of the
prosecution of six former security officers linked to a shootout in Baghdad
in 2007 in
which 16 civilians were killed.
Industry sources said Xe, the new name for Blackwater, has been
operating through front companies in Iraq. They said Xe continues to supply
foreign security guards to protect a range of sites connected to the U.S.
military. The company was also expected to provide some security services to
U.S. diplomatic personnel until September 2009.
DynCorp has maintained scores of different aircraft — both rotary and
fixed-wing — for all branches of the U.S. military. The company has been
struggling amid high overhead and a lower-than-expected sales volume.
Regardless, DynCorp, responsible for guarding U.S. embassies and
consulates throughout the Middle East, has been awarded a one-year contract
to provide aviation services for the State Department. The order, under the
Worldwide Personal Protective Services contract with the State Department's
Bureau of Diplomatic Security, began on June 15 and includes four one-year
options, with a total value of $915 million.
DynCorp was expected to provide personnel, ground and flight operations
as well as basing and maintenance of rotary wing and fixed air
assets. Executives said the company has undergone a transition period, with
full services throughout Iraq to begin on Sept. 4.
"It's an honor to contribute to our government’s efforts to promote
peace and stability in Iraq, for us as a company and for every person who
serves with us," Ballhaus said.
Comments
It would seem that there is no end to the "opportunities" for civilian contractors in Iraq. I suspect as long as there are lucrative contracts available the war may be protracted.
