How Much Does it Cost to Build a Containerized SCIF or SAPF?

One of the most common questions we at Faraday Defense receive during an initial inquiry is, “How much is this going to cost?” We understand that obtaining a general estimate early on is essential to any new endeavor. However, answering this question can be tricky, as it depends on the specific program requirements. Oftentimes, we provide a ROM (rough order of magnitude), which can fluctuate significantly without all the necessary information to present an accurate figure.

The simple answer most potential clients want to hear is, “We’re in the range of $200,000–$350,000.” While this is still a broad range, it represents the most common price bracket for a large percentage of projects we encounter. Since we provide SCIF solutions that meet all requirements outlined within ICD 705 (Intelligence Community Directive 705), the final cost depends on your program’s specific needs and the Accreditation Official’s (AO’s) requirements, which are essential for determining a more accurate estimate.

One of the most impactful cost drivers to consider early on is TEMPEST requirements. Are they required? If so, at what level of attenuation? A facility that requires 100dB attenuation will require additional materials compared to one constructed to meet a 60dB attenuation requirement, and so on, if TEMPEST is not a requirement.

Another major cost driver is the number of penetrations. Think of a SCIF as a six-sided box—each time the box has a hole (penetration), there must be mitigating equipment or materials to ensure the facility meets STC (Sound Transmission Class) and RF (Radio Frequency) shielding requirements so that sensitive information cannot be detected from the exterior.

Some of the less common cost factors include dual power requirements. For example, a SCIF used OCONUS (Outside the Continental United States) may have local shore power operating at 50Hz but require a backup generator operating at 60Hz. This setup would necessitate additional equipment, such as a transfer switch and power transformer.

While there are countless program-specific cost drivers that can impact the overall expense of a SCIF, discussing your program requirements with your AO early on is the best way to reduce unexpected costs or design challenges later in the production cycle.

Our team at Faraday Defense is dedicated to assisting and partnering with you from the earliest planning stages to ensure your facility is built right the first time. We are here to provide expert guidance on secure facility construction as early as needed, ensuring a seamless design, production, and delivery process.