DHS ‘Smart Wall’ Drives Data-Driven Border Modernization

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is expanding its data-driven border strategy with a $4.5 billion Smart Wall project that integrates sensors, analytics and AI to give agents real-time visibility across the southwest border.

DHS, through Customs and Border Protection (CBP), awarded 10 new construction contracts in September to build about 230 miles of Smart Wall infrastructure and deploy advanced technologies across nearly 400 miles. The effort marks the latest phase in DHS’ years-long modernization strategy to enhance operational awareness and decision-making through connected data systems.

By the end of 2020, the agency completed about 450 miles of border wall systems and has continued to modernize surveillance capabilities with radar, cameras and predictive analytics.

These investments align with DHS’ data strategy to unify information systems, strengthen interoperability and improve situational awareness for frontline personnel.

“Technology use at the border isn’t new, but over the past decade we’ve seen a significant increase in surveillance systems. … Border security and surveillance have crossed political divides. We’ve seen continued investment in border technology — expanding what’s now called the Smart Wall, which integrates sensors, radars and cameras,” Sarah Forland, policy analyst at the Open Technology Institute, told GovCIO Media & Research in an interview.

Officials see infrastructure investments like the Smart Wall key to improving border security operations and decision-making. The systems will collect and connect data from multiple sources to give agents a real-time, actionable common operating picture, improving their ability to anticipate and respond to emerging threats.

“Personnel make decisions based on timely information informed by quality data and analytics,” according to CBP’s operating strategy.

These modernization efforts build on DHS initiatives to use advanced analytics and AI responsibly across subagencies like ICE and CBP to ensure interoperability, accountability and data security.

Ensuring Data Privacy as AI Tools Expand

The rising use of surveillance and AI-driven tools have prompted experts to emphasize the importance of protecting individual privacy and maintaining strong data governance practices.

“When we talk about border surveillance and data practices used for immigration, it’s really important to know that they can impact the privacy of citizens,” said Forland. “Prioritizing data minimization — making sure collected data is used only for its stated purpose — and implementing strong cybersecurity protections are critical to preventing potential breaches or misuse.”

“Over the past few years, we’ve seen the integration of AI into surveillance technology,” Forland added. “We also saw CBP launch the CBP One app to process asylum seekers, which collected geolocation data and used facial recognition technology.”

The CBP One app — one of the agency’s early AI use cases, now known as CBP Home — uses AI to screen cargo at ports of entry and verify traveler identities. These tools promise faster and more secure crossings, but they also underscore the need for policies around data retention and privacy.

CBP officials said earlier this year that the agency is ensuring security and privacy safeguards are in place as it adopts AI technologies. Border Patrol Supervisory Assistant Chief Matthew Lightner said the agency remains focused on responsible implementation and maintaining transparency with the public.

“We’re not trying to implement AI to trample on anybody’s rights,” Lightner said. “We need every technology available to identify who is crossing the border — and then, with a human in the loop, law enforcement can make that decision to take action or not.”