Effective immediately, contracting officers shall use the attached clause 252.225-7976, Contractor Personnel Performing in Japan (DEVIATION 2018-O0019), in solicitations and contracts, including solicitations and contracts using FAR part 12 procedures for the acquisition of commercial items, that will require contractor personnel to perform in Japan.

This class deviation implements changes made on January 16, 2017, to the "Agreement under Article VI of the Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security between Japan and the United States of America, Regarding Facilities and Areas and the Status of United States Armed Forces in Japan" (SOFA), dated January 19, 1960. The deviation clause requires DoD contractors to account for contractor personnel and dependents in the Synchronized Predeployment and Operational Tracker, in order for the contractor personnel and dependents to be eligible for coverage under the SOFA.

This class deviation remains in effect until incorporated in the DFARS or otherwise rescinded.