Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Unaudited) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 27, 2021	Jun. 28, 2020	Jun. 27, 2021	Jun. 28, 2020
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ 14,909	$ (2,681)	$ 27,182	$ 23,469
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Change in foreign currency translation adjustment, net of tax	629	59	(365)	(917)
Other, net	0	142	(1)	424
Other comprehensive income (loss)	629	201	(366)	(493)
Comprehensive income (loss)	15,538	(2,480)	26,816	22,976
Comprehensive income (loss) attributed to noncontrolling interests	552	284	(702)	781
Comprehensive income (loss) attributed to PAE Incorporated	$ 14,986	$ (2,764)	$ 27,518	$ 22,195