| Document and Entity Information Document | Feb. 18, 2021 | Jan. 29, 2021 |
| Cover [Abstract] | ||
| Document Type | 8-K | |
| Document Period End Date | Feb. 18, 2021 | |
| Entity Registrant Name | VSE CORP | |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE | |
| Entity File Number | 000-03676 | |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000102752 | |
| Amendment Flag | false | |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 54-0649263 | |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 6348 Walker Lane | |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Alexandria, | |
| Entity Address, State or Province | VA | |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 22310 | |
| City Area Code | 703 | |
| Local Phone Number | 960-4600 | |
| Written Communications | false | |
| Soliciting Material | false | |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false | |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false | |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, par value $.05 per share | |
| Trading Symbol | VSEC | |
| Security Exchange Name | NASDAQ | |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
