DoD's $73.3M R&D Contract with Torch Technologies Inc. Awarded via Full and Open Competition
Contract Overview
Contract Amount: $73,321,152 ($73.3M)
Contractor: Torch Technologies Inc
Awarding Agency: Department of Defense
Start Date: 2014-03-11
End Date: 2020-03-07
Contract Duration: 2,188 days
Daily Burn Rate: $33.5K/day
Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION
Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE
Sector: R&D
Official Description: IGF::CT::IGF
Place of Performance
Location: HUNTSVILLE, MADISON County, ALABAMA, 35802
State: Alabama Government Spending
Plain-Language Summary
Department of Defense obligated $73.3 million to TORCH TECHNOLOGIES INC for work described as: IGF::CT::IGF Key points: 1. Significant R&D investment by the Department of the Army. 2. Torch Technologies Inc. secured a substantial contract. 3. Full and open competition suggests a potentially competitive pricing environment. 4. Contract spans multiple years, indicating ongoing R&D needs. 5. Focus on physical, engineering, and life sciences R&D.
Value Assessment
Rating: good
The contract's firm fixed price structure provides cost certainty. Benchmarking against similar R&D contracts in the physical and engineering sciences would be necessary for a definitive value assessment, but the duration and scope suggest a reasonable price for the services rendered.
Cost Per Unit: N/A
Competition Analysis
Competition Level: full-and-open
The contract was awarded under full and open competition, indicating that multiple vendors had the opportunity to bid. This method generally promotes competitive pricing and allows the government to select the best value offer.
Taxpayer Impact: Taxpayer funds were utilized through a competitive process, aiming for cost-effectiveness in research and development.
Public Impact
Advancement in physical, engineering, and life sciences research. Potential for technological innovation and application. Supports the Department of Defense's research objectives.
Waste & Efficiency Indicators
Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10
Warning Flags
- Lack of specific performance metrics or outcomes in provided data.
- Potential for cost overruns if scope expands beyond initial estimates.
- Dependence on a single contractor for a significant period.
Positive Signals
- Awarded through full and open competition.
- Firm fixed price contract type.
- Long-term engagement suggests sustained need and potential for deep expertise development.
Sector Analysis
This contract falls within the Research and Development sector, specifically focusing on physical, engineering, and life sciences. Spending in this area is crucial for technological advancement and national security, with benchmarks varying widely based on the specific research domain and project complexity.
Small Business Impact
The provided data does not indicate any specific set-asides for small businesses. The contract was awarded under full and open competition, suggesting that large businesses were likely the primary participants.
Oversight & Accountability
Oversight would typically involve regular performance reviews, milestone tracking, and financial audits by the Department of Defense to ensure contract compliance and effective use of funds.
Related Government Programs
- Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Biotechnology)
- Department of Defense Contracting
- Department of the Army Programs
Risk Flags
- Potential for scope creep leading to cost increases.
- Dependency on Torch Technologies Inc. for critical R&D.
- Lack of detailed performance metrics in the summary data.
- The long duration could lead to outdated technology if not managed proactively.
Tags
research-and-development-in-the-physical, department-of-defense, al, delivery-order, 10m-plus
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this federal contract paying for?
Department of Defense awarded $73.3 million to TORCH TECHNOLOGIES INC. IGF::CT::IGF
Who is the contractor on this award?
The obligated recipient is TORCH TECHNOLOGIES INC.
Which agency awarded this contract?
Awarding agency: Department of Defense (Department of the Army).
What is the total obligated amount?
The obligated amount is $73.3 million.
What is the period of performance?
Start: 2014-03-11. End: 2020-03-07.
What specific research outcomes or technological advancements were achieved under this contract?
The provided data does not detail the specific research outcomes or technological advancements resulting from this contract. Further analysis of contract performance reports, technical documentation, and final deliverables would be required to assess the tangible results and their impact on the Department of Defense's objectives.
How did the competitive bidding process ensure the best value was obtained for taxpayers?
The 'full and open competition' award method implies that multiple qualified vendors submitted proposals, allowing the Department of the Army to compare technical capabilities and pricing. This process is designed to foster competition, driving down costs and ensuring the selection of the offer that provides the optimal balance of price and performance for the government.
What is the long-term strategic importance of this R&D investment for the Department of Defense?
This contract's focus on physical, engineering, and life sciences R&D suggests a strategic investment in foundational technologies and capabilities. Such research can lead to advancements in areas critical for national security, such as advanced materials, new weapon systems, or improved soldier performance, ensuring the military maintains a technological edge.
Industry Classification
NAICS: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services › Scientific Research and Development Services › Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Biotechnology)
Product/Service Code: SUPPORT SVCS (PROF, ADMIN, MGMT) › PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
Competition & Pricing
Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION
Solicitation Procedures: NEGOTIATED PROPOSAL/QUOTE
Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE (J)
Evaluated Preference: NONE
Contractor Details
Address: 4035 CHRIS DR SW STE C, HUNTSVILLE, AL, 35802
Business Categories: Category Business, Corporate Entity Not Tax Exempt, Small Business, Special Designations, U.S.-Owned Business
Financial Breakdown
Contract Ceiling: $83,069,910
Exercised Options: $73,321,152
Current Obligation: $73,321,152
Subaward Activity
Number of Subawards: 519
Total Subaward Amount: $940,973,945
Contract Characteristics
Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES
Cost or Pricing Data: NO
Parent Contract
Parent Award PIID: W31P4Q09A0021
IDV Type: IDC
Timeline
Start Date: 2014-03-11
Current End Date: 2020-03-07
Potential End Date: 2020-03-07 12:03:00
Last Modified: 2024-11-13
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