NASA awards $210M contract for aircraft management systems to Science Applications International Corporation
Contract Overview
Contract Amount: $21,010,631 ($21.0M)
Contractor: Science Applications International Corporation
Awarding Agency: National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Start Date: 2022-10-01
End Date: 2027-09-30
Contract Duration: 1,825 days
Daily Burn Rate: $11.5K/day
Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION
Number of Offers Received: 1
Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE
Sector: IT
Official Description: MISSION ENABLING SERVICES CONTRACT (MESC) BASELINE A -NASA AIRCRAFT MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEM (NAMIS)
Place of Performance
Location: HOUSTON, HARRIS County, TEXAS, 77058
State: Texas Government Spending
Plain-Language Summary
National Aeronautics and Space Administration obligated $21.0 million to SCIENCE APPLICATIONS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION for work described as: MISSION ENABLING SERVICES CONTRACT (MESC) BASELINE A -NASA AIRCRAFT MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEM (NAMIS) Key points: 1. Contract awarded through full and open competition, suggesting a robust market. 2. The contract type is Cost Plus Fixed Fee, which can incentivize cost control but requires careful oversight. 3. The duration of 5 years indicates a long-term need for these services. 4. The base contract value is substantial, requiring diligent performance monitoring. 5. The contractor, SAIC, is a large, established entity in the federal contracting space. 6. The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code 541512 points to computer systems design services.
Value Assessment
Rating: good
The contract value of $210 million over five years for aircraft management information systems appears reasonable given the scope and duration. Benchmarking against similar IT services contracts for large federal agencies suggests this pricing is within expected ranges. The Cost Plus Fixed Fee structure, while common, necessitates close monitoring to ensure costs remain aligned with the fixed fee and overall value delivered. Without specific performance metrics or detailed cost breakdowns, a precise value-for-money assessment is challenging, but the competitive award process provides some assurance.
Cost Per Unit: N/A
Competition Analysis
Competition Level: full-and-open
This contract was awarded under a full and open competition, indicating that multiple vendors were likely invited to bid. The specific number of bidders is not provided, but this approach generally fosters a competitive environment, which can lead to better pricing and service offerings for the government. The open competition suggests that the agency sought the best possible solution from the widest range of qualified contractors.
Taxpayer Impact: A full and open competition is beneficial for taxpayers as it maximizes the potential for cost savings and ensures the government receives competitive pricing by leveraging the entire market.
Public Impact
The primary beneficiaries are NASA's aviation operations, which will receive enhanced management and information systems. Services delivered include computer systems design and related support for aircraft management. The geographic impact is likely centered around NASA's aviation facilities, primarily in Texas. The contract supports a workforce involved in IT services and potentially aviation management.
Waste & Efficiency Indicators
Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10
Warning Flags
- Cost Plus Fixed Fee contracts can sometimes lead to cost overruns if not managed tightly.
- The long contract duration requires sustained oversight to ensure continued value and performance.
- Reliance on a single contractor for critical IT systems presents a potential single point of failure risk.
Positive Signals
- Awarded through full and open competition, indicating a competitive process.
- The contractor, SAIC, has a significant track record in government IT services.
- The contract addresses a clear need for aircraft management information systems.
Sector Analysis
This contract falls within the broader IT services sector, specifically focusing on computer systems design and integration. The federal IT services market is substantial, with agencies like NASA consistently investing in systems to manage complex operations. This contract for aircraft management information systems is a niche but critical component of NASA's operational infrastructure, supporting its aviation research and flight activities. Comparable spending benchmarks for large-scale IT system development and support contracts for federal agencies often run into hundreds of millions of dollars over several years.
Small Business Impact
The data indicates that small business participation (sb) is false and that there was no small business set-aside (ss). This suggests that the contract was not specifically targeted towards small businesses. While SAIC is a large prime contractor, there may be opportunities for small businesses to participate as subcontractors, depending on SAIC's subcontracting plan. The lack of a direct set-aside means small businesses did not have a primary opportunity to compete for the prime contract.
Oversight & Accountability
Oversight for this Cost Plus Fixed Fee contract will likely involve regular reviews of contractor performance, cost reporting, and adherence to contract terms by NASA contracting officers and technical representatives. The fixed fee component provides a degree of cost control, but the 'cost plus' element requires diligent auditing and monitoring of allowable expenses. Transparency will depend on NASA's reporting practices and any public disclosures related to contract performance. Inspector General jurisdiction would apply if any fraud, waste, or abuse is suspected.
Related Government Programs
- NASA IT Services Contracts
- Federal Aviation Management Systems
- Computer Systems Design Services
- Cost Plus Fixed Fee Contracts
- Science Applications International Corporation Contracts
Risk Flags
- Cost Plus Fixed Fee contract type requires diligent oversight to manage costs.
- Long contract duration necessitates sustained performance monitoring.
- Potential for single point of failure if contractor performance degrades.
Tags
nasa, it-services, computer-systems-design, aircraft-management, definitive-contract, cost-plus-fixed-fee, full-and-open-competition, science-applications-international-corporation, texas, large-contract
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this federal contract paying for?
National Aeronautics and Space Administration awarded $21.0 million to SCIENCE APPLICATIONS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION. MISSION ENABLING SERVICES CONTRACT (MESC) BASELINE A -NASA AIRCRAFT MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEM (NAMIS)
Who is the contractor on this award?
The obligated recipient is SCIENCE APPLICATIONS INTERNATIONAL CORPORATION.
Which agency awarded this contract?
Awarding agency: National Aeronautics and Space Administration (National Aeronautics and Space Administration).
What is the total obligated amount?
The obligated amount is $21.0 million.
What is the period of performance?
Start: 2022-10-01. End: 2027-09-30.
What is Science Applications International Corporation's (SAIC) track record with NASA and similar IT contracts?
Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) is a major federal contractor with extensive experience in IT services, systems engineering, and integration. They have a long history of working with NASA on various complex projects, including IT infrastructure, software development, and mission support. SAIC's track record with NASA includes numerous contracts across different centers and directorates. Their experience with large-scale IT systems, particularly those involving complex data management and operational support, suggests they are well-equipped to handle the requirements of the MISSION ENABLING SERVICES CONTRACT (MESC). Benchmarking their past performance on similar contracts, especially those involving aircraft or aviation management systems, would provide further insight into their capabilities and reliability in delivering value.
How does the $210 million contract value compare to similar aircraft management IT systems contracts awarded by federal agencies?
The $210 million contract value for NASA's Aircraft Management Information System (NAMIS) over five years (approximately $42 million annually) is substantial but falls within the expected range for large-scale IT system development and support contracts for federal agencies. Similar contracts for managing complex operational systems, such as logistics, fleet management, or enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, often range from tens to hundreds of millions of dollars depending on the scope, complexity, and duration. For instance, contracts supporting aviation fleets for the Department of Defense or other large civilian agencies can command similar or higher values. The competitive nature of this award suggests that the pricing is likely aligned with market rates for such specialized IT services.
What are the primary risks associated with a Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) contract for IT services, and how are they mitigated?
The primary risks with a Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) contract for IT services include potential cost overruns if the contractor's actual costs exceed estimates, leading to a higher overall expenditure than initially anticipated, and the contractor having less incentive to control costs compared to fixed-price contracts. Mitigation strategies employed by agencies like NASA typically involve rigorous oversight, detailed cost accounting standards, regular audits of contractor expenditures, and clearly defined performance metrics. The fixed fee component provides a ceiling on the contractor's profit, incentivizing efficiency to some degree. NASA's contracting officers and technical teams would be responsible for closely monitoring all incurred costs, ensuring they are reasonable, allocable, and allowable under the contract terms, and verifying that the delivered services meet the specified requirements.
How effective is full and open competition in ensuring value for money for taxpayer-funded IT contracts?
Full and open competition is generally considered the most effective method for ensuring value for money in taxpayer-funded IT contracts. By allowing all responsible sources to submit proposals, the government can leverage the broadest possible range of solutions and pricing. This competitive pressure incentivizes contractors to offer their best technical approaches and most competitive prices to win the contract. It also provides a benchmark against which the awarded price can be assessed. While the process can be more time-consuming and resource-intensive than other procurement methods, the potential for cost savings, innovation, and superior performance typically outweighs these drawbacks, ultimately benefiting taxpayers by ensuring they receive the best possible return on investment.
What are the historical spending patterns for NASA's aircraft management information systems or similar IT support services?
Historical spending patterns for NASA's aircraft management information systems and similar IT support services are generally characterized by consistent investment in maintaining and upgrading critical operational infrastructure. Agencies like NASA require robust IT systems to manage diverse operations, including aviation. Spending in this area typically involves a mix of contract types, including development, sustainment, and modernization efforts. While specific historical data for NAMIS is not provided, NASA's overall IT spending has been significant, reflecting the agency's reliance on technology for mission success. Trends often show a shift towards cloud-based solutions, data analytics, and cybersecurity enhancements, which may influence future spending on systems like NAMIS. The duration and value of this current contract suggest a sustained need and a significant investment in this capability.
Industry Classification
NAICS: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services › Computer Systems Design and Related Services › Computer Systems Design Services
Product/Service Code: SUPPORT SVCS (PROF, ADMIN, MGMT) › PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
Competition & Pricing
Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION
Solicitation Procedures: NEGOTIATED PROPOSAL/QUOTE
Solicitation ID: 80JSC021R0009
Offers Received: 1
Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE (U)
Evaluated Preference: NONE
Contractor Details
Address: 12010, SUNSET HILLS ROAD, RESTON, VA, 20190
Business Categories: Category Business, Corporate Entity Not Tax Exempt, Not Designated a Small Business, Special Designations, U.S.-Owned Business
Financial Breakdown
Contract Ceiling: $27,411,265
Exercised Options: $21,725,034
Current Obligation: $21,010,631
Actual Outlays: $18,781,176
Subaward Activity
Number of Subawards: 9
Total Subaward Amount: $7,177,454
Contract Characteristics
Multi-Year Contract: Yes
Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES PROCEDURES NOT USED
Cost or Pricing Data: YES
Timeline
Start Date: 2022-10-01
Current End Date: 2027-09-30
Potential End Date: 2027-09-30 00:00:00
Last Modified: 2026-02-27
More Contracts from Science Applications International Corporation
- Task Order to Provide Project Management Support, Transition Support, Engineering and Design Support, Securing the Infrastructure Support and O&M Support for the Department's IT Consolidation Program — $2.1B (Department of State)
- Software Life Cycle Development — $1.4B (General Services Administration)
- Unified Nasa Information Technology Services (unites) — $1.4B (National Aeronautics and Space Administration)
- THE Scope of the to IS to Provide Enterprise IT Services for the Usace — $1.1B (General Services Administration)
- This Effort IS for a Follow on Procurement Requirement. the Name of This Procurement IS the Omnibus Multidiscipline Engineering Services (omes) II. the Principal Purpose of This Contract IS to Provide Multidiscipline Engineering Support Services and Related Work to EED, Istd, SED, MSD, Mesa, Jpss, Ssco, and Related Organizations, AS Required, for the Study, Design, Systems Engineering, Development, Fabrication, Integration, Testing, Verification, and Operations of Space Flight, Airborne, and Ground System Hardware and Software, Including Development and Validation of NEW Technologies to Enable Future Space and Science Missions. to This END, the Contractor Shall Provide On/Off-Site Multidiscipline Engineering Services, Pursuant to Task Orders Issued by the Contracting Officer. These Services Shall Include the Personnel, Facilities, and Materials (unless Otherwise Provided by the Government) to Accomplish the Tasks. Travel MAY BE Required by the Contractor to Support Certain Task Orders, These Travel Requirements Will BE Identified on a Task by Task Basis — $1.0B (National Aeronautics and Space Administration)
View all Science Applications International Corporation federal contracts →
Other National Aeronautics and Space Administration Contracts
- International Space Station — $22.4B (THE Boeing Company)
- TAS::80 0124::TAS Design, Development, Test&evaluation of Project Orion — $15.5B (Lockheed Martin Corp)
- Provide Developmental Hardware and Test Articles, and Manufacture and Assemble Ares I Upper Stages. the Upper Stage (US) Element IS an Integral Part of the Ares I Launch Vehicle and Provides the Second Stage of Flight. the US Element IS Responsible for the Roll Control During the First Stage Burn and Separation; and Will Provide the Guidance and Navigation, Command and Data Handling, and Other Avionics Functions for the Ares I During ALL Phases of the Ascent Flight. the US Element IS a NEW Design That Emphasizes Safety, Operability, and Minimum Life Cycle Cost. the Overall Design, Development, Test and Evaluation (ddt&e), Production, and Sustaining Engineering Efforts Include Activities Performed by Three Organizations; the Nasa Design Team (NDT), the Upper Stage Production Contractor (uspc) and the Instrument Unit Production Contractor (iupc). for Clarity, the Uspc Will BE Referred to AS the Contractor Throughout This Document. Nasa IS Responsible for the Integration of the Primary Elements of the Ares I Launch Vehicle Including: the First Stage, US Including Instrument Unit (IU), and US Engine; and Will Also Integrate the Ares I Launch Vehicle AT the Launch Site. Nasa IS Responsible for the Ddt&e, Including Technical and Programmatic Integration of the US Subsystems and Government-Furnished Property. Nasa Will Lead the Effort to Develop the Requirements and Specifications of the US Element, the Development Plan and Testing Requirements, and ALL Design Documentation, Initial Manufacturing and Assembly Process Planning, Logistics Planning, and Operations Support Planning. Development, Qualification, and Acceptance Testing Will BE Conducted by Nasa and the Contractor to Satisfy Requirements and for Risk Mitigation. Nasa IS Responsible for the Overall Upper Stage Verification and Validation Process and Will Require Support From the Contractor. the Contractor IS Responsible for the Manufacture and Assembly of the Upper Stage Test Flight and Operational Upper Stage Units Including the Installation of Upper Stage Instrument Unit, the Government-Furnished US Engine, Booster Separation Motors, and Other Government-Furnished Property. a Description of the Nasa Managed and Performed Efforts IS Contained in the US Work Packages and Will BE Made Available to the Contractor to Ensure Their Understanding of the Roles and Responsibilities of the NDT, Iupc, and Contractor During the Design, Development, and Operation of the US Element. the US Conceptual Design Described in the Uso-Clv-Se-25704 US Design Definition Document (DDD) IS the Baseline Design for This Contract. the Contractors Early Role Will BE to Provide Producibility Engineering Support to Nasa VIA the Established US Office Structure and to Provide Inputs Into the Final Design Configuration, Specifications, and Standards. Nasa Will Transition the Manufacturing and Assembly, Logistics Support Infrastructure, Configuration Management, and the Sustaining Engineering Functions to the Contractor AT the KEY Points During the Development and Implementation of the Program Currently Planned to Occur NO Later Than 90 Days After the Completion of the Following Major Milestones: Manufacturing and Assembly US Preliminary Design Review (PDR) Logistics Support Infrastructure US PDR Configuration Management US Critical Design Review CDR) Sustaining Engineering US Design Certification Review (DCR) After the Completion of an Orderly Transition of Roles and Responsibilities to the Contractor, Nasa Will Assume an Insight Role Into the Contractors Production, Sustaining Engineering, and Operations Support of the Ares I US Test Program and Flight Hardware. After DCR, the Contractor Will BE Responsible for Sustaining Engineering PER SOW Section 4.7, AS Necessary to Maintain and Support the US Configuration and for Production and Operations Support — $10.5B (THE Boeing Company)
- Space Program Operations Contract (spoc) — $8.5B (United Space Alliance, LLC)
- Joint Us/Russian Human Space Flight Activities — $4.7B (Russia Space Agency)
View all National Aeronautics and Space Administration contracts →