DoD awards $38M for E-2/C-2 airborne tactical reconnaissance support to NSWC Crane

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $38,137,923 ($38.1M)

Contractor: Mantech TSG-2 Joint Venture

Awarding Agency: Department of Defense

Start Date: 2018-09-14

End Date: 2026-08-31

Contract Duration: 2,908 days

Daily Burn Rate: $13.1K/day

Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Number of Offers Received: 3

Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE

Sector: R&D

Official Description: SUPPORT TO NSWC CRANE FOR E-2/C-2 AIRBORNE TACTICAL MANNED RECONNAISSANCE AIRCRAFT INTELLIGENCE, SURVEILLANCE, RECONNAISSANCE, TARGETING IN SUPPORT OF NAVAL AIR SYSTEMS COMMAND E-2/C-2 AIRBORNE TACTICAL DATA SYSTEM PROGRAM OFFICE

Place of Performance

Location: HERNDON, FAIRFAX County, VIRGINIA, 20171

State: Virginia Government Spending

Plain-Language Summary

Department of Defense obligated $38.1 million to MANTECH TSG-2 JOINT VENTURE for work described as: SUPPORT TO NSWC CRANE FOR E-2/C-2 AIRBORNE TACTICAL MANNED RECONNAISSANCE AIRCRAFT INTELLIGENCE, SURVEILLANCE, RECONNAISSANCE, TARGETING IN SUPPORT OF NAVAL AIR SYSTEMS COMMAND E-2/C-2 AIRBORNE TACTICAL DATA SYSTEM PROGRAM OFFICE Key points: 1. This contract supports critical intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities for naval aviation. 2. The awardee, MANTECH TSG-2 JOINT VENTURE, will provide research and development services. 3. The contract is structured as Cost Plus Fixed Fee, which can lead to cost overruns if not managed carefully. 4. The sector is R&D, specifically focusing on physical, engineering, and life sciences.

Value Assessment

Rating: good

The contract value of $38.1M over nearly 8 years suggests a moderate annual spend. Pricing is likely benchmarked against similar R&D contracts for specialized aerospace systems.

Cost Per Unit: N/A

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: full-and-open

Full and open competition was utilized, which is ideal for price discovery and ensuring the best value. The award was a delivery order under a larger contract.

Taxpayer Impact: Competition generally leads to better pricing for taxpayers. The R&D focus implies investment in future capabilities.

Public Impact

Enhances national security through advanced airborne reconnaissance. Supports the development of critical naval air systems. Contributes to technological advancements in ISR. Potential for job creation in the aerospace R&D sector.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

  • Cost Plus Fixed Fee contract type can incentivize contractor to increase costs.
  • Long duration of contract may lead to scope creep or outdated technology.
  • Limited information on specific performance metrics and deliverables.

Positive Signals

  • Full and open competition ensures a competitive bidding process.
  • Supports a critical defense program for naval aviation.
  • Awardee has experience in relevant technical areas.

Sector Analysis

This contract falls within the Research and Development sector, specifically for physical, engineering, and life sciences. Spending in this area is crucial for maintaining technological superiority but can be subject to cost overruns.

Small Business Impact

The data does not indicate any specific set-asides for small businesses. Larger prime contractors may subcontract to small businesses, but direct participation is not evident.

Oversight & Accountability

The contract is managed by the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), which has established oversight processes. However, the Cost Plus Fixed Fee structure requires diligent monitoring to control costs.

Related Government Programs

  • Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Biotechnology)
  • Department of Defense Contracting
  • Department of the Air Force Programs

Risk Flags

  • Cost Plus Fixed Fee contract type.
  • Long contract duration.
  • Potential for scope creep.
  • Lack of specific small business participation noted.

Tags

research-and-development-in-the-physical, department-of-defense, va, delivery-order, 10m-plus

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

Department of Defense awarded $38.1 million to MANTECH TSG-2 JOINT VENTURE. SUPPORT TO NSWC CRANE FOR E-2/C-2 AIRBORNE TACTICAL MANNED RECONNAISSANCE AIRCRAFT INTELLIGENCE, SURVEILLANCE, RECONNAISSANCE, TARGETING IN SUPPORT OF NAVAL AIR SYSTEMS COMMAND E-2/C-2 AIRBORNE TACTICAL DATA SYSTEM PROGRAM OFFICE

Who is the contractor on this award?

The obligated recipient is MANTECH TSG-2 JOINT VENTURE.

Which agency awarded this contract?

Awarding agency: Department of Defense (Department of the Air Force).

What is the total obligated amount?

The obligated amount is $38.1 million.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2018-09-14. End: 2026-08-31.

What are the key performance indicators (KPIs) for this contract, and how will they be measured to ensure effective delivery of ISR capabilities?

Key performance indicators would likely focus on the successful development and integration of new technologies, system reliability, and timely delivery of research findings. Measurement would involve rigorous testing, validation processes, and regular progress reviews by NAVAIR. Ensuring these KPIs are clearly defined and tracked is crucial for the effective use of taxpayer funds in this R&D effort.

Given the Cost Plus Fixed Fee structure, what mechanisms are in place to mitigate the risk of cost overruns and ensure the government receives fair value?

Mitigation strategies for CPFF contracts typically include robust government oversight, detailed cost tracking, and negotiation of realistic fee structures. The government must actively monitor contractor expenditures, validate costs, and ensure the contractor exercises due diligence in managing resources. Regular audits and performance reviews are essential to identify potential cost escalations early and address them proactively.

How does this contract align with broader DoD strategies for modernizing airborne tactical reconnaissance and intelligence gathering capabilities?

This contract directly supports the modernization of E-2/C-2 airborne platforms, which are vital for naval ISR. By funding R&D in this area, the DoD aims to enhance the capabilities of these aircraft to meet evolving threats and maintain information superiority. The focus on intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and targeting ensures alignment with the need for advanced situational awareness in complex operational environments.

Industry Classification

NAICS: Professional, Scientific, and Technical ServicesScientific Research and Development ServicesResearch and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Biotechnology)

Product/Service Code: RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENTOTHER RESEARCH/DEVELOPMENT

Competition & Pricing

Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Solicitation Procedures: SUBJECT TO MULTIPLE AWARD FAIR OPPORTUNITY

Solicitation ID: FA807513R0001

Offers Received: 3

Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE (U)

Evaluated Preference: NONE

Contractor Details

Address: 12015 LEE JACKSON HWY, FAIRFAX, VA, 22033

Business Categories: Category Business, Not Designated a Small Business, Special Designations, U.S.-Owned Business

Financial Breakdown

Contract Ceiling: $45,065,554

Exercised Options: $45,065,554

Current Obligation: $38,137,923

Actual Outlays: $1,919,335

Subaward Activity

Number of Subawards: 16

Total Subaward Amount: $12,815,461

Contract Characteristics

Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES PROCEDURES NOT USED

Cost or Pricing Data: NO

Parent Contract

Parent Award PIID: FA807514D0020

IDV Type: IDC

Timeline

Start Date: 2018-09-14

Current End Date: 2026-08-31

Potential End Date: 2026-08-31 00:00:00

Last Modified: 2025-08-21

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