DoD's $13.2M Aerospace Physiology Research Contract Awarded to DCS Corporation Under Full and Open Competition

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $13,260,438 ($13.3M)

Contractor: DCS Corporation

Awarding Agency: Department of Defense

Start Date: 2020-01-23

End Date: 2026-04-30

Contract Duration: 2,289 days

Daily Burn Rate: $5.8K/day

Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Number of Offers Received: 4

Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE

Sector: R&D

Official Description: AEROSPACE PHYSIOLOGY&PERFORMANCE RESEARCH (APPR)

Place of Performance

Location: ALEXANDRIA, FAIRFAX County, VIRGINIA, 22310

State: Virginia Government Spending

Plain-Language Summary

Department of Defense obligated $13.3 million to DCS CORPORATION for work described as: AEROSPACE PHYSIOLOGY&PERFORMANCE RESEARCH (APPR) Key points: 1. The contract focuses on R&D in physical, engineering, and life sciences, specifically aerospace physiology. 2. DCS Corporation, the contractor, has a history in defense and aerospace services. 3. The contract is structured as Cost Plus Fixed Fee, which can lead to cost overruns if not managed carefully. 4. The award was made under full and open competition, suggesting a competitive bidding process. 5. The duration of the contract is substantial, spanning over 2200 days.

Value Assessment

Rating: fair

The Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) contract type carries inherent risk for cost control. While the fixed fee provides some certainty for the contractor, the government bears the cost of performance. Benchmarking CPFF contracts in R&D is challenging due to project variability, but close monitoring of indirect costs and labor rates is crucial.

Cost Per Unit: N/A

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: full-and-open

The contract was awarded under full and open competition, indicating multiple bidders likely participated. This method generally promotes price discovery and competitive pricing. The specific price discovery achieved depends on the number and quality of proposals received and the negotiation process.

Taxpayer Impact: Full and open competition is generally favorable for taxpayers as it aims to secure the best value through a competitive process, potentially leading to lower overall costs compared to sole-source awards.

Public Impact

Advancements in aerospace physiology could lead to improved astronaut health and mission success. Research findings may have applications beyond military aerospace, potentially benefiting commercial spaceflight. The contract supports high-skilled R&D jobs within the aerospace and defense sector. Long-term research investments can yield significant technological breakthroughs.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

Cost Plus Fixed Fee contract type can incentivize cost overruns.
Long contract duration may require ongoing oversight to ensure continued relevance and efficiency.
Potential for scope creep in R&D projects.

Positive Signals

Awarded under full and open competition.
Supports critical research in aerospace physiology.
Contractor has relevant experience in the defense sector.

Sector Analysis

This contract falls within the Research and Development sector, specifically focusing on physical, engineering, and life sciences. Spending in this area is critical for technological advancement and national security. Benchmarks for R&D contracts vary widely based on scope and duration, but this award represents a significant investment in specialized scientific inquiry.

Small Business Impact

The contract was awarded under full and open competition and does not indicate any specific set-asides for small businesses. While the prime contractor is DCS Corporation, a large business, there is no information provided on subcontracting opportunities for small businesses.

Oversight & Accountability

The Cost Plus Fixed Fee structure necessitates robust oversight to manage costs effectively and ensure the contractor adheres to the research objectives. Regular performance reviews and audits will be critical for accountability and to prevent potential cost overruns.

Related Government Programs

Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and 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 in R&D.
Lack of specific small business subcontracting information.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

Department of Defense awarded $13.3 million to DCS CORPORATION. AEROSPACE PHYSIOLOGY&PERFORMANCE RESEARCH (APPR)

Who is the contractor on this award?

The obligated recipient is DCS CORPORATION.

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 $13.3 million.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2020-01-23. End: 2026-04-30.

What specific performance metrics will be used to evaluate the success of the aerospace physiology research?

The success of the research will likely be evaluated based on the achievement of specific scientific milestones outlined in the contract's Statement of Work (SOW). This could include the successful development of new physiological models, validation of performance enhancement techniques, or the generation of actionable data for operational improvements. Regular technical reviews and final reports will assess the quality and impact of the research findings against predefined objectives.

How will the government mitigate the risk of cost overruns inherent in a Cost Plus Fixed Fee contract for this R&D project?

Mitigation strategies for CPFF contracts typically involve stringent oversight of contractor's incurred costs, including labor rates and indirect expenses. The government will likely conduct regular audits, require detailed cost reporting, and establish clear ceilings for cost categories. Performance reviews will ensure the research stays within scope and budget, with potential for incentive fees tied to cost savings or early completion, though this is less common with CPFF.

What is the expected long-term impact of this research on future aerospace technologies and personnel readiness?

This research is expected to yield significant advancements in understanding human physiological responses to extreme aerospace environments. Potential impacts include the development of advanced life support systems, optimized training protocols, and countermeasures for spaceflight-related health issues. Ultimately, this could enhance astronaut safety, mission effectiveness, and the overall readiness of personnel operating in demanding aerospace conditions.

Industry Classification

NAICS: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services › Scientific Research and Development Services › Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology)

Product/Service Code: RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT › OTHER RESEARCH/DEVELOPMENT

Competition & Pricing

Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Solicitation Procedures: SUBJECT TO MULTIPLE AWARD FAIR OPPORTUNITY

Solicitation ID: FA865019S6003

Offers Received: 4

Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE (U)

Evaluated Preference: NONE

Contractor Details

Address: 6909 METRO PARK DR STE 500, ALEXANDRIA, VA, 22310

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

Financial Breakdown

Contract Ceiling: $13,303,485

Exercised Options: $13,303,485

Current Obligation: $13,260,438

Actual Outlays: $1,021,171

Subaward Activity

Number of Subawards: 4

Total Subaward Amount: $538,277

Contract Characteristics

Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES PROCEDURES NOT USED

Cost or Pricing Data: NO

Parent Contract

Parent Award PIID: FA865020D6207

IDV Type: IDC

Timeline