DoD Awards $9.6M for Advanced Sensor R&D to Defense Engineering Corp under Full and Open Competition
Contract Overview
Contract Amount: $9,620,919 ($9.6M)
Contractor: Defense Engineering Corp
Awarding Agency: Department of Defense
Start Date: 2022-12-23
End Date: 2027-06-30
Contract Duration: 1,650 days
Daily Burn Rate: $5.8K/day
Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION
Number of Offers Received: 56
Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE
Sector: R&D
Official Description: SENSORS FOR UNRIVALED MULTI-FUNCTION MISSIONS WITH INTEGRATED TECHNOLOGIES
Place of Performance
Location: BEAVERCREEK, GREENE County, OHIO, 45440
State: Ohio Government Spending
Plain-Language Summary
Department of Defense obligated $9.6 million to DEFENSE ENGINEERING CORP for work described as: SENSORS FOR UNRIVALED MULTI-FUNCTION MISSIONS WITH INTEGRATED TECHNOLOGIES Key points: 1. The contract focuses on advanced sensor technology for multi-function missions, a critical area for defense modernization. 2. Defense Engineering Corp, a single awardee, will develop these integrated technologies. 3. The primary risk lies in the successful integration and performance of novel sensor technologies. 4. Spending falls under the R&D sector, specifically Research and Development in Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences.
Value Assessment
Rating: fair
The contract value of $9.6M for R&D is moderate. Benchmarking is difficult without specific comparable sensor R&D contracts, but the cost-plus-fixed-fee structure suggests potential for cost overruns if not managed tightly.
Cost Per Unit: N/A
Competition Analysis
Competition Level: full-and-open
The contract was awarded under full and open competition, indicating a competitive bidding process. However, it resulted in a single award, suggesting Defense Engineering Corp was the most qualified or best-value offeror.
Taxpayer Impact: Taxpayer funds are being invested in advanced technology development, with the potential for significant long-term defense capabilities if successful.
Public Impact
Enhances U.S. Air Force's technological superiority through advanced sensor capabilities. Supports innovation in defense research and development, potentially leading to dual-use technologies. Investment in domestic R&D infrastructure and expertise.
Waste & Efficiency Indicators
Waste Risk Score: 58 / 10
Warning Flags
- Potential for cost overruns in Cost Plus Fixed Fee contracts.
- Dependence on a single contractor for critical technology development.
- Uncertainty in achieving desired performance metrics for novel sensor tech.
Positive Signals
- Awarded under full and open competition.
- Focus on critical defense modernization area.
- Potential for significant technological advancement.
Sector Analysis
This contract falls under the Research and Development sector, specifically NAICS code 541715. Spending in this area is crucial for maintaining a technological edge, with benchmarks varying widely based on the specific research area and project scope.
Small Business Impact
The contract data indicates no specific set-aside for small businesses. The prime contractor, Defense Engineering Corp, is not identified as a small business. Opportunities for small businesses may exist as subcontractors.
Oversight & Accountability
The Department of Defense's oversight mechanisms will be critical in managing the Cost Plus Fixed Fee contract to ensure cost control and adherence to performance milestones. Regular reporting and reviews are expected.
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 overrun potential in CPFF contract.
- Reliance on a single contractor for critical R&D.
- Technical challenges in integrating multiple sensor functions.
- Uncertainty of achieving desired performance metrics.
- Lack of small business participation noted.
Tags
research-and-development-in-the-physical, department-of-defense, oh, definitive-contract, 1m-plus
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this federal contract paying for?
Department of Defense awarded $9.6 million to DEFENSE ENGINEERING CORP. SENSORS FOR UNRIVALED MULTI-FUNCTION MISSIONS WITH INTEGRATED TECHNOLOGIES
Who is the contractor on this award?
The obligated recipient is DEFENSE ENGINEERING CORP.
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 $9.6 million.
What is the period of performance?
Start: 2022-12-23. End: 2027-06-30.
What is the projected return on investment for this advanced sensor R&D, considering the potential for technological breakthroughs?
The return on investment is difficult to quantify precisely at this R&D stage. However, successful development of 'unrivaled multi-function sensors' could yield significant strategic advantages, enhance operational effectiveness, and potentially lead to cost savings in future platforms by consolidating sensor functionalities. The long-term value hinges on the successful transition from research to deployable technology.
What are the key technical risks associated with integrating 'unrivaled multi-function technologies' into a single sensor system?
Key risks include ensuring interoperability between diverse sensor components, managing power consumption and heat dissipation for integrated systems, maintaining signal integrity across multiple functions, and achieving the required sensitivity and accuracy for each individual sensor modality within a compact form factor. Software integration and data fusion also present significant challenges.
How will the effectiveness of the developed sensors be measured and validated to ensure they meet the Department of the Air Force's mission requirements?
Effectiveness will likely be measured through a phased approach involving laboratory testing, simulation, and field trials. Key performance parameters (KPPs) will be defined in the contract, covering aspects like detection range, accuracy, resolution, environmental resilience, and power efficiency. Independent verification and validation (IV&V) by the Air Force will ensure the sensors meet specified operational needs.
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 › C – National Defense R&D Services
Competition & Pricing
Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION
Solicitation Procedures: BASIC RESEARCH
Offers Received: 56
Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE (U)
Evaluated Preference: NONE
Contractor Details
Address: 124 CHARTLEY CT, BEAVERCREEK, OH, 45440
Business Categories: Category Business, Corporate Entity Not Tax Exempt, Not Designated a Small Business, Special Designations, Subchapter S Corporation, U.S.-Owned Business
Financial Breakdown
Contract Ceiling: $14,718,782
Exercised Options: $14,718,782
Current Obligation: $9,620,919
Contract Characteristics
Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES PROCEDURES NOT USED
Cost or Pricing Data: YES
Timeline
Start Date: 2022-12-23
Current End Date: 2027-06-30
Potential End Date: 2027-06-30 00:00:00
Last Modified: 2025-12-04
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