L3Harris Technologies awarded $9.5M for Next Gen Processing and Exploitation R&D by Air Force
Contract Overview
Contract Amount: $9,505,148 ($9.5M)
Contractor: L3harris Technologies, Inc.
Awarding Agency: Department of Defense
Start Date: 2024-09-11
End Date: 2026-11-10
Contract Duration: 790 days
Daily Burn Rate: $12.0K/day
Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION
Number of Offers Received: 2
Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE
Sector: R&D
Official Description: NEXT GEN PROCESSING AND EXPLOITATION
Place of Performance
Location: ROCHESTER, MONROE County, NEW YORK, 14624
State: New York Government Spending
Plain-Language Summary
Department of Defense obligated $9.5 million to L3HARRIS TECHNOLOGIES, INC. for work described as: NEXT GEN PROCESSING AND EXPLOITATION Key points: 1. Contract focuses on advanced research and development, indicating potential for future technological advancements. 2. Full and open competition suggests a robust market and potentially competitive pricing. 3. The definitive contract type implies a clear scope of work for this R&D effort. 4. Research and Development in Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences is a critical area for defense innovation. 5. The contract duration of approximately two years allows for focused development and testing. 6. The award to a single contractor, L3Harris Technologies, Inc., highlights their specialized capabilities in this domain.
Value Assessment
Rating: good
The contract value of $9.5 million for a two-year R&D effort in advanced processing and exploitation appears reasonable given the specialized nature of the work. Benchmarking against similar R&D contracts in the defense sector would provide further context, but the scope suggests a significant technological undertaking. The Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) structure allows for flexibility in research while maintaining cost control for the government.
Cost Per Unit: N/A
Competition Analysis
Competition Level: full-and-open
The contract was awarded under full and open competition, indicating that multiple capable vendors had the opportunity to bid. This process is designed to foster a competitive environment, which typically leads to better pricing and innovation. The presence of two bids suggests a healthy level of interest and competition for this specific R&D requirement.
Taxpayer Impact: Full and open competition generally benefits taxpayers by driving down costs through market forces and encouraging a wider pool of innovative solutions.
Public Impact
The Department of the Air Force is the primary beneficiary, seeking advancements in processing and exploitation capabilities. This contract supports the development of next-generation technologies crucial for national security. The research conducted could have implications for intelligence gathering and analysis. Workforce implications may include specialized roles for scientists, engineers, and researchers in the New York area.
Waste & Efficiency Indicators
Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10
Warning Flags
- Potential for cost overruns inherent in Cost Plus Fixed Fee R&D contracts.
- The specific technological advancements and their practical application require ongoing monitoring.
- Dependence on a single contractor for critical R&D could pose future supply chain risks if not managed.
Positive Signals
- Awarded through full and open competition, suggesting a competitive process.
- Focus on R&D aligns with strategic defense modernization goals.
- Clear contract duration provides a defined timeline for deliverables.
- The contractor, L3Harris Technologies, Inc., is a recognized leader in aerospace and defense technology.
Sector Analysis
This contract falls within the Research and Development sector, specifically focusing on physical, engineering, and life sciences. The defense R&D market is characterized by significant government investment aimed at maintaining technological superiority. Comparable spending benchmarks would involve analyzing other R&D contracts awarded by the Department of Defense for advanced processing and exploitation technologies, which often involve substantial funding due to the complexity and cutting-edge nature of the research.
Small Business Impact
This contract was not set aside for small businesses, and there is no indication of subcontracting requirements for small businesses in the provided data. The focus on specialized R&D may limit direct opportunities for small businesses unless they are part of a larger subcontracting team. Further analysis would be needed to determine if L3Harris Technologies, Inc. has a history of engaging small businesses on similar projects.
Oversight & Accountability
Oversight for this contract will likely be managed by the Department of the Air Force contracting and program management offices. Accountability measures are embedded within the Cost Plus Fixed Fee structure, requiring detailed reporting and justification of costs. Transparency is generally maintained through contract award databases and reporting requirements, though specific R&D details may be sensitive.
Related Government Programs
- Advanced Analytics R&D
- Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) Technology Development
- Next Generation Intelligence Processing Systems
- Department of Defense Research and Development Programs
Risk Flags
- Cost Overrun Risk (CPFF)
- Scope Creep Potential
- Technological Obsolescence
- Dependence on Single Contractor
Tags
research-and-development, department-of-defense, air-force, definitive-contract, cost-plus-fixed-fee, full-and-open-competition, intelligence-processing, new-york, l3harris-technologies, advanced-technology
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this federal contract paying for?
Department of Defense awarded $9.5 million to L3HARRIS TECHNOLOGIES, INC.. NEXT GEN PROCESSING AND EXPLOITATION
Who is the contractor on this award?
The obligated recipient is L3HARRIS TECHNOLOGIES, INC..
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 $9.5 million.
What is the period of performance?
Start: 2024-09-11. End: 2026-11-10.
What is L3Harris Technologies, Inc.'s track record with similar R&D contracts for the Department of Defense?
L3Harris Technologies, Inc. has a substantial track record with the Department of Defense, frequently securing contracts for advanced technology development, including areas related to intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), and processing systems. Their history includes numerous R&D awards across various branches of the military. Analyzing their past performance on Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) contracts specifically would reveal their ability to manage research scope, control costs, and deliver innovative solutions within defined timelines. Publicly available contract databases often show a consistent pattern of awards, reflecting their established position as a key defense contractor. However, a deeper dive into specific project outcomes and any past performance issues would be necessary for a comprehensive assessment.
How does the $9.5 million value compare to similar R&D contracts for advanced processing and exploitation?
The $9.5 million award for a two-year R&D effort in 'NEXT GEN PROCESSING AND EXPLOITATION' is within a typical range for specialized defense research projects. Contracts in this domain can vary significantly based on the complexity of the technology, the maturity of the research, and the specific objectives. For instance, foundational research might cost less, while development of highly integrated systems could run into tens or hundreds of millions. Given that this is a definitive contract with a clear scope and duration, and awarded under full and open competition, the value suggests a focused R&D initiative rather than a large-scale system procurement. Benchmarking against contracts with similar NAICS codes (e.g., 541715) and contract types (CPFF) awarded by the Air Force or other DoD agencies would provide more precise comparative data.
What are the primary risks associated with this Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) contract structure for R&D?
The primary risks associated with a CPFF contract for R&D, like this one, revolve around cost control and scope definition. While CPFF provides flexibility for research that may encounter unforeseen technical challenges, it can lead to cost overruns if the contractor's estimated costs are inaccurate or if the scope of work expands without proper adjustments. The government bears the risk of cost increases above the estimated amount, up to the contract ceiling. For the contractor, the risk lies in not being able to complete the work within the estimated costs while still meeting the fixed fee requirements. Effective oversight, detailed progress reporting, and robust change management processes are crucial to mitigate these risks and ensure value for taxpayer money.
What is the expected impact of 'NEXT GEN PROCESSING AND EXPLOITATION' R&D on the Air Force's capabilities?
The 'NEXT GEN PROCESSING AND EXPLOITATION' R&D is expected to significantly enhance the Air Force's ability to process and derive actionable intelligence from vast amounts of data collected by various sensors and platforms. This could involve developing more sophisticated algorithms for pattern recognition, anomaly detection, and data fusion. The goal is likely to accelerate the intelligence cycle, enabling faster decision-making in complex operational environments. Advancements in this area are critical for maintaining situational awareness, identifying threats, and supporting mission success in modern warfare, where data volume and speed are paramount.
How has federal spending in R&D for intelligence processing evolved over the past five years?
Federal spending in R&D for intelligence processing has seen a consistent upward trend over the past five years, driven by the increasing volume of data generated by advanced ISR platforms and the need for more sophisticated analytical tools. Agencies like the Department of Defense (DoD) and intelligence community components have prioritized investments in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and advanced data analytics to improve the speed and accuracy of intelligence processing. This includes funding for research into automated analysis, predictive modeling, and secure data sharing capabilities. The focus has shifted from manual analysis to automated and semi-automated systems capable of handling big data challenges, reflecting a strategic imperative to maintain 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 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
Solicitation ID: FA875021S7006
Offers Received: 2
Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE (U)
Evaluated Preference: NONE
Contractor Details
Parent Company: L3harris Technologies, Inc
Address: 332 INITIATIVE DRIVE, ROCHESTER, NY, 14624
Business Categories: Category Business, Corporate Entity Not Tax Exempt, Limited Liability Corporation, Manufacturer of Goods, Not Designated a Small Business, Special Designations, U.S.-Owned Business
Financial Breakdown
Contract Ceiling: $11,508,738
Exercised Options: $11,508,738
Current Obligation: $9,505,148
Contract Characteristics
Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES PROCEDURES NOT USED
Cost or Pricing Data: YES
Timeline
Start Date: 2024-09-11
Current End Date: 2026-11-10
Potential End Date: 2026-11-10 00:00:00
Last Modified: 2026-01-14
More Contracts from L3harris Technologies, Inc.
- 200204!000024!5700!GV59 !esc/Ndk !F1962802C0010 !A!N! !N! !20020130!20020930!052819732!052819732!001216845!n!itt Industries, Inc , Systems !4410 E Fountain Blvd !colorado Sprin !co!80916!16000!041!08!colorado Springs !EL Paso !colorado !+000003175920!n!n!000519009204!j099!maint & Repair of Eq/Miscellaneous Equipment !A7 !electronics and Communication !3gwq!474l Bmews !541512!E! !3! ! ! ! ! !99990909!B! ! !B! !a!n!r!2!002!b! !Z!N!Z! ! !N!C!N! ! ! !a!a!a!a!000!a!d!n! ! ! ! ! ! !0001! — $2.2B (Department of Defense)
- THE Purpose of This Contract IS to Develop the Ground System That Will Support Noaa S Next Generation Geostationary Satellite Series, Goes-R. This NEW Series of Spacecraft, SET to Begin Launching in 2015, IS Expected to Double the Clarity of Today S Satellite Imagery and Provide AT Least 20 Times More Atmospheric Observations From Space. the Contractor IS to Design, Develop, Test and Implement the Goes-R Ground System. the Ground System Will Capture Data From the Goes-R Satellites, and Process and Distribute the Information to Operational Users — $1.8B (Department of Commerce)
- Requisition for MOD - Incrementally Funded - This PR Provides Funding for Ads-B National Contract Support for SBS Program Office — $1.3B (Department of Transportation)
- Award of Maintenance of Space Surveillence and Integrated Capabilities Contract — $1.2B (Department of Defense)
- TAS::80 0122::TAS Development, Manufacturing and Support to Weather Observing Instrument — $1.0B (National Aeronautics and Space Administration)
Other Department of Defense Contracts
- Federal Contract — $51.3B (Humana Government Business Inc)
- Lrip LOT 12 Advance Acquisition Contract — $35.1B (Lockheed Martin Corporation)
- SSN 802 and 803 Long Lead Time Material — $34.7B (Electric Boat Corporation)
- 200204!008532!1700!AF600 !naval AIR Systems Command !N0001902C3002 !A!N! !N! !20011026!20120430!008016958!008016958!834951691!n!lockheed Martin Corporation !lockheed Blvd !fort Worth !tx!76108!27000!439!48!fort Worth !tarrant !texas !+000026000000!n!n!018981928201!ac15!rdte/Aircraft-Eng/Manuf Develop !a1a!airframes and Spares !2ama!jast/Jsf !336411!E! !3! ! ! ! ! !99990909!B! ! !A! !a!n!r!2!002!n!1a!a!n!z! ! !N!C!N! ! ! !a!a!a!a!000!a!c!n! ! ! !Y! !N00019!0001! — $34.2B (Lockheed Martin Corporation)
- KC-X Modernization Program — $32.0B (THE Boeing Company)