DoD Awards BAE Systems $28.8M for R&D in Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences
Contract Overview
Contract Amount: $28,808,467 ($28.8M)
Contractor: BAE Systems Space & Mission Systems Inc.
Awarding Agency: Department of Defense
Start Date: 2020-07-24
End Date: 2027-01-23
Contract Duration: 2,374 days
Daily Burn Rate: $12.1K/day
Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION
Number of Offers Received: 2
Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE
Sector: R&D
Official Description: PULSED AND CONTINUOUS WAVE INNOVATION FOR INTEGRATION AND EFFECTS RESEARCH.
Place of Performance
Location: BOULDER, BOULDER County, COLORADO, 80301
State: Colorado Government Spending
Plain-Language Summary
Department of Defense obligated $28.8 million to BAE SYSTEMS SPACE & MISSION SYSTEMS INC. for work described as: PULSED AND CONTINUOUS WAVE INNOVATION FOR INTEGRATION AND EFFECTS RESEARCH. Key points: 1. Contract awarded to BAE Systems for research and development in physical, engineering, and life sciences. 2. The contract has a significant value of $28.8 million, indicating substantial investment in innovation. 3. Competition was full and open, suggesting a competitive bidding process. 4. The sector is Research and Development, crucial for future technological advancements.
Value Assessment
Rating: fair
The contract type is Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF), which can lead to cost overruns if not managed carefully. The award amount of $28.8 million needs to be benchmarked against similar R&D contracts to assess value.
Cost Per Unit: N/A
Competition Analysis
Competition Level: full-and-open
The contract was awarded under full and open competition, which generally promotes competitive pricing. However, the CPFF structure requires diligent oversight to ensure cost efficiency and prevent unnecessary expenses.
Taxpayer Impact: Taxpayer funds are being used for advanced research and development, which has the potential for long-term benefits but also carries inherent risks of research outcomes.
Public Impact
Investment in advanced R&D supports national security and technological superiority. Potential for breakthroughs in physical, engineering, and life sciences could have broad applications. Contract duration of nearly 4 years suggests a long-term research commitment.
Waste & Efficiency Indicators
Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10
Warning Flags
- Cost Plus Fixed Fee contract type can incentivize higher costs.
- Lack of specific performance metrics makes value assessment difficult.
- Limited information on the specific R&D focus.
Positive Signals
- Full and open competition promotes market fairness.
- Investment in critical R&D areas.
- Long contract duration allows for in-depth research.
Sector Analysis
This contract falls under the Research and Development sector, specifically focusing on physical, engineering, and life sciences. Spending in this area is critical for maintaining technological advantage, with benchmarks varying widely based on the specific research domain and project scope.
Small Business Impact
The contract was awarded to BAE Systems Space & Mission Systems Inc., a large business. There is no indication that small businesses were involved as subcontractors or partners in this specific award.
Oversight & Accountability
The Cost Plus Fixed Fee contract type necessitates robust oversight from the Department of the Air Force to monitor costs, ensure progress, and verify that the research aligns with stated objectives and delivers value.
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.
- Lack of detailed performance metrics.
- Potential for cost overruns.
- Research outcomes are inherently uncertain.
Tags
research-and-development-in-the-physical, department-of-defense, co, definitive-contract, 10m-plus
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this federal contract paying for?
Department of Defense awarded $28.8 million to BAE SYSTEMS SPACE & MISSION SYSTEMS INC.. PULSED AND CONTINUOUS WAVE INNOVATION FOR INTEGRATION AND EFFECTS RESEARCH.
Who is the contractor on this award?
The obligated recipient is BAE SYSTEMS SPACE & MISSION SYSTEMS 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 $28.8 million.
What is the period of performance?
Start: 2020-07-24. End: 2027-01-23.
What specific research outcomes are expected from this $28.8 million investment, and how will their success be measured?
The specific research outcomes are not detailed in the provided data. Measuring success for R&D contracts is often challenging and typically involves milestones related to feasibility studies, prototype development, testing, and eventual application. A clear definition of success metrics and deliverables is crucial for effective oversight and value assessment.
Given the CPFF structure, what mechanisms are in place to mitigate the risk of cost overruns and ensure efficient use of taxpayer funds?
Effective oversight by the Department of the Air Force is paramount. This includes rigorous review of incurred costs, regular progress reports, and potentially establishing cost ceilings or incentive clauses within the contract. Clear communication channels and performance reviews are essential to manage the CPFF structure responsibly.
How does this investment in 'Pulsed and Continuous Wave Innovation' align with broader Department of Defense research priorities and potential future operational needs?
The alignment with broader DoD priorities would depend on the specific nature of the 'innovation' being researched. If it pertains to advanced sensing, communication, or electronic warfare capabilities, it could be highly relevant. Understanding the specific applications and potential integration into future systems would clarify its strategic importance and effectiveness.
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: NEGOTIATED PROPOSAL/QUOTE
Solicitation ID: FA945118S0003
Offers Received: 2
Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE (U)
Evaluated Preference: NONE
Contractor Details
Address: 1600 COMMERCE ST UNIT 1, BOULDER, CO, 80301
Business Categories: Category Business, Corporate Entity Not Tax Exempt, Foreign Owned, Foreign-Owned and U.S.-Incorporated Business, Manufacturer of Goods, Not Designated a Small Business, Special Designations
Financial Breakdown
Contract Ceiling: $30,920,215
Exercised Options: $30,920,215
Current Obligation: $28,808,467
Actual Outlays: $3,340,612
Subaward Activity
Number of Subawards: 2
Total Subaward Amount: $666,908
Contract Characteristics
Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES PROCEDURES NOT USED
Cost or Pricing Data: YES
Timeline
Start Date: 2020-07-24
Current End Date: 2027-01-23
Potential End Date: 2027-01-23 00:00:00
Last Modified: 2025-09-16
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