DoD Awards $5.8M for Cyber Command Computer Services to JHU Applied Physics Lab
Contract Overview
Contract Amount: $5,799,325 ($5.8M)
Contractor: THE Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory LLC
Awarding Agency: Department of Defense
Start Date: 2024-08-01
End Date: 2026-07-31
Contract Duration: 729 days
Daily Burn Rate: $8.0K/day
Competition Type: NOT COMPETED
Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE
Sector: IT
Official Description: RDTE
Place of Performance
Location: FORT GEORGE G MEADE, ANNE ARUNDEL County, MARYLAND, 20755
State: Maryland Government Spending
Plain-Language Summary
Department of Defense obligated $5.8 million to THE JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY APPLIED PHYSICS LABORATORY LLC for work described as: RDTE Key points: 1. Significant award for specialized cyber research and development. 2. Sole-source award to a highly specialized entity raises competition questions. 3. Long-term contract (2 years) suggests ongoing critical need. 4. Focus on 'Other Computer Related Services' indicates niche technical support.
Value Assessment
Rating: questionable
The contract type is Cost Plus Fixed Fee, which can lead to cost overruns if not managed carefully. Benchmarking is difficult without more specific service details, but the total award value is substantial for specialized R&D.
Cost Per Unit: N/A
Competition Analysis
Competition Level: sole-source
This contract was not competed, indicating a sole-source award. This limits price discovery and potentially increases costs for taxpayers as competitive pressures are absent.
Taxpayer Impact: The lack of competition for this substantial award may result in a higher cost to taxpayers than if it had been competitively bid.
Public Impact
Enhances U.S. Cyber Command's capabilities through specialized research. Potential for advancements in cybersecurity technology and strategy. Impact on national security through improved cyber defense.
Waste & Efficiency Indicators
Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10
Warning Flags
- Lack of competition
- Cost-plus contract type
- Sole-source award
Positive Signals
- Supports critical national security mission
- Award to a reputable research institution
Sector Analysis
This award falls within the Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation (RDTE) sector, specifically for IT services. The value is moderate for specialized R&D contracts within the defense sector.
Small Business Impact
The awardee is a large research institution, and there is no indication of subcontracting opportunities for small businesses in the provided data.
Oversight & Accountability
Oversight will be crucial given the sole-source, cost-plus nature of the contract to ensure funds are used efficiently and effectively for the intended research.
Related Government Programs
- Other Computer Related Services
- Department of Defense Contracting
- U.S. Cyber Command Programs
Risk Flags
- Sole-source award
- Cost-plus contract type
- Lack of transparency on specific deliverables
- Potential for cost overruns
Tags
other-computer-related-services, department-of-defense, md, delivery-order, 1m-plus
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this federal contract paying for?
Department of Defense awarded $5.8 million to THE JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY APPLIED PHYSICS LABORATORY LLC. RDTE
Who is the contractor on this award?
The obligated recipient is THE JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY APPLIED PHYSICS LABORATORY LLC.
Which agency awarded this contract?
Awarding agency: Department of Defense (U.S. Cyber Command).
What is the total obligated amount?
The obligated amount is $5.8 million.
What is the period of performance?
Start: 2024-08-01. End: 2026-07-31.
What specific cyber capabilities will this funding enhance for U.S. Cyber Command?
The funding is allocated for 'Other Computer Related Services' under RDTE for U.S. Cyber Command. While specific details are not provided, it likely supports advanced research, development, and testing of new cybersecurity tools, strategies, and operational capabilities to counter evolving cyber threats and maintain a technological edge.
What are the primary risks associated with a sole-source, cost-plus fixed fee contract for cyber R&D?
The primary risks include potential cost overruns due to the cost-plus nature, as the contractor is reimbursed for allowable costs plus a fixed fee. The sole-source aspect eliminates competitive pressure, potentially leading to higher prices and reduced innovation. There's also a risk that the specific expertise required might not be available elsewhere, justifying the sole-source approach but still necessitating rigorous oversight.
How does this contract contribute to the overall effectiveness of U.S. cyber defense?
This contract contributes to effectiveness by investing in specialized research and development crucial for maintaining a leading edge in cybersecurity. By funding a leading institution like JHU APL, the DoD aims to develop advanced solutions and strategies to address complex and evolving cyber threats, thereby bolstering national security and protecting critical infrastructure.
Industry Classification
NAICS: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services › Computer Systems Design and Related Services › Other Computer Related Services
Product/Service Code: IT AND TELECOM - INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS › IT AND TELECOM - APLLICATIONS
Competition & Pricing
Extent Competed: NOT COMPETED
Solicitation Procedures: ONLY ONE SOURCE
Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE (U)
Evaluated Preference: NONE
Contractor Details
Address: 11100 JOHNS HOPKINS RD, LAUREL, MD, 20723
Business Categories: Category Business, Educational Institution, Higher Education, Limited Liability Corporation, Nonprofit Organization, Not Designated a Small Business, Higher Education (Private), Special Designations, U.S.-Owned Business
Financial Breakdown
Contract Ceiling: $8,559,989
Exercised Options: $8,559,989
Current Obligation: $5,799,325
Contract Characteristics
Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES PROCEDURES NOT USED
Cost or Pricing Data: YES
Parent Contract
Parent Award PIID: HB000124D0001
IDV Type: IDC
Timeline
Start Date: 2024-08-01
Current End Date: 2026-07-31
Potential End Date: 2027-07-31 00:00:00
Last Modified: 2025-12-22
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