DoD's $11.5M contract for WMD analysis leverages advanced computation, awarded to Leidos, Inc
Contract Overview
Contract Amount: $11,524,948 ($11.5M)
Contractor: Leidos, Inc.
Awarding Agency: Department of Defense
Start Date: 2019-05-02
End Date: 2026-05-01
Contract Duration: 2,556 days
Daily Burn Rate: $4.5K/day
Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION
Number of Offers Received: 1
Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE
Sector: R&D
Official Description: ADVANCED COMPUTATIONAL ANALYSIS USED TO IDENTIFY, DEFEAT, AND ASSESS WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION
Place of Performance
Location: RESTON, FAIRFAX County, VIRGINIA, 20190
State: Virginia Government Spending
Plain-Language Summary
Department of Defense obligated $11.5 million to LEIDOS, INC. for work described as: ADVANCED COMPUTATIONAL ANALYSIS USED TO IDENTIFY, DEFEAT, AND ASSESS WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION Key points: 1. Contract focuses on advanced computational analysis for identifying and assessing weapons of mass destruction. 2. Awarded to a single, large contractor, Leidos, Inc., suggesting specialized capabilities are required. 3. The contract duration of 2556 days indicates a long-term need for these critical services. 4. Performance is situated within the Defense Threat Reduction Agency, highlighting national security implications. 5. The Research and Development sector (NAICS 541715) points to innovation and scientific advancement. 6. A Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) pricing structure is utilized, common in R&D where costs can be variable.
Value Assessment
Rating: good
The contract value of approximately $11.5 million over its duration appears reasonable for specialized R&D in WMD analysis. Benchmarking against similar contracts for advanced computational modeling and defense-related research would provide a more precise value-for-money assessment. The CPFF structure, while allowing for flexibility in research, necessitates careful oversight to manage costs effectively and ensure the fixed fee remains competitive.
Cost Per Unit: N/A
Competition Analysis
Competition Level: full-and-open
The contract was awarded under full and open competition, indicating that multiple bidders were likely considered. This approach generally promotes competitive pricing and allows the government to select the offeror with the best combination of technical capability and price. The presence of a single award suggests Leidos, Inc. was the most qualified bidder for this specific, complex requirement.
Taxpayer Impact: Full and open competition is beneficial for taxpayers as it drives down costs through market forces and ensures the government secures the most capable provider for critical national security functions.
Public Impact
The primary beneficiaries are national security agencies and the Department of Defense, receiving advanced analytical capabilities. Services delivered include identification, defeat, and assessment of weapons of mass destruction threats. The geographic impact is national, supporting U.S. defense strategies and threat reduction efforts. Workforce implications include highly skilled scientists, engineers, and analysts specializing in computational modeling and WMD.
Waste & Efficiency Indicators
Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10
Warning Flags
- Potential for cost overruns inherent in Cost Plus Fixed Fee contracts if not rigorously managed.
- Reliance on a single contractor for critical WMD analysis capabilities could pose a risk if performance degrades.
- The specialized nature of the work may limit the pool of qualified subcontractors, potentially impacting small business participation.
Positive Signals
- Awarded through full and open competition, suggesting a robust selection process and competitive pricing.
- Contractor (Leidos, Inc.) is a well-established entity with significant experience in government contracting and defense solutions.
- Focus on advanced computational analysis indicates a commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology for national security.
Sector Analysis
This contract falls within the Research and Development sector, specifically focusing on advanced computational analysis for defense applications. The market for such specialized services is characterized by high barriers to entry due to the need for advanced technical expertise and security clearances. Comparable spending often involves significant investments in simulation, modeling, and data analytics for national security purposes, with agencies like DARPA and other DoD components being major players.
Small Business Impact
While the contract was awarded under full and open competition and does not appear to have a specific small business set-aside, the prime contractor, Leidos, Inc., is a large entity. Analysis of subcontracting plans would be necessary to determine the extent of small business involvement. Large prime contractors often utilize small businesses for specialized support services, but the highly technical nature of WMD analysis might limit opportunities.
Oversight & Accountability
Oversight for this contract would typically fall under the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) and potentially the Department of Defense's Inspector General. Mechanisms likely include regular performance reviews, financial audits, and adherence to reporting requirements stipulated in the Cost Plus Fixed Fee contract. Transparency is generally maintained through contract reporting systems, though specific operational details may be classified.
Related Government Programs
- DoD WMD Elimination Program
- DARPA Research Initiatives
- National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) Programs
- Intelligence Community Threat Assessment Contracts
Risk Flags
- Cost Overrun Risk (CPFF)
- Contractor Performance Dependency
- Potential for Scope Creep in R&D
Tags
defense, department-of-defense, wmd-analysis, computational-analysis, research-and-development, leidos-inc, cost-plus-fixed-fee, full-and-open-competition, national-security, dtra, virginia, definitive-contract
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this federal contract paying for?
Department of Defense awarded $11.5 million to LEIDOS, INC.. ADVANCED COMPUTATIONAL ANALYSIS USED TO IDENTIFY, DEFEAT, AND ASSESS WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION
Who is the contractor on this award?
The obligated recipient is LEIDOS, INC..
Which agency awarded this contract?
Awarding agency: Department of Defense (Defense Threat Reduction Agency).
What is the total obligated amount?
The obligated amount is $11.5 million.
What is the period of performance?
Start: 2019-05-02. End: 2026-05-01.
What is Leidos, Inc.'s track record with similar advanced computational analysis contracts for the Department of Defense?
Leidos, Inc. has a substantial track record with the Department of Defense, frequently securing contracts for advanced research, development, and technical services. They are known for their expertise in areas such as data analytics, cybersecurity, and systems engineering, which are relevant to computational analysis. While specific details on WMD-focused computational contracts may be sensitive, Leidos's overall performance with DoD suggests a capacity to handle complex, high-value R&D projects. Their history includes numerous large-scale contracts across various defense agencies, indicating a strong understanding of government procurement processes and performance expectations.
How does the $11.5 million contract value compare to other WMD analysis or advanced computational R&D contracts?
The $11.5 million contract value, spread over approximately 2556 days (about 7 years), translates to an average annual value of roughly $1.6 million. This figure is moderate for advanced R&D contracts within the defense sector. Larger, more complex WMD-related research programs or those involving extensive hardware development can easily reach tens or hundreds of millions of dollars. However, contracts focused on specific analytical capabilities, software development, or specialized modeling, like this one appears to be, can fall within this range. Benchmarking requires comparing it to contracts with similar scope, duration, and technical complexity, particularly those awarded by DTRA or other agencies focused on threat reduction.
What are the primary risks associated with this Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) contract structure for WMD analysis?
The primary risk with a CPFF contract structure in advanced R&D, such as WMD analysis, is the potential for cost overruns. While the contractor is incentivized to control costs to achieve their fixed fee, the 'cost-plus' element means the government bears the risk of actual expenses incurred. If the research proves more complex or requires more resources than initially anticipated, the total cost to the government can escalate beyond initial projections. Effective oversight, detailed cost tracking, and rigorous review of incurred costs are crucial to mitigate this risk and ensure the government receives good value. The fixed fee itself should also be periodically reviewed to ensure it remains fair and competitive.
How effective is advanced computational analysis in identifying and defeating weapons of mass destruction?
Advanced computational analysis is increasingly vital in identifying and defeating weapons of mass destruction (WMD). It enables the processing of vast datasets from various sources (e.g., intelligence, sensor data, open-source information) to detect patterns indicative of WMD proliferation or intent. Sophisticated modeling and simulation can predict the effects of WMDs, aiding in response planning and mitigation strategies. Furthermore, computational tools can assist in designing countermeasures, optimizing detection systems, and analyzing the vulnerabilities of WMD delivery systems. While not a standalone solution, it significantly enhances human analytical capabilities, improves situational awareness, and supports faster, more informed decision-making in a complex threat environment.
What is the historical spending trend for WMD analysis and related R&D within the Department of Defense?
Historical spending by the Department of Defense on WMD analysis and related R&D has been substantial and generally consistent, reflecting the enduring nature of the threat. Agencies like the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) are central to these efforts, receiving significant appropriations annually. Spending fluctuates based on geopolitical events, emerging threats, and technological advancements. Over the past decade, there has been a continued emphasis on leveraging advanced technologies, including AI, machine learning, and high-performance computing, to counter evolving WMD threats. While specific figures vary year-to-year, the overall trend indicates sustained investment in maintaining and advancing capabilities in this critical national security domain.
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 › DEFENSE (OTHER) R&D
Competition & Pricing
Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION
Solicitation Procedures: NEGOTIATED PROPOSAL/QUOTE
Offers Received: 1
Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE (U)
Evaluated Preference: NONE
Contractor Details
Parent Company: Leidos Holdings, Inc.
Address: 11951 FREEDOM DR, RESTON, VA, 20190
Business Categories: Category Business, Corporate Entity Not Tax Exempt, Not Designated a Small Business, Special Designations, U.S.-Owned Business
Financial Breakdown
Contract Ceiling: $12,627,888
Exercised Options: $12,627,888
Current Obligation: $11,524,948
Actual Outlays: $3,575,335
Subaward Activity
Number of Subawards: 24
Total Subaward Amount: $7,043,452
Contract Characteristics
Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES PROCEDURES NOT USED
Cost or Pricing Data: NO
Timeline
Start Date: 2019-05-02
Current End Date: 2026-05-01
Potential End Date: 2026-05-01 00:00:00
Last Modified: 2025-09-29
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