Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab receives $1.7B for BMDS BCA Support, research and development
Contract Overview
Contract Amount: $17,193,374 ($17.2M)
Contractor: THE Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory LLC
Awarding Agency: Department of Defense
Start Date: 2018-02-26
End Date: 2026-02-28
Contract Duration: 2,924 days
Daily Burn Rate: $5.9K/day
Competition Type: NOT COMPETED
Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE
Sector: R&D
Official Description: BMDS BCA SUPPORT IGF::OT::IGF
Place of Performance
Location: LAUREL, HOWARD County, MARYLAND, 20723
State: Maryland Government Spending
Plain-Language Summary
Department of Defense obligated $17.2 million to THE JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY APPLIED PHYSICS LABORATORY LLC for work described as: BMDS BCA SUPPORT IGF::OT::IGF Key points: 1. Contract awarded to a single entity suggests potential for limited competition and price discovery. 2. Long duration of the contract (2924 days) may indicate a need for sustained support or potential for cost overruns. 3. Research and Development focus highlights investment in advanced technological capabilities. 4. Cost Plus Fixed Fee contract type can incentivize cost escalation if not closely monitored. 5. Significant contract value warrants scrutiny of performance and value for money. 6. Awarded by the Department of Defense, specifically the Missile Defense Agency, indicating a critical national security function.
Value Assessment
Rating: questionable
The contract's value of $1.7 billion over approximately 8 years is substantial. Without specific benchmarks for similar BMDS BCA support contracts, it is difficult to definitively assess value for money. The Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) structure, while common for R&D, carries inherent risks of cost growth if not managed rigorously. The lack of competition further complicates a direct value assessment, as there's no market-driven price comparison.
Cost Per Unit: N/A
Competition Analysis
Competition Level: sole-source
This contract was not competed, indicating a sole-source award. This approach bypasses the standard competitive bidding process, which typically leads to better price discovery and potentially lower costs for the government. The rationale for a sole-source award, especially for a significant value contract, would need to be thoroughly justified to ensure the government is receiving fair and reasonable pricing.
Taxpayer Impact: Sole-source awards mean taxpayers do not benefit from the cost savings typically achieved through competitive bidding, potentially leading to higher overall expenditure for the same services.
Public Impact
The primary beneficiaries are the Department of Defense and the Missile Defense Agency, receiving critical support for the Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS). Services delivered include research, development, and technical support essential for the advancement and sustainment of missile defense capabilities. The geographic impact is national, focusing on the development of strategic defense systems, though specific deployment locations are not detailed. Workforce implications include highly skilled researchers, engineers, and technical personnel employed by The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory LLC.
Waste & Efficiency Indicators
Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10
Warning Flags
- Cost Plus Fixed Fee contract type can lead to higher costs if not managed effectively.
- Sole-source award limits competitive pressure, potentially impacting price reasonableness.
- Long contract duration increases the risk of scope creep and cost overruns.
- Lack of transparency in the sole-source justification process.
Positive Signals
- Award to a reputable institution (JHU APL) known for its expertise in defense research.
- Focus on critical national security capabilities (BMDS).
- Contract aims to ensure sustained support for a complex defense system.
Sector Analysis
This contract falls within the Research and Development sector, specifically focusing on defense technologies. The Missile Defense Agency (MDA) is a key player in this domain, investing heavily in advanced systems to counter ballistic missile threats. The market for such specialized R&D is often concentrated among a few highly capable contractors, making sole-source or limited competition awards more frequent. Benchmarking spending in this niche requires comparison with other large-scale, specialized defense R&D contracts.
Small Business Impact
This contract does not appear to have a small business set-aside component, nor is there explicit information regarding subcontracting plans for small businesses. The nature of specialized R&D for complex defense systems often favors large, established research institutions. Further investigation into subcontracting opportunities would be necessary to determine the impact on the small business ecosystem.
Oversight & Accountability
Oversight for this contract would primarily reside with the Department of Defense and the Missile Defense Agency. Given the sole-source nature and significant value, rigorous oversight of performance, cost, and adherence to the contract's objectives is crucial. Transparency regarding the justification for the sole-source award and regular performance reviews are key accountability measures. Inspector General jurisdiction would apply to any potential fraud, waste, or abuse.
Related Government Programs
- Missile Defense Systems
- Ballistic Missile Defense Program
- Advanced Research Projects Agency (ARPA) Contracts
- Department of Defense Research and Development
- National Security Space Programs
Risk Flags
- Sole-source award may limit cost savings.
- Cost Plus Fixed Fee contract type carries inherent cost overrun risk.
- Long contract duration increases risk exposure.
- Lack of transparency in competition justification.
Tags
department-of-defense, missile-defense-agency, research-and-development, sole-source, cost-plus-fixed-fee, large-contract, national-security, maryland, jhu-apl, bmds
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this federal contract paying for?
Department of Defense awarded $17.2 million to THE JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY APPLIED PHYSICS LABORATORY LLC. BMDS BCA SUPPORT IGF::OT::IGF
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 (Missile Defense Agency).
What is the total obligated amount?
The obligated amount is $17.2 million.
What is the period of performance?
Start: 2018-02-26. End: 2026-02-28.
What is the specific technical scope of 'BMDS BCA SUPPORT' and why was it deemed sole-source?
BMDS BCA SUPPORT likely refers to Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS) Baseline Capability Analysis (BCA) support. This involves providing technical expertise, analysis, and potentially system integration support for the various components and architectures of the U.S. missile defense shield. The rationale for a sole-source award, especially for a significant contract like this, typically stems from unique capabilities, proprietary knowledge, or a demonstrated lack of alternative sources that can meet the specific, highly specialized requirements of the BMDS. The Missile Defense Agency would have conducted a thorough market research and justification process to determine that The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory LLC was the only responsible source capable of fulfilling these critical needs, likely due to their long-standing involvement and deep institutional knowledge of the BMDS.
How does the Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) contract structure compare to other R&D contract types in terms of risk and potential for cost overruns?
The Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) contract structure is common in research and development where the scope of work can be uncertain and evolve. In a CPFF contract, the contractor is reimbursed for all allowable costs incurred, plus a predetermined fixed fee representing profit. This structure shifts much of the cost risk to the government, as the contractor has less incentive to control costs beyond what is necessary to complete the work. Compared to fixed-price contracts, CPFF offers greater flexibility for evolving R&D projects but carries a higher risk of cost overruns if not meticulously managed and overseen. Other R&D contract types, like Cost Plus Incentive Fee (CPIF), can introduce cost-sharing mechanisms to incentivize efficiency, while Cost No Fee (CNF) is used when the outcome is highly uncertain and the government is willing to bear the full cost risk without a fee.
What is the historical spending trend for BMDS BCA SUPPORT or similar services provided by JHU APL to the DoD?
Analyzing historical spending for BMDS BCA SUPPORT specifically awarded to JHU APL requires access to detailed contract databases. However, JHU APL is a significant recipient of federal R&D funding, particularly from the Department of Defense and NASA, often in the realm of advanced technology and systems engineering. Their involvement with the BMDS is well-documented, suggesting a consistent and substantial funding stream over many years. Without specific historical data for this exact contract line item, it's reasonable to infer that JHU APL has received substantial, likely multi-year funding for its contributions to missile defense research and development, reflecting the ongoing and evolving nature of this critical national security program. Trends would likely show sustained or increasing investment commensurate with the perceived threat landscape and technological advancements.
What are the key performance indicators (KPIs) typically used to evaluate the success of R&D contracts like this one?
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for R&D contracts like the BMDS BCA SUPPORT are multifaceted and often qualitative as well as quantitative. They typically include adherence to technical performance specifications, successful completion of research milestones within agreed timelines, and the quality of deliverables such as reports, analyses, and prototypes. For a system like BMDS, KPIs might also involve the effectiveness of proposed solutions, contributions to system integration, and the accuracy of threat assessments. Innovation and the generation of new knowledge or technologies are also crucial. Given the CPFF structure, cost control and efficient resource utilization, while not the primary driver, are also monitored. Ultimately, the success is measured by the contractor's ability to advance the capabilities and understanding of the BMDS in a way that meets the evolving requirements of the Missile Defense Agency.
Are there any known performance issues or past controversies associated with JHU APL's work on BMDS or similar large-scale defense projects?
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (JHU APL) has a long and generally well-regarded history of supporting complex defense and space programs, including significant contributions to the BMDS. As a University Affiliated Research Center (UARC), it operates under specific guidelines emphasizing objective research and development. While specific performance issues on individual contracts are not publicly detailed without formal investigations or reports, large-scale, long-duration defense projects inherently face challenges related to technological complexity, evolving requirements, and budget fluctuations. JHU APL's extensive experience and track record suggest a high level of technical competence. However, like any major contractor on complex systems, scrutiny regarding cost, schedule, and technical performance is standard. Publicly available information does not indicate widespread or systemic controversies directly tied to JHU APL's core performance on BMDS.
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: NOT COMPETED
Solicitation Procedures: ONLY ONE SOURCE
Solicitation ID: HQ014717R0041
Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE (U)
Evaluated Preference: NONE
Contractor Details
Address: 11100 JOHNS HOPKINS RD, LAUREL, MD, 20723
Business Categories: Category Business, Limited Liability Corporation, Nonprofit Organization, Not Designated a Small Business, Special Designations, U.S.-Owned Business
Financial Breakdown
Contract Ceiling: $17,840,495
Exercised Options: $17,840,495
Current Obligation: $17,193,374
Actual Outlays: $564,483
Contract Characteristics
Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES PROCEDURES NOT USED
Cost or Pricing Data: NO
Parent Contract
Parent Award PIID: HQ014718D0004
IDV Type: IDC
Timeline
Start Date: 2018-02-26
Current End Date: 2026-02-28
Potential End Date: 2026-02-28 00:00:00
Last Modified: 2025-12-11
More Contracts from THE Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory LLC
- Dragonfly Extended Phase B Mission Under 80msfc20d0004 Aerospace Research, Development and Engineering Support (ardes) II — $1.3B (National Aeronautics and Space Administration)
- Aerospace Research, Design, and Development Tasks for Nasa — $1.1B (National Aeronautics and Space Administration)
- Solar Probe Plus (SPP) Phase a Activities the Contractor Shall Perform the Work That IS Designated in Task Orders Issued by the Contracting Officer. the Overall Scope of Work to BE Performed Will Support ALL of Nasa's Mission Directorates. These Efforts CAN BE Characterized AS Aerospace Research, Development, and Engineering Support (ardes). the General Nature of the Tasks to BE Developed Will BE to Conduct Supporting Research and Advanced Technology Development Designed to Make Contributions to Space Science and Space Exploration and Assist Nasa in the Formulation and Execution of ITS Programs by Providing Nasa With Technical Advice, Studies, and Reports of Investigations. Efforts Undertaken by the Contractor, in the Performance of the Assigned Tasks, Which Include Technology Transfer, Partnering and Commercialization Activities, Shall Seek to Enhance the Value and Contribution of Technology to the Nation S Technological Competitiveness, Prosperity, Quality of Life, and Other National Priorities. Individual Task Orders Will Fall Within ONE of TWO Broad Categories: 1) Essential Research Capability of Space Systems Engineering, and Related Work in the Supporting Essential Research Capabilities of Systems Test and Evaluation, Information Technology, and Simulation, Modeling and Operations Analysis. Task Orders Within the Category of Essential Research Capabilities ARE Intended to Preserve the Nation S Capabilities to Perform Robotic Space Missions Over the Full Mission Life Cycle From Concept Formulation Through Mission Operations and Data Analysis. Nasa IS Contracting for Support in Several KEY Research, Engineering and Development Competencies That ARE Fundamental to the Performance of These Missions. 2) Other Aerospace Research, Development, and Engineering Support. Task Orders Within the Category of Other Aerospace Research, Development and Engineering Support ARE Intended to Include a Broad Base of Scientific and Technical Capabilities Relevant to Nasa Program Responsibilities and Assignments. Regardless of Category, Task Orders MAY BE Issued Related to Autonomous Deep-Space and Earth-Orbiting Spacecraft or Major Subsystems, Experiments, Instruments or Other Devices That MAY BE Carried AS Payloads on the Space Shuttle or on Other Spacecraft. Task Assignments Will Explicitly Describe a Broad Range of Hardware, Software, Systems Engineering, Scientific Analysis, and Management Efforts Including Program and Project Management and Administration — $894.5M (National Aeronautics and Space Administration)
- SUN Earth Connection Living With a Star Program Letter Contract — $522.1M (National Aeronautics and Space Administration)
- Interstellar Mapping and Acceleration Probe (imap) Phase CD — $400.0M (National Aeronautics and Space Administration)
View all THE Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory LLC federal contracts →
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)