DoD's $34.4M KQ-X Autonomous Refueling Demo by Northrop Grumman: R&D in Physical Sciences
Contract Overview
Contract Amount: $34,442,905 ($34.4M)
Contractor: Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation
Awarding Agency: Department of Defense
Start Date: 2010-06-30
End Date: 2012-09-30
Contract Duration: 823 days
Daily Burn Rate: $41.9K/day
Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION
Number of Offers Received: 123
Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE
Sector: R&D
Official Description: KQ-X AUTONOMOUS REFUELING DEMONSTRATION
Place of Performance
Location: SAN DIEGO, SAN DIEGO County, CALIFORNIA, 92127
Plain-Language Summary
Department of Defense obligated $34.4 million to NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION for work described as: KQ-X AUTONOMOUS REFUELING DEMONSTRATION Key points: 1. Spending focused on R&D for autonomous refueling technology. 2. Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation is the sole awardee. 3. Contract awarded via full and open competition. 4. Potential for significant advancements in aerial refueling capabilities.
Value Assessment
Rating: fair
The contract type is Cost Plus Fixed Fee, which can lead to cost overruns if not managed carefully. The total award amount is $34.4M.
Cost Per Unit: N/A
Competition Analysis
Competition Level: full-and-open
The contract was awarded under full and open competition, suggesting a competitive bidding process. However, the specific price discovery mechanisms and their effectiveness are not detailed.
Taxpayer Impact: Taxpayer funds are supporting advanced defense technology development, with potential long-term benefits if the technology proves successful and cost-effective.
Public Impact
Advancement in autonomous aerial refueling technology. Potential for increased operational flexibility and reduced risk for pilots. Supports innovation in the aerospace and defense sector.
Waste & Efficiency Indicators
Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10
Warning Flags
- Cost Plus Fixed Fee contract type may lead to higher costs.
- Limited information on performance metrics and final outcomes.
Positive Signals
- Supports critical defense R&D.
- Awarded through full and open competition.
Sector Analysis
This contract falls under Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences. Spending in this sector is crucial for technological advancement but can be high-risk due to the inherent uncertainties in R&D.
Small Business Impact
The contract was awarded to Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation, a large business. There is no indication of small business participation in this specific award.
Oversight & Accountability
Oversight is likely managed by the Defense Contract Management Agency (DCMA). The effectiveness of oversight depends on robust contract management and performance monitoring.
Related Government Programs
- Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Biotechnology)
- Department of Defense Contracting
- Defense Contract Management Agency Programs
Risk Flags
- Cost Plus Fixed Fee contract.
- R&D inherent risks.
- Sole awardee may limit future competition.
- Lack of small business involvement.
Tags
research-and-development-in-the-physical, department-of-defense, ca, definitive-contract, 10m-plus
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this federal contract paying for?
Department of Defense awarded $34.4 million to NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION. KQ-X AUTONOMOUS REFUELING DEMONSTRATION
Who is the contractor on this award?
The obligated recipient is NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION.
Which agency awarded this contract?
Awarding agency: Department of Defense (Defense Contract Management Agency).
What is the total obligated amount?
The obligated amount is $34.4 million.
What is the period of performance?
Start: 2010-06-30. End: 2012-09-30.
What is the projected return on investment for this autonomous refueling technology demonstration?
The return on investment for R&D projects like this is often long-term and strategic rather than immediate financial gain. Success could lead to significant operational efficiencies, reduced personnel risk, and enhanced mission capabilities, indirectly justifying the investment through improved defense posture and potential cost savings in future operations.
What are the primary technical risks associated with demonstrating autonomous refueling?
Key technical risks include ensuring the reliability and safety of the autonomous docking and refueling systems under various flight conditions, developing robust sensor and control algorithms for precise maneuvering, and achieving seamless communication between the tanker and receiver aircraft. Environmental factors and potential system failures also pose significant risks.
How will the effectiveness of this demonstration be measured to ensure value for taxpayer money?
Effectiveness will likely be measured against predefined technical milestones and performance objectives outlined in the contract. This includes successful completion of refueling operations in simulated or actual flight, demonstration of system stability and control, and achievement of desired fuel transfer rates. Post-demonstration analysis will assess the technology's maturity and potential for operational deployment.
Industry Classification
NAICS: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services › Scientific Research and Development Services › Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Biotechnology)
Product/Service Code: RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT › DEFENSE (OTHER) R&D
Competition & Pricing
Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION
Solicitation Procedures: BASIC RESEARCH
Offers Received: 123
Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE (U)
Evaluated Preference: NONE
Contractor Details
Parent Company: Northrop Grumman Corporation (UEI: 967356127)
Address: 17066 GOLDENTOP RD, SAN DIEGO, CA, 92127
Business Categories: Category Business, Corporate Entity Not Tax Exempt, Not Designated a Small Business, Special Designations, U.S.-Owned Business
Financial Breakdown
Contract Ceiling: $35,412,943
Exercised Options: $35,412,943
Current Obligation: $34,442,905
Contract Characteristics
Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL ITEM PROCEDURES NOT USED
Cost or Pricing Data: NO
Timeline
Start Date: 2010-06-30
Current End Date: 2012-09-30
Potential End Date: 2012-09-30 00:00:00
Last Modified: 2018-07-02
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