DoD's $35.6M Adaptive Radar Countermeasures Program Faces Limited Competition, Raises Oversight Questions
Contract Overview
Contract Amount: $35,644,311 ($35.6M)
Contractor: Leidos, Inc.
Awarding Agency: Department of Defense
Start Date: 2013-03-08
End Date: 2019-06-30
Contract Duration: 2,305 days
Daily Burn Rate: $15.5K/day
Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION
Number of Offers Received: 17
Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE
Sector: R&D
Official Description: THE GOAL OF THE ADAPTIVE RADAR COUNTERMEASURES (ARC) PROGRAM IS TO DEVELOP THE CAPABILITY TO COUNTER ADAPTIVE RADAR THREATS IN TACTICALLY RELEVANT TIME FRAMES BASED ON OVER-THE-AIR OBSERVABLE SIGNALS. SAIC WILL BE PARTICIPATING IN TECHNICAL AREA 1.
Place of Performance
Location: RESTON, FAIRFAX County, VIRGINIA, 20190
State: Virginia Government Spending
Plain-Language Summary
Department of Defense obligated $35.6 million to LEIDOS, INC. for work described as: THE GOAL OF THE ADAPTIVE RADAR COUNTERMEASURES (ARC) PROGRAM IS TO DEVELOP THE CAPABILITY TO COUNTER ADAPTIVE RADAR THREATS IN TACTICALLY RELEVANT TIME FRAMES BASED ON OVER-THE-AIR OBSERVABLE SIGNALS. SAIC WILL BE PARTICIPATING IN TECHNICAL AREA 1. Key points: 1. The ARC program aims to counter adaptive radar threats using observable signals. 2. SAIC is a participant in Technical Area 1. 3. The contract was awarded via full and open competition. 4. The program has a significant duration of 2305 days. 5. Small business participation is not indicated.
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 substantial, requiring close monitoring of expenditures against the defined scope.
Cost Per Unit: N/A
Competition Analysis
Competition Level: full-and-open
The contract was awarded through full and open competition, suggesting a competitive bidding process. However, the specific number of bidders and the resulting price discovery effectiveness are not detailed, leaving room for potential price inefficiencies.
Taxpayer Impact: Taxpayer funds are being used for advanced defense research. While the goal is national security, the cost-plus contract type necessitates robust oversight to ensure value for money.
Public Impact
Enhances national defense capabilities against evolving radar threats. Supports technological advancement in electronic warfare. Potential for dual-use applications in civilian radar systems. Requires ongoing investment in research and development.
Waste & Efficiency Indicators
Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10
Warning Flags
- Cost Plus Fixed Fee contract type can incentivize contractor to increase costs.
- Long contract duration may lead to scope creep or outdated technology.
- Lack of small business participation noted.
Positive Signals
- Full and open competition utilized.
- Addresses a critical national security need.
- Program aims to counter advanced threats.
Sector Analysis
This contract falls under Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences sector. Spending in this area is crucial for maintaining technological superiority but often involves high risk and long development cycles.
Small Business Impact
The data indicates that small business participation was not a factor in this contract award (ss: false, sb: false). This suggests the prime contractor is a large entity, and opportunities for small businesses may be limited unless subcontracted.
Oversight & Accountability
The contract's long duration and cost-plus nature warrant close oversight from DARPA to ensure adherence to scope, budget, and timely delivery of capabilities. Regular performance reviews and audits are essential.
Related Government Programs
- Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Biotechnology)
- Department of Defense Contracting
- Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency Programs
Risk Flags
- Cost Plus Fixed Fee contract type.
- Long contract duration (2305 days).
- No indication of small business participation.
- Potential for contractor to increase costs.
- Risk of technology becoming outdated during development.
Tags
research-and-development-in-the-physical, department-of-defense, va, definitive-contract, 10m-plus
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this federal contract paying for?
Department of Defense awarded $35.6 million to LEIDOS, INC.. THE GOAL OF THE ADAPTIVE RADAR COUNTERMEASURES (ARC) PROGRAM IS TO DEVELOP THE CAPABILITY TO COUNTER ADAPTIVE RADAR THREATS IN TACTICALLY RELEVANT TIME FRAMES BASED ON OVER-THE-AIR OBSERVABLE SIGNALS. SAIC WILL BE PARTICIPATING IN TECHNICAL AREA 1.
Who is the contractor on this award?
The obligated recipient is LEIDOS, INC..
Which agency awarded this contract?
Awarding agency: Department of Defense (Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency).
What is the total obligated amount?
The obligated amount is $35.6 million.
What is the period of performance?
Start: 2013-03-08. End: 2019-06-30.
What specific metrics are used to evaluate the effectiveness of the Adaptive Radar Countermeasures (ARC) program in countering adaptive radar threats?
The effectiveness of the ARC program is likely evaluated through a combination of simulation, laboratory testing, and field exercises. Key metrics would include the system's ability to detect, identify, and neutralize various adaptive radar signals in real-time, minimizing the adversary's targeting accuracy and operational effectiveness. Performance against specific threat signatures and the speed of response would be critical indicators.
Given the Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) contract type, what mechanisms are in place to mitigate the risk of cost overruns and ensure fair pricing?
Mitigation strategies for CPFF contracts typically involve stringent oversight, detailed cost accounting, and performance-based milestones. The government likely employs technical and administrative teams to monitor contractor expenditures, validate costs, and ensure work aligns with the contract's objectives. Regular audits and reviews of progress against the fixed fee are crucial to prevent uncontrolled cost escalation and ensure value.
How does the ARC program's focus on 'over-the-air observable signals' translate into tangible benefits for national security beyond countering specific radar threats?
Focusing on observable signals allows for the development of more agile and adaptable countermeasures that can be updated rapidly as threats evolve. This approach fosters innovation in signal processing and electronic warfare, potentially leading to breakthroughs applicable to a wider range of electronic threats. The knowledge gained can also inform future system designs, enhancing overall force protection and mission success in contested electromagnetic environments.
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: 17
Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE (U)
Evaluated Preference: NONE
Contractor Details
Parent Company: Leidos Holdings, Inc. (UEI: 611641312)
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: $35,644,311
Exercised Options: $35,644,311
Current Obligation: $35,644,311
Subaward Activity
Number of Subawards: 19
Total Subaward Amount: $3,635,021
Contract Characteristics
Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL ITEM PROCEDURES NOT USED
Cost or Pricing Data: NO
Timeline
Start Date: 2013-03-08
Current End Date: 2019-06-30
Potential End Date: 2019-06-30 00:00:00
Last Modified: 2019-06-21
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