Northrop Grumman awarded $30.8M for electromagnetic array development, aiming to accelerate deployment and upgrades
Contract Overview
Contract Amount: $30,831,508 ($30.8M)
Contractor: Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation
Awarding Agency: Department of Defense
Start Date: 2013-12-18
End Date: 2018-12-31
Contract Duration: 1,839 days
Daily Burn Rate: $16.8K/day
Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION
Number of Offers Received: 22
Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE
Sector: R&D
Official Description: ACT AIMS TO DRAMATICALLY SHORTEN THE TIMESCALES ASSOCIATED WITH ELECTROMAGNETIC ARRAY DEVELOPMENT, DEPLOYMENT AND UPGRADE. SPECIFICALLY, TECHNICAL AREA 1 (TA1) OF THE PROGRAM (THE SCOPE OF THIS CONTRACT) WILL DEPART FROM TRADITIONAL HIGHLY-SPECIALIZED AND TIME-CONSUMING ARRAY DESIGN METHODOLOGIES AND FOCUS ON REALIZATION OF A COMMON HARDWARE MODULE THAT CAN BE BROADLY APPLIED TO MANY DISPARATE ARRAY FUNCTIONS.
Place of Performance
Location: LINTHICUM HEIGHTS, ANNE ARUNDEL County, MARYLAND, 21090
State: Maryland Government Spending
Plain-Language Summary
Department of Defense obligated $30.8 million to NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION for work described as: ACT AIMS TO DRAMATICALLY SHORTEN THE TIMESCALES ASSOCIATED WITH ELECTROMAGNETIC ARRAY DEVELOPMENT, DEPLOYMENT AND UPGRADE. SPECIFICALLY, TECHNICAL AREA 1 (TA1) OF THE PROGRAM (THE SCOPE OF THIS CONTRACT) WILL DEPART FROM TRADITIONAL HIGHLY-SPECIALIZED AND TIME-CONSUMING ARRAY DES… Key points: 1. Focus on a common hardware module to reduce specialized design times. 2. Contract aims to shorten development, deployment, and upgrade cycles for electromagnetic arrays. 3. Research and Development in Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Biotechnology) sector. 4. Contract type is Cost Plus Fixed Fee, indicating potential for cost overruns. 5. Long duration of 1839 days suggests a complex, multi-phase project. 6. Awarded by DARPA, known for high-risk, high-reward research initiatives.
Value Assessment
Rating: fair
The contract value of $30.8 million for a 5-year R&D effort in advanced electromagnetic arrays appears within a reasonable range for a project of this complexity and scope, especially given DARPA's mission. However, without specific benchmarks for similar common module development in this niche field, a precise value-for-money assessment is challenging. The Cost Plus Fixed Fee structure carries inherent risks of cost escalation, which warrants close monitoring.
Cost Per Unit: N/A
Competition Analysis
Competition Level: full-and-open
The contract was awarded under full and open competition, suggesting that multiple bidders had the opportunity to submit proposals. This competitive process is generally expected to yield better pricing and innovative solutions. The presence of 22 proposals indicates a healthy level of interest and competition for this DARPA initiative.
Taxpayer Impact: A full and open competition is favorable for taxpayers as it increases the likelihood of obtaining the best value and encourages cost-consciousness among bidders.
Public Impact
Advances in electromagnetic array technology could benefit national security and scientific research. Development of a common hardware module could lead to more adaptable and cost-effective array systems. Potential for workforce development in specialized engineering and R&D fields. Geographic impact is likely concentrated in areas with advanced research facilities, such as Maryland.
Waste & Efficiency Indicators
Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10
Warning Flags
- Cost Plus Fixed Fee contracts can lead to higher final costs than fixed-price contracts if not managed carefully.
- The long contract duration (1839 days) increases the risk of scope creep or technological obsolescence.
- Reliance on a single contractor for a critical R&D phase could limit future innovation if not properly overseen.
Positive Signals
- Full and open competition suggests a robust selection process and potential for innovation.
- DARPA's involvement indicates a focus on cutting-edge technology with potentially high impact.
- The development of a common module aims for efficiency and broader applicability, a positive sign for future scalability.
Sector Analysis
This contract falls within the Research and Development sector, specifically focusing on advanced physical and engineering sciences related to electromagnetic arrays. This is a highly specialized area critical for defense, communications, and scientific sensing. The market for such advanced technologies is often dominated by a few key players with deep expertise, and DARPA contracts are typically aimed at pushing the boundaries of what is currently possible.
Small Business Impact
While this contract is a large award to a major defense contractor, the nature of advanced R&D often involves complex supply chains. There may be opportunities for small businesses to participate as subcontractors, particularly in specialized component manufacturing or testing services. However, the primary awardee is a large corporation, and direct set-aside for small businesses is unlikely for this type of foundational research.
Oversight & Accountability
Oversight for this contract would primarily fall under the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). DARPA employs rigorous program management and technical oversight to ensure research objectives are met. The Cost Plus Fixed Fee structure necessitates detailed financial reporting and auditing to manage costs effectively. Transparency is generally maintained through program reviews and public disclosures of research outcomes, though specific technical details may remain classified.
Related Government Programs
- Advanced Radar Systems
- Electronic Warfare Systems
- Signal Processing Technologies
- Next-Generation Sensor Development
Risk Flags
- Cost Plus Fixed Fee contract type
- Long contract duration (over 5 years)
- Focus on novel, unproven technology development
Tags
research-and-development, department-of-defense, darpa, northrop-grumman-systems-corporation, definitive-contract, cost-plus-fixed-fee, full-and-open-competition, maryland, electromagnetic-arrays, technology-development, national-security
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this federal contract paying for?
Department of Defense awarded $30.8 million to NORTHROP GRUMMAN SYSTEMS CORPORATION. ACT AIMS TO DRAMATICALLY SHORTEN THE TIMESCALES ASSOCIATED WITH ELECTROMAGNETIC ARRAY DEVELOPMENT, DEPLOYMENT AND UPGRADE. SPECIFICALLY, TECHNICAL AREA 1 (TA1) OF THE PROGRAM (THE SCOPE OF THIS CONTRACT) WILL DEPART FROM TRADITIONAL HIGHLY-SPECIALIZED AND TIME-CONSUMING ARRAY DESIGN METHODOLOGIES AND FOCUS ON REALIZATION OF A COMMON HARDWARE MODULE THAT CAN BE BROADLY APPLIED TO MANY DISPARATE ARRAY FUNCTIONS.
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 Advanced Research Projects Agency).
What is the total obligated amount?
The obligated amount is $30.8 million.
What is the period of performance?
Start: 2013-12-18. End: 2018-12-31.
What is the specific technological innovation sought by DARPA in this contract?
DARPA seeks to revolutionize electromagnetic array development by moving away from highly specialized, time-consuming design methodologies. The core innovation lies in realizing a 'common hardware module' that can be broadly applied across various array functions. This aims to significantly shorten the timescales for array development, deployment, and upgrades, making systems more adaptable, potentially more cost-effective, and faster to field. Technical Area 1 (TA1) of the ACT program, which this contract supports, is dedicated to this modular approach.
How does the Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) contract type impact the value for taxpayers?
A Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) contract reimburses the contractor for allowable costs plus a fixed fee representing profit. While it allows for flexibility in R&D projects where costs are uncertain, it carries a higher risk of cost overruns for taxpayers compared to fixed-price contracts. The 'fixed fee' provides some incentive for the contractor to control costs, but the primary risk lies in the potential for allowable costs to exceed initial estimates. Robust oversight and detailed cost tracking are crucial to mitigate this risk and ensure taxpayer funds are used efficiently.
What is Northrop Grumman's track record in electromagnetic systems and DARPA projects?
Northrop Grumman is a major defense contractor with extensive experience in developing advanced electronic systems, including radar, electronic warfare, and communication technologies, which often involve complex electromagnetic arrays. They have a long history of working with DARPA on cutting-edge research and development programs. Their established expertise in these domains suggests a strong capability to undertake the ambitious goals outlined in this contract, though specific performance metrics on past DARPA projects would require deeper investigation.
How does the 'common hardware module' concept compare to previous approaches in array development?
Historically, electromagnetic arrays have often been designed with highly specialized components tailored to specific functions, leading to lengthy development cycles and high costs for each new system or upgrade. The 'common hardware module' approach represents a paradigm shift towards standardization and modularity. By developing a core set of interchangeable hardware components, DARPA aims to enable faster integration, easier upgrades, and broader applicability across different array types (e.g., for sensing, communication, or electronic warfare). This contrasts with bespoke, application-specific designs.
What are the potential risks associated with a 5-year R&D contract for a novel technology?
A five-year R&D contract for a novel technology like a common electromagnetic array module carries several risks. Technological obsolescence is a significant concern; the pace of innovation could render the developed module outdated before the project concludes or is widely adopted. There's also the risk of 'scope creep,' where project objectives expand beyond the original intent, leading to increased costs and delays. Furthermore, the success of the 'common module' concept hinges on its adaptability and performance across diverse applications, which may prove more challenging than initially anticipated. Finally, the long duration increases the potential for personnel turnover and loss of institutional knowledge.
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: 22
Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE (U)
Evaluated Preference: NONE
Contractor Details
Parent Company: Northrop Grumman Corporation
Address: 1580A W NURSERY RD, LINTHICUM HEIGHTS, MD, 21090
Business Categories: Category Business, Corporate Entity Not Tax Exempt, Manufacturer of Goods, Not Designated a Small Business, Special Designations, U.S.-Owned Business
Financial Breakdown
Contract Ceiling: $31,756,174
Exercised Options: $30,831,508
Current Obligation: $30,831,508
Subaward Activity
Number of Subawards: 503
Total Subaward Amount: $447,242,792
Contract Characteristics
Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL ITEM PROCEDURES NOT USED
Cost or Pricing Data: YES
Timeline
Start Date: 2013-12-18
Current End Date: 2018-12-31
Potential End Date: 2018-12-31 00:00:00
Last Modified: 2025-04-21
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