DoD's $10.6M laser dazzler contract awarded to B.E. Meyers & Co. for optical instruments

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $10,610,100 ($10.6M)

Contractor: B.E. Meyers & CO., Inc.

Awarding Agency: Department of Defense

Start Date: 2006-11-01

End Date: 2008-03-10

Contract Duration: 495 days

Daily Burn Rate: $21.4K/day

Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Number of Offers Received: 1

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE

Sector: Defense

Official Description: GBDIIIC LASER DAZZLER

Place of Performance

Location: REDMOND, KING County, WASHINGTON, 98052

State: Washington Government Spending

Plain-Language Summary

Department of Defense obligated $10.6 million to B.E. MEYERS & CO., INC. for work described as: GBDIIIC LASER DAZZLER Key points: 1. Contract value of $10.6 million represents a significant investment in specialized defense technology. 2. Awarded under full and open competition, suggesting a robust market for this type of equipment. 3. Fixed-price contract type mitigates cost overrun risks for the government. 4. Performance period of 495 days indicates a focused, short-term delivery requirement. 5. The contract falls within the optical instrument and lens manufacturing sector, a niche but critical area for defense. 6. Small business participation was not a stated requirement, potentially limiting opportunities for smaller firms.

Value Assessment

Rating: good

The contract value of $10.6 million for laser dazzler systems appears reasonable given the specialized nature of the technology. Benchmarking against similar advanced optical defense systems is challenging due to proprietary information and unique specifications. However, the firm-fixed-price structure suggests that the contractor assumed the risk for cost overruns, which is generally favorable for the government. The award was made after a competitive process, which typically leads to better pricing than sole-source procurements.

Cost Per Unit: N/A

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: full-and-open

This contract was awarded under full and open competition, indicating that the Department of the Navy sought proposals from all responsible sources. The specific number of bidders is not provided, but the designation implies that multiple companies had the opportunity to compete. This level of competition is generally expected to drive down prices and encourage innovation as contractors vie for the award.

Taxpayer Impact: Full and open competition maximizes the potential for obtaining the best value for taxpayer dollars by ensuring a wide range of offers and fostering a competitive pricing environment.

Public Impact

The primary beneficiaries are the U.S. Navy personnel who will be equipped with advanced laser dazzler systems for enhanced operational capabilities. The contract delivers specialized optical instruments designed for non-lethal deterrence and signaling. The geographic impact is primarily within military operational theaters where these systems are deployed. Workforce implications include specialized manufacturing and technical support roles within B.E. Meyers & Co. and its supply chain.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

Lack of specific details on the number of bidders limits a full assessment of competitive intensity.
The specialized nature of the technology may restrict the pool of potential competitors.
No explicit mention of small business subcontracting goals could mean limited direct benefit to the small business sector.

Positive Signals

Awarded through full and open competition, maximizing potential for best value.
Firm-fixed-price contract type provides cost certainty for the government.
The contract addresses a critical defense capability, enhancing operational effectiveness.

Sector Analysis

The optical instrument and lens manufacturing sector is a specialized segment of the broader manufacturing industry, crucial for defense applications. This contract for laser dazzler systems falls under advanced optics, which often involves high research and development costs and stringent performance requirements. The market size for such niche defense technologies is driven by government procurement cycles and evolving threat landscapes. Comparable spending benchmarks are difficult to establish without detailed technical specifications, but defense spending on electro-optical systems is substantial.

Small Business Impact

This contract does not appear to have been set aside for small businesses, nor is there information indicating specific subcontracting goals for small businesses. While B.E. Meyers & Co. may engage small businesses in its supply chain, the primary award mechanism did not prioritize small business participation. This suggests that larger, established firms were likely the primary competitors and recipients of the prime contract, potentially limiting direct opportunities for smaller enterprises in this specific procurement.

Oversight & Accountability

Oversight for this contract would typically be managed by the Department of the Navy's contracting officers and program managers. Accountability measures are embedded in the firm-fixed-price contract terms, requiring delivery of specified goods within the agreed budget. Transparency is generally maintained through contract award databases, though specific performance metrics and detailed technical data may be restricted. The Inspector General's office for the Department of Defense could investigate any allegations of fraud, waste, or abuse related to this contract.

Related Government Programs

Department of Defense Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) Systems
Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC) Procurement
Non-Lethal Weapons Systems
Military Optics and Photonics

Risk Flags

Potential for quality compromises under fixed-price contract if not adequately overseen.
Limited visibility into the number of competitors may obscure the true level of market competition.
Lack of explicit small business subcontracting requirements could limit broader economic impact.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

Department of Defense awarded $10.6 million to B.E. MEYERS & CO., INC.. GBDIIIC LASER DAZZLER

Who is the contractor on this award?

The obligated recipient is B.E. MEYERS & CO., INC..

Which agency awarded this contract?

Awarding agency: Department of Defense (Department of the Navy).

What is the total obligated amount?

The obligated amount is $10.6 million.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2006-11-01. End: 2008-03-10.

What is the specific operational purpose and technical capability of the GBDIIIC LASER DAZZLER?

The GBDIIIC LASER DAZZLER, manufactured by B.E. Meyers & Co., Inc., is a directed energy system designed for non-lethal deterrence and signaling. Its primary function is to temporarily disorient or 'dazzle' individuals or sensors without causing permanent harm. This capability is crucial for force protection, border security, and crowd control scenarios, allowing military and law enforcement personnel to de-escalate situations or gain a tactical advantage. The system likely employs specific wavelengths and power outputs to achieve its intended effect, distinguishing it from standard laser pointers or weapon systems. Its development and procurement are driven by the need for advanced, non-lethal tools in complex operational environments.

How does the $10.6 million contract value compare to similar defense contracts for specialized optical systems?

Comparing the $10.6 million contract value for the GBDIIIC LASER DAZZLER to similar defense contracts requires careful consideration of system complexity, quantity, and technological sophistication. Contracts for advanced electro-optical systems, such as targeting pods, infrared sensors, or specialized laser devices, can range widely. A $10.6 million award for a relatively niche, albeit critical, system like a laser dazzler appears within a reasonable range, especially if it involves advanced technology, significant research and development, or a specific set of performance requirements. However, without knowing the exact number of units procured or the specific technical specifications, a precise benchmark is difficult. Contracts for more broadly applicable or higher-volume systems might exceed this value significantly, while simpler optical components could be procured for less.

What are the potential risks associated with a firm-fixed-price contract for advanced technology like laser dazzlers?

While firm-fixed-price (FFP) contracts are generally favored by the government for cost control, they can introduce risks, particularly with advanced technology. For the contractor, the primary risk is underestimating the costs of development, manufacturing, or integration, potentially leading to reduced profit margins or even losses if unforeseen technical challenges arise. For the government, the risk is that the contractor, in an effort to maximize profit under an FFP, might cut corners on quality control, testing, or documentation, potentially impacting system reliability or performance. Furthermore, if the technology proves more complex or less mature than initially assessed, the contractor might struggle to meet specifications, leading to delays or disputes. Robust technical oversight and clear performance metrics are crucial to mitigate these risks.

What is the track record of B.E. Meyers & Co., Inc. in delivering defense contracts, particularly for optical or laser systems?

B.E. Meyers & Co., Inc. has a well-established track record in the defense industry, particularly known for its expertise in optical and laser technologies. The company has a history of developing and producing advanced systems, including the 'Glaser' line of non-lethal laser dazzlers, which this contract likely pertains to. Their experience often includes supplying systems to various branches of the U.S. military and allied nations. Analyzing their past performance on similar contracts would involve reviewing contract databases for on-time delivery, adherence to specifications, and any history of disputes or contract modifications. Generally, their reputation suggests a capacity to deliver complex optical solutions, but a detailed review of specific contract performance data would provide a more definitive assessment.

How does the $10.6M award fit into the broader context of Department of Defense spending on non-lethal weapons and optical systems?

The $10.6 million award for the GBDIIIC LASER DAZZLER represents a specific investment within the larger DoD budget allocated to non-lethal weapons and advanced optical systems. The DoD consistently invests billions annually in research, development, and procurement of technologies aimed at enhancing situational awareness, force protection, and mission effectiveness across various domains. Non-lethal systems, including directed energy devices like laser dazzlers, are a growing area of focus as the military seeks versatile tools for diverse operational scenarios, from peacekeeping to complex combat environments. Spending on optical systems, encompassing everything from night vision goggles to sophisticated targeting and surveillance equipment, forms a substantial portion of defense procurement. This particular contract, while significant for the specific capability it addresses, is a component of this broader strategic spending.

Industry Classification

NAICS: Manufacturing › Commercial and Service Industry Machinery Manufacturing › Optical Instrument and Lens Manufacturing

Product/Service Code: COMM/DETECT/COHERENT RADIATION

Competition & Pricing

Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Solicitation Procedures: ONLY ONE SOURCE

Offers Received: 1

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE (J)

Evaluated Preference: NONE

Contractor Details

Address: 9461 WILLOWS RD NE, REDMOND, WA, 98052

Business Categories: Category Business, Small Business

Financial Breakdown

Contract Ceiling: $10,610,100

Exercised Options: $10,610,100

Current Obligation: $10,610,100

Contract Characteristics

Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL ITEM PROCEDURES NOT USED

Parent Contract

Parent Award PIID: GS07F9132D

IDV Type: FSS

Timeline