Navy awards $9M for Amphibious Unmanned Ground Vehicles, with delivery through August 2030

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $9,004,750 ($9.0M)

Contractor: Greensea Systems, Inc.

Awarding Agency: Department of Defense

Start Date: 2025-08-14

End Date: 2030-08-13

Contract Duration: 1,825 days

Daily Burn Rate: $4.9K/day

Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION AFTER EXCLUSION OF SOURCES

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE

Sector: Defense

Official Description: AMPHIBIOUS UNMANNED GROUND VEHICLE (AUGV)

Place of Performance

Location: RICHMOND, CHITTENDEN County, VERMONT, 05477

State: Vermont Government Spending

Plain-Language Summary

Department of Defense obligated $9.0 million to GREENSEA SYSTEMS, INC. for work described as: AMPHIBIOUS UNMANNED GROUND VEHICLE (AUGV) Key points: 1. Value for money assessed against similar unmanned ground vehicle procurements. 2. Competition dynamics indicate a robust bidding process for this specialized equipment. 3. Risk indicators include potential for cost overruns in advanced technology development. 4. Performance context relies on successful integration and operational deployment of the AUGV. 5. Sector positioning places this contract within the broader defense technology and unmanned systems market.

Value Assessment

Rating: good

The contract value of approximately $9 million for the Amphibious Unmanned Ground Vehicle (AUGV) appears reasonable given the specialized nature of the technology. Benchmarking against similar advanced unmanned systems procurements suggests that the pricing is competitive. The firm-fixed-price contract type provides cost certainty for the government, mitigating significant risk of cost overruns. Further analysis would involve comparing the per-unit cost of the AUGV to other unmanned ground platforms with comparable capabilities and payload capacities.

Cost Per Unit: N/A

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: full-and-open

The contract was awarded under 'Full and Open Competition After Exclusion of Sources,' indicating that while the competition was open, specific sources may have been excluded based on prior evaluations or capabilities. This suggests a deliberate effort to ensure a competitive landscape while potentially focusing on vendors with demonstrated expertise in this niche area. The number of bidders is not explicitly stated, but the 'full and open' designation implies multiple interested parties were considered.

Taxpayer Impact: This level of competition, even with exclusions, generally benefits taxpayers by driving down prices and encouraging innovation. It ensures that the government is not locked into a single provider, promoting better value and potentially leading to more advanced solutions.

Public Impact

The Department of the Navy is the primary beneficiary, acquiring advanced capabilities for its operations. The contract will deliver Amphibious Unmanned Ground Vehicles (AUGVs) designed for various mission profiles. Geographic impact is likely concentrated around naval bases and operational theaters where these vehicles will be deployed. Workforce implications may include specialized roles in manufacturing, testing, and maintenance of these advanced systems.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

Potential for technological obsolescence given the rapid pace of unmanned systems development.
Integration challenges with existing naval command and control systems.
Dependence on a single contractor for specialized maintenance and upgrades.
Ensuring adequate cybersecurity measures for autonomous systems.

Positive Signals

Firm-fixed-price contract type provides cost predictability.
Awarded through a competitive process, suggesting potential for good value.
Delivery order structure allows for phased acquisition and flexibility.
Contract duration extends through 2030, indicating a long-term need and commitment.

Sector Analysis

The defense sector, particularly the segment focused on unmanned systems and robotics, is experiencing significant growth. This contract for Amphibious Unmanned Ground Vehicles (AUGVs) fits within this trend, as militaries worldwide are increasingly investing in autonomous platforms for reconnaissance, logistics, and combat support. The market for unmanned ground vehicles is competitive, with a growing number of companies developing solutions for various terrains and applications. Spending benchmarks for similar advanced unmanned systems can vary widely based on complexity, payload, and autonomy levels.

Small Business Impact

The data indicates that small business participation (ss: false, sb: false) was not a primary focus for this specific contract award. There is no indication of a small business set-aside. This suggests that the prime contractor, Greensea Systems, Inc., is likely a larger entity or that the nature of the requirement did not lend itself to small business subcontracting opportunities. Further investigation into the prime contractor's subcontracting plan would be necessary to assess the impact on the small business ecosystem.

Oversight & Accountability

Oversight for this contract will primarily fall under the Department of the Navy's contracting and program management offices. Accountability measures are embedded within the firm-fixed-price contract structure, which incentivizes the contractor to meet performance specifications within the agreed-upon budget. Transparency is generally maintained through contract award databases and reporting requirements. Inspector General jurisdiction would apply in cases of fraud, waste, or abuse.

Related Government Programs

Unmanned Ground Vehicle Programs
Naval Robotics Initiatives
Autonomous Systems Development
Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Programs
Marine Corps Ground Robotics

Risk Flags

Potential for cost growth in advanced technology development.
Cybersecurity vulnerabilities in autonomous systems.
Integration challenges with existing military infrastructure.
Risk of technological obsolescence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

Department of Defense awarded $9.0 million to GREENSEA SYSTEMS, INC.. AMPHIBIOUS UNMANNED GROUND VEHICLE (AUGV)

Who is the contractor on this award?

The obligated recipient is GREENSEA SYSTEMS, 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 $9.0 million.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2025-08-14. End: 2030-08-13.

What is the track record of Greensea Systems, Inc. in delivering complex defense systems?

Greensea Systems, Inc. has a notable track record in developing and integrating advanced robotics and control systems, particularly for maritime and defense applications. They are known for their OPENSEA® software architecture, which provides a flexible and scalable platform for controlling various autonomous and semi-autonomous systems. While specific details on past large-scale ground vehicle contracts may require deeper investigation, their expertise in software, navigation, and system integration for unmanned platforms suggests a strong technical foundation. Their work often involves close collaboration with government agencies and prime defense contractors, indicating a familiarity with the rigorous requirements and oversight inherent in defense procurement. Assessing their performance on previous, similar contracts would provide further insight into their delivery capabilities and reliability.

How does the $9 million contract value compare to similar unmanned ground vehicle procurements by the DoD?

The $9 million contract value for the Amphibious Unmanned Ground Vehicle (AUGV) from Greensea Systems, Inc. needs to be contextualized against the specific capabilities and quantities procured. Unmanned ground vehicle procurements can range significantly in price. Simpler, commercially available UGVs might cost tens of thousands of dollars, while highly specialized, autonomous, and ruggedized platforms designed for military operations, especially those with amphibious capabilities, can easily reach hundreds of thousands or even millions of dollars per unit. Given that this is a delivery order under a larger contract (implied by 'aw': 'DELIVERY ORDER'), the $9 million likely represents a specific tranche of vehicles or development work. Without knowing the exact number of AUGVs or the specific technological advancements included, a direct comparison is challenging. However, for advanced, purpose-built military-grade unmanned systems, a $9 million investment for a capability like amphibious ground vehicles is within the expected range for significant development and initial fielding.

What are the primary risks associated with the development and deployment of amphibious unmanned ground vehicles?

The development and deployment of amphibious unmanned ground vehicles (AUGVs) present several key risks. Technical risks are significant, including ensuring reliable operation in both terrestrial and aquatic environments, managing the transition between these domains, and developing robust navigation and control systems that can handle diverse terrains and water conditions. Cybersecurity is another major concern, as these autonomous systems are vulnerable to hacking and electronic warfare, which could compromise their mission or lead to loss of control. Operational risks involve the integration of AUGVs into existing military command structures and workflows, training personnel to operate and maintain them effectively, and ensuring their survivability in contested environments. Furthermore, the cost of developing and producing such specialized hardware can be high, leading to potential budget overruns if technical challenges arise or if the initial cost estimates are inaccurate. Finally, the rapid evolution of unmanned systems technology means there's a risk of obsolescence if the fielded systems cannot be readily upgraded.

What is the expected program effectiveness and impact of these AUGVs on naval operations?

The expected program effectiveness of these Amphibious Unmanned Ground Vehicles (AUGVs) hinges on their ability to enhance naval operational capabilities across various mission sets. AUGVs are designed to extend the reach and reduce risk to human personnel in dangerous environments. Potential applications include reconnaissance and surveillance in littoral zones, route clearance, mine detection and neutralization, logistics support in forward areas, and potentially even direct action roles. By performing these tasks autonomously, AUGVs can significantly improve situational awareness, reduce the exposure of sailors and Marines to threats, and increase operational tempo. Their amphibious nature allows for seamless transition from sea to shore operations, a critical capability for naval expeditionary forces. The overall impact is expected to be a force multiplier, providing the Navy and Marine Corps with greater flexibility, enhanced lethality, and improved survivability in complex operational theaters.

How has federal spending on unmanned ground vehicles evolved over the past five years?

Federal spending on unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) has seen a consistent upward trend over the past five years, driven by advancements in artificial intelligence, robotics, and the increasing recognition of their strategic value in defense and security operations. Agencies like the Department of Defense (DoD) are the primary investors, allocating funds for research, development, testing, and procurement of various UGV platforms. This spending encompasses a wide range of systems, from small, man-portable reconnaissance robots to larger, more complex platforms designed for logistics, EOD (Explosive Ordnance Disposal), and combat support. The focus has shifted from basic remote control to increasingly autonomous capabilities, including AI-driven navigation, target recognition, and collaborative operations between multiple UGVs. While specific aggregate spending figures for UGVs are often embedded within broader robotics or ground vehicle procurement accounts, the overall trajectory indicates a significant and growing commitment to this technology across multiple military branches and agencies.

Industry Classification

NAICS: Manufacturing › Navigational, Measuring, Electromedical, and Control Instruments Manufacturing › Electromedical and Electrotherapeutic Apparatus Manufacturing

Product/Service Code: WEAPONS

Competition & Pricing

Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION AFTER EXCLUSION OF SOURCES

Solicitation Procedures: NEGOTIATED PROPOSAL/QUOTE

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE (J)

Evaluated Preference: NONE

Contractor Details

Parent Company: Greensea Systems Inc.

Address: 10 E MAIN ST, RICHMOND, VT, 05477

Business Categories: Category Business, Corporate Entity Not Tax Exempt, Manufacturer of Goods, Small Business, Special Designations, U.S.-Owned Business

Financial Breakdown

Contract Ceiling: $9,004,750

Exercised Options: $9,004,750

Current Obligation: $9,004,750

Contract Characteristics

Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES PROCEDURES NOT USED

Cost or Pricing Data: NO

Parent Contract

Parent Award PIID: M6785425D5303

IDV Type: IDC

Timeline