Textron Systems awarded $43.6M for ISR land-based deployment support, with a significant portion allocated to Maryland

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $43,586,510 ($43.6M)

Contractor: Textron Systems Corporation

Awarding Agency: Department of Defense

Start Date: 2018-09-13

End Date: 2021-06-30

Contract Duration: 1,021 days

Daily Burn Rate: $42.7K/day

Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Number of Offers Received: 1

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE

Sector: Defense

Official Description: ISR LAND-BASED DEPLOYMENT SUPPORT SITE 0-12 IGF::OT::IGF

Place of Performance

Location: COCKEYSVILLE, BALTIMORE County, MARYLAND, 21030

State: Maryland Government Spending

Plain-Language Summary

Department of Defense obligated $43.6 million to TEXTRON SYSTEMS CORPORATION for work described as: ISR LAND-BASED DEPLOYMENT SUPPORT SITE 0-12 IGF::OT::IGF Key points: 1. Contract value represents a substantial investment in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities. 2. The firm-fixed-price structure aims to control costs for the government. 3. A single award indicates a focused relationship with the contractor for this specific service. 4. The duration of the contract suggests a long-term need for these support services. 5. The contract falls within the Surveying and Mapping services NAICS code, implying a focus on geospatial data and analysis. 6. The geographic focus on Maryland may indicate proximity to key operational or training facilities.

Value Assessment

Rating: good

The contract value of $43.6 million over approximately 34 months appears reasonable for specialized ISR deployment support. Benchmarking against similar contracts is challenging without more specific service details, but the firm-fixed-price nature suggests an effort to establish a predictable cost. The contract's value relative to its duration and the specialized nature of ISR support indicates a potentially good value for the services rendered, assuming successful delivery.

Cost Per Unit: N/A

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: full-and-open

This contract was awarded under full and open competition, suggesting that multiple vendors had the opportunity to bid. The fact that it resulted in a single award indicates that Textron Systems Corporation was selected as the most advantageous offer. The level of competition, while not specified in terms of the number of bidders, implies a market capable of supporting such services and that the government sought the best value proposition.

Taxpayer Impact: Full and open competition generally benefits taxpayers by fostering a competitive environment that can lead to more favorable pricing and innovative solutions, ensuring the government receives the best possible value for its investment.

Public Impact

The Department of the Navy benefits from enhanced ISR capabilities for its operations. Services delivered likely include technical support, deployment assistance, and potentially data analysis related to ISR systems. The primary geographic impact is in Maryland, suggesting support for naval bases or operations within that state. The contract supports specialized technical roles within the defense sector, potentially impacting a skilled workforce.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

Potential for vendor lock-in due to single award and long duration.
Dependence on a single contractor for critical ISR support functions.
Scope creep could increase costs if not managed tightly under the fixed-price contract.

Positive Signals

Firm-fixed-price contract provides cost certainty for the government.
Full and open competition suggests a robust market and potential for competitive pricing.
Long contract duration indicates a sustained need and potential for contractor expertise development.

Sector Analysis

The defense sector, particularly within intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), is a significant area of federal spending. This contract fits within the broader market for defense support services, which includes specialized technical assistance, system deployment, and operational support. The NAICS code 541370 (Surveying and Mapping Services) suggests a focus on geospatial intelligence or related data services, a critical component of modern ISR operations. Spending in this area is driven by evolving geopolitical landscapes and the need for advanced situational awareness.

Small Business Impact

The data indicates this contract was not set aside for small businesses (ss: false, sb: false). As a sole award to a large corporation, Textron Systems, there are no direct subcontracting implications for small businesses explicitly stated in this data. However, large prime contractors often engage small businesses for specialized support or components, though the extent of this contract's impact on the small business ecosystem is not detailed here.

Oversight & Accountability

Oversight for this contract would typically fall under the Department of the Navy's contracting and program management offices. Accountability measures are inherent in the firm-fixed-price contract type, which incentivizes the contractor to meet defined deliverables within budget. Transparency is generally maintained through contract award databases and reporting requirements, though specific operational details of ISR support may be sensitive. Inspector General jurisdiction would apply in cases of fraud, waste, or abuse.

Related Government Programs

Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) Systems
Defense Support Services
Geospatial Intelligence Services
Naval Operations Support
Surveying and Mapping Services

Risk Flags

Potential for contractor performance issues impacting ISR readiness.
Risk of cost escalation if contract scope is not tightly managed.
Dependence on a single vendor for critical support functions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

Department of Defense awarded $43.6 million to TEXTRON SYSTEMS CORPORATION. ISR LAND-BASED DEPLOYMENT SUPPORT SITE 0-12 IGF::OT::IGF

Who is the contractor on this award?

The obligated recipient is TEXTRON SYSTEMS CORPORATION.

Which agency awarded this contract?

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

What is the total obligated amount?

The obligated amount is $43.6 million.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2018-09-13. End: 2021-06-30.

What is Textron Systems Corporation's track record with the Department of Defense, particularly in ISR-related contracts?

Textron Systems Corporation has a significant history of contracting with the Department of Defense across various platforms and services. They are known for their work in areas such as unmanned systems, precision weapons, and armored vehicles. Within ISR, they have provided components and support for intelligence gathering systems. Their track record generally indicates a capacity to deliver complex defense solutions. However, a detailed review of past performance on similar ISR deployment support contracts, including any past issues or commendations, would be necessary for a comprehensive assessment. This specific contract's performance history, including any modifications or disputes, would also be relevant.

How does the value of this contract compare to similar ISR land-based deployment support contracts awarded by the Navy or other branches?

Benchmarking this $43.6 million contract requires identifying comparable contracts based on service scope, duration, and complexity. Contracts for ISR system deployment and support can vary widely. If this contract involves extensive on-site technical assistance, integration, and long-term field support across multiple locations, its value might be considered within a reasonable range for a multi-year effort. However, if the scope is more limited, such as basic installation or maintenance, the value might appear higher. Without specific details on the deliverables and the number of personnel or systems supported, a precise comparison is difficult. Generally, firm-fixed-price contracts aim for cost efficiency, but the specialized nature of ISR can command premium pricing.

What are the primary risks associated with this contract, given its focus on ISR deployment and a single award to Textron Systems?

Key risks include potential over-reliance on a single contractor (Textron Systems) for critical ISR deployment support, which could lead to reduced leverage if performance issues arise or if future needs change significantly. There's also the risk of scope creep, where the requirements might expand beyond the initial agreement, potentially leading to cost overruns if not managed meticulously under the firm-fixed-price structure. Technical risks associated with deploying and supporting advanced ISR systems are inherent, as is the potential for schedule delays impacting operational readiness. Furthermore, if the competition was limited in practice despite being 'full and open,' there's a risk that the government did not secure the most competitive pricing or innovative solutions available in the market.

How effective is the firm-fixed-price (FFP) contract type in ensuring value for money for this specific ISR support service?

The firm-fixed-price (FFP) contract type is generally considered effective in controlling costs for the government, as it shifts the risk of cost overruns to the contractor (Textron Systems). This structure incentivizes the contractor to manage their expenses efficiently to maintain profitability. For ISR deployment support, where requirements can be clearly defined, FFP can provide cost certainty. However, its effectiveness hinges on the accuracy and completeness of the initial scope definition. If unforeseen technical challenges or environmental factors arise that were not adequately anticipated, the contractor might face significant losses, potentially impacting their motivation or leading to disputes. Conversely, if the scope is well-defined and the contractor is efficient, FFP can deliver excellent value.

What is the historical spending trend for Surveying and Mapping (except Geophysical) Services (NAICS 541370) by the Department of the Navy?

Historical spending data for NAICS code 541370 by the Department of the Navy reveals a consistent, albeit fluctuating, investment in surveying and mapping services. This category encompasses a range of activities, from traditional land surveying to more advanced geospatial data acquisition and analysis, which are crucial for naval operations, infrastructure planning, and environmental assessments. While specific annual totals vary based on operational tempo, infrastructure projects, and technological advancements, the Navy consistently utilizes these services. The $43.6 million awarded to Textron Systems for ISR deployment support, falling under this NAICS code, represents a significant single award within this category, suggesting a focused need for specialized geospatial intelligence capabilities supporting surveillance and reconnaissance missions.

Industry Classification

NAICS: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services › Architectural, Engineering, and Related Services › Surveying and Mapping (except Geophysical) Services

Product/Service Code: TECHNICAL REPRESENTATIVE SVCS. › TECHNICAL REPRESENTATIVE SERVICES

Competition & Pricing

Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Solicitation Procedures: SUBJECT TO MULTIPLE AWARD FAIR OPPORTUNITY

Solicitation ID: N0001916R0063

Offers Received: 1

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE (J)

Evaluated Preference: NONE

Contractor Details

Parent Company: Textron Inc (UEI: 001338979)

Address: 124 INDUSTRY LN, HUNT VALLEY, MD, 21030

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: $43,703,118

Exercised Options: $43,586,510

Current Obligation: $43,586,510

Actual Outlays: $3,306,086

Contract Characteristics

Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL ITEM PROCEDURES NOT USED

Cost or Pricing Data: NO

Parent Contract

Parent Award PIID: N0001917D0096

IDV Type: IDC

Timeline