Penn State Awarded $25.6M DoD Contract for HARLEQUIN 5G Research
Contract Overview
Contract Amount: $25,588,560 ($25.6M)
Contractor: THE Pennsylvania State University
Awarding Agency: Department of Defense
Start Date: 2020-09-08
End Date: 2024-09-30
Contract Duration: 1,483 days
Daily Burn Rate: $17.3K/day
Competition Type: NOT COMPETED
Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE
Sector: R&D
Official Description: HARLEQUIN 5G
Place of Performance
Location: UNIVERSITY PARK, CENTRE County, PENNSYLVANIA, 16802
Plain-Language Summary
Department of Defense obligated $25.6 million to THE PENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIVERSITY for work described as: HARLEQUIN 5G Key points: 1. Significant investment in advanced 5G research by the Department of the Navy. 2. Limited competition suggests potential for higher costs and reduced innovation. 3. Focus on R&D in physical sciences, with potential dual-use applications. 4. Contract duration extends over four years, indicating a long-term project.
Value Assessment
Rating: fair
The contract is Cost Plus Fixed Fee, which can lead to cost overruns if not managed carefully. Benchmarking is difficult without more specific details on deliverables and comparable research projects.
Cost Per Unit: N/A
Competition Analysis
Competition Level: limited
The contract was 'NOT COMPETED,' indicating a sole-source or limited competition award. This method can reduce price discovery and potentially lead to less favorable pricing for the government.
Taxpayer Impact: The lack of full and open competition may result in taxpayers paying more than necessary for this research.
Public Impact
Advancement in 5G technology could have significant national security implications. Research funding for academic institutions like Penn State supports scientific innovation. Potential for spin-off technologies benefiting the commercial sector.
Waste & Efficiency Indicators
Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10
Warning Flags
- Lack of competition
- Cost Plus Fixed Fee structure
- Long contract duration
Positive Signals
- Supports critical R&D
- Awarded to reputable institution
Sector Analysis
This contract falls under Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences. Spending in this sector is crucial for technological advancement but requires careful oversight to ensure value for money.
Small Business Impact
There is no indication that small businesses were involved in this contract, either as prime contractors or subcontractors. This represents a missed opportunity for small business participation.
Oversight & Accountability
The 'NOT COMPETED' status warrants scrutiny to ensure the justification for limited competition was sound and that the government received fair value. Ongoing oversight is needed for Cost Plus Fixed Fee contracts.
Related Government Programs
- Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology)
- Department of Defense Contracting
- Department of the Navy Programs
Risk Flags
- Lack of competitive bidding
- Potential for cost overruns
- Unclear research deliverables
- No small business participation
Tags
research-and-development-in-the-physical, department-of-defense, pa, delivery-order, 10m-plus
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this federal contract paying for?
Department of Defense awarded $25.6 million to THE PENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIVERSITY. HARLEQUIN 5G
Who is the contractor on this award?
The obligated recipient is THE PENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIVERSITY.
Which agency awarded this contract?
Awarding agency: Department of Defense (Department of the Navy).
What is the total obligated amount?
The obligated amount is $25.6 million.
What is the period of performance?
Start: 2020-09-08. End: 2024-09-30.
What specific research outcomes are expected from the HARLEQUIN 5G project, and how will their value be measured?
The expected outcomes are not detailed in the provided data. Measuring the value of R&D is inherently challenging, but should involve clear milestones, peer review, and assessment of potential technological advancements or applications. The government should have a robust plan to track progress and assess the return on investment for taxpayer funds.
What is the justification for awarding this contract on a limited competition basis, and were alternative approaches considered?
The justification for limited competition is not provided. Typically, this is reserved for situations where only one source can meet the requirement, or in cases of urgent need. Without this justification, it's difficult to assess if the government adequately explored options to maximize competition and achieve better pricing and innovation.
How will the Cost Plus Fixed Fee structure be managed to prevent cost overruns and ensure efficient use of funds?
Managing a Cost Plus Fixed Fee contract requires rigorous oversight of incurred costs and contractor performance. The Department of the Navy must implement strict auditing procedures, regular progress reviews, and clear communication channels to monitor expenditures and ensure the fixed fee remains appropriate relative to the work performed and risks assumed.
Industry Classification
NAICS: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services › Scientific Research and Development Services › Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology)
Product/Service Code: RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT › DEFENSE (OTHER) R&D
Competition & Pricing
Extent Competed: NOT COMPETED
Solicitation Procedures: ONLY ONE SOURCE
Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE (U)
Evaluated Preference: NONE
Contractor Details
Address: 201 OLD MAIN, UNIVERSITY PARK, PA, 16802
Business Categories: Category Business, Corporate Entity Tax Exempt, Educational Institution, Higher Education, Nonprofit Organization, Not Designated a Small Business, Higher Education (Public), Special Designations, U.S.-Owned Business
Financial Breakdown
Contract Ceiling: $29,857,495
Exercised Options: $29,857,495
Current Obligation: $25,588,560
Actual Outlays: $4,127,065
Contract Characteristics
Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES PROCEDURES NOT USED
Cost or Pricing Data: NO
Parent Contract
Parent Award PIID: N0002418D6401
IDV Type: IDC
Timeline
Start Date: 2020-09-08
Current End Date: 2024-09-30
Potential End Date: 2024-09-30 00:00:00
Last Modified: 2025-02-26
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