Boeing's Commercial Crew Program contract valued at $1.78 billion to transport NASA astronauts to the ISS
Contract Overview
Contract Amount: $178,137,283 ($178.1M)
Contractor: THE Boeing Company
Awarding Agency: National Aeronautics and Space Administration
Start Date: 2016-12-30
End Date: 2028-03-31
Contract Duration: 4,109 days
Daily Burn Rate: $43.4K/day
Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION
Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE
Sector: R&D
Official Description: IGF::OT::IGF THE COMMERCIAL CREW PROGRAM (CCP) COMMERCIAL CREW TRANSPORTATION CAPABILITY (CCTCAP) CONTRACT WILL PROVIDE COMPLETION OF THE DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT, TEST, EVALUATION, AND CERTIFICATION OF AN INTEGRATED CREW TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM (CTS) CAPABLE OF TRANSPORTING NASA CREW TO AND FROM THE ISS, IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE DESIGN REFERENCE MISSIONS AND NASA'S CERTIFICATION STANDARDS AND REQUIREMENTS. CERTIFICATION OF THE CTS WILL BE DETERMINED BY NASA. NASA PLANS TO ISSUE TASK ORDERS FOR POST CERTIFICATION MISSIONS (PCM) TO AND FROM ISS THAT INCLUDE GROUND, LAUNCH, LIFEBOAT, ON-ORBIT, RETURN AND RECOVERY OPERATIONS. THE MINIMUM QUANTITY OF MISSIONS TO BE ORDERED IS TWO (2) AND THE MAXIMUM POTENTIAL QUANTITY OF MISSIONS WHICH MAY BE ORDERED IS SIX (6). IN ADDITION, NASA MAY ISSUE TASK ORDERS FOR SPECIAL STUDIES USED FOR RISK REDUCTION AND OTHER PURPOSES RELATED TO THE CTS. NASA CERTIFICATION UNDER CLIN 001 IS COMPLETE WHEN THE CONTRACTOR'S CREW TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM (CTS) HAS MET NASAS REQUIREMENTS FOR SAFELY TRANSPORTING CREW TO AND FROM THE INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION (ISS) IN ACCORDANCE WITH DOCUMENTS IDENTIFIED IN SECTION C.1, SPECIFICATIONS/STATEMENT OF WORK. SUBCLINS 001A AND 001B, IDENTIFIED IN TABLE B.3, DDTE/CERTIFICATION SUBCLINS, ARE DELIVERY MILESTONES THAT REPRESENT COMPLETION OF REQUIRED WORK NECESSARY TO ACHIEVE NASA CERTIFICATION. DELIVERY PAYMENT FOR THE ISS DESIGN CERTIFICATION REVIEW (DCR) FOR THE CREWED FLIGHT TO THE ISS INCLUDES ALL WORK UNDER THIS CLIN THAT OCCURS FROM THE CONTRACT EFFECTIVE DATE THROUGH THE ISS DCR COMPLETION. THE DELIVERY PAYMENT FOR THE CERTIFICATION REVIEW (CR) WILL INCLUDE ALL WORK THAT OCCURS FROM THE ISS DCR DELIVERY DATE THROUGH THE END OF THE DDTE/CERTIFICATION CLIN 001. IN ACCORDANCE WITH CLAUSE C.1, SPECIFICATION/STATEMENT OF WORK, THE TASK ORDERING PROCEDURES AND OTHER TERMS AND CONDITIONS IN THE CONTRACT, THE CONTRACTING OFFICER MAY ISSUE POST CERTIFICATION MISSION (PCM) TASK ORDERS. THE CONTRACTOR SHALL USE THE MISSION PRICING RATES SHOWN IN TABLE B.4.1, POST CERTIFICATION MISSION PRICES. THE PER MISSION PRICES ARE FOR A SINGLE ORDER AT THE PRICE STATED PER THE CALENDAR YEAR (CY) BASED ON THE NUMBER OF MISSIONS ORDERED. CTS FULL MISSION CAPABILITY PRICES SHALL BE BASED ON (1) FULFILLMENT OF THE DESIGN REFERENCE MISSION TO THE ISS FOUND IN CCT-DRM-1110, CREW TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM DESIGN REFERENCE MISSIONS, ATTACHMENT J-03, CONTRACT PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT, AND OTHER TERMS AND CONDITIONS IN THE CONTRACT AND (2) ALL INHERENT CTS CAPABILITIES THAT ARE WITHIN THE PROPOSED MISSION PRICES. IN ACCORDANCE WITH ATTACHMENT J-03, CONTRACT PERFORMANCE WORK STATEMENT, THE TASK ORDERING PROCEDURES AND OTHER TERMS AND CONDITIONS IN THE CONTRACT, THE CONTRACTOR SHALL PERFORM SPECIAL STUDIES, TEST AND ANALYSES, AS INITIATED BY WRITTEN DIRECTION FROM THE CONTRACTING OFFICER. BOEING CCTCAP POST CERTIFICATION MISSION 3-6 (PCM-3-6) TASK ORDER AGAINST NNK14MA75C CLIN 002, AS DESCRIBED IN CLAUSE B.4 POST CERTIFICATION MISSIONS (IDIQ)(CLIN 002) AND ALL OTHER APPLICABLE TERMS AND CONDITIONS.
Place of Performance
Location: ORLANDO, BREVARD County, FLORIDA, 32899
State: Florida Government Spending
Plain-Language Summary
National Aeronautics and Space Administration obligated $178.1 million to THE BOEING COMPANY for work described as: IGF::OT::IGF THE COMMERCIAL CREW PROGRAM (CCP) COMMERCIAL CREW TRANSPORTATION CAPABILITY (CCTCAP) CONTRACT WILL PROVIDE COMPLETION OF THE DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT, TEST, EVALUATION, AND CERTIFICATION OF AN INTEGRATED CREW TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM (CTS) CAPABLE OF TRANSPORTING NASA CRE… Key points: 1. Contract aims to ensure safe and reliable crew transportation to the International Space Station. 2. Focus on design, development, testing, and certification of an integrated crew transportation system. 3. Potential for up to six post-certification missions, indicating significant future operational scope. 4. Contract type is Firm Fixed Price, shifting cost risk to the contractor. 5. Competition was full and open, suggesting a robust market for these services. 6. Performance period extends through March 2028, covering a substantial development and operational timeline.
Value Assessment
Rating: good
The contract's value of $1.78 billion for developing and certifying a crew transportation system is substantial, reflecting the complexity and criticality of human spaceflight. Benchmarking against similar large-scale aerospace development programs is challenging due to the unique nature of commercial crew transportation. However, the firm fixed-price structure suggests an expectation of cost control by NASA, with the contractor bearing cost overruns. The value appears aligned with the significant R&D and operational capabilities required.
Cost Per Unit: N/A
Competition Analysis
Competition Level: full-and-open
The contract was awarded under full and open competition, indicating that multiple capable vendors were likely considered. This approach is expected to foster competitive pricing and innovation. The specific number of bidders is not detailed, but the open competition suggests a healthy market for commercial crew transportation services, which is beneficial for NASA in securing the best value.
Taxpayer Impact: Full and open competition generally leads to better pricing for taxpayers by encouraging multiple companies to bid, driving down costs through market forces.
Public Impact
Benefits NASA by providing a reliable and cost-effective means for crewed missions to the ISS. Ensures continued U.S. access to space for astronaut transport, reducing reliance on international partners. Supports the development of advanced aerospace technologies and manufacturing capabilities. Creates and sustains high-skilled jobs in the aerospace sector, particularly in Florida. Enables scientific research and operational activities aboard the ISS through consistent crew rotation.
Waste & Efficiency Indicators
Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10
Warning Flags
- Potential for cost overruns if development or certification proves more complex than anticipated, despite the fixed-price nature.
- Schedule delays in development or certification could impact ISS mission timelines.
- Reliance on a single contractor for critical crew transport capabilities poses a systemic risk.
- Ensuring long-term viability and safety standards of the transportation system requires continuous oversight.
Positive Signals
- Firm fixed-price contract structure incentivizes contractor efficiency and cost control.
- Full and open competition suggests a robust market and potential for innovation.
- Clear performance standards and certification requirements provide a defined path for success.
- Long contract duration allows for development, certification, and initial operational missions.
Sector Analysis
The Commercial Crew Program (CCP) operates within the highly specialized aerospace manufacturing sector, specifically focusing on guided missile and space vehicle manufacturing. This sector is characterized by high barriers to entry, significant R&D investment, and stringent safety and regulatory requirements. The market size for human spaceflight transportation is limited to government agencies and potentially future private space tourism ventures. This contract represents a significant investment in maintaining U.S. capability in this critical domain, comparable to other major government aerospace procurements.
Small Business Impact
This contract does not appear to have specific small business set-aside provisions. However, large aerospace prime contractors like Boeing typically engage a wide network of subcontractors, which can include small businesses. The extent of small business participation will depend on Boeing's subcontracting strategy and the availability of specialized small businesses capable of contributing to the complex requirements of crew transportation systems.
Oversight & Accountability
NASA's oversight for the Commercial Crew Program is expected to be rigorous, involving continuous monitoring of design, development, testing, and certification processes. The agency will likely employ a multi-tiered approach, including regular reviews, audits, and on-site inspections. Accountability is built into the firm fixed-price contract and the stringent certification requirements. Transparency will be managed through program reporting and public communications, though detailed technical data may remain proprietary.
Related Government Programs
- Commercial Crew Program (CCP)
- Commercial Crew Transportation Capability (CCTCAP)
- International Space Station (ISS) Logistics and Operations
- Space Launch System (SLS)
- Orion Spacecraft Program
Risk Flags
- Schedule Risk
- Technical Performance Risk
- Cost Overrun Potential
- Safety Critical System Reliability
Tags
aerospace, nasa, commercial-crew, space-transportation, firm-fixed-price, full-and-open-competition, florida, iss, human-spaceflight, research-and-development
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this federal contract paying for?
National Aeronautics and Space Administration awarded $178.1 million to THE BOEING COMPANY. IGF::OT::IGF THE COMMERCIAL CREW PROGRAM (CCP) COMMERCIAL CREW TRANSPORTATION CAPABILITY (CCTCAP) CONTRACT WILL PROVIDE COMPLETION OF THE DESIGN, DEVELOPMENT, TEST, EVALUATION, AND CERTIFICATION OF AN INTEGRATED CREW TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM (CTS) CAPABLE OF TRANSPORTING NASA CREW TO AND FROM THE ISS, IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE DESIGN REFERENCE MISSIONS AND NASA'S CERTIFICATION STANDARDS AND REQUIREMENTS. CERTIFICATION OF THE CTS WILL BE DETERMINED BY NASA. NASA PLANS TO ISSUE TASK ORDERS FOR POST
Who is the contractor on this award?
The obligated recipient is THE BOEING COMPANY.
Which agency awarded this contract?
Awarding agency: National Aeronautics and Space Administration (National Aeronautics and Space Administration).
What is the total obligated amount?
The obligated amount is $178.1 million.
What is the period of performance?
Start: 2016-12-30. End: 2028-03-31.
What is the historical performance of The Boeing Company on large-scale NASA contracts?
The Boeing Company has a long and extensive history of working with NASA on major space programs, including the International Space Station (ISS) and the Space Shuttle program. Their experience spans decades and encompasses a wide range of complex engineering, manufacturing, and operational challenges. While Boeing has a strong track record, like any large contractor, they have also faced challenges and scrutiny on certain projects. For the Commercial Crew Program specifically, Boeing's Starliner spacecraft has undergone significant testing and development, including uncrewed and crewed test flights. These missions have encountered some technical issues, leading to delays and requiring additional analysis and corrective actions. NASA's oversight and Boeing's response to these issues are critical factors in assessing the program's current trajectory and future success.
How does the cost per mission compare to previous crew transportation methods?
Directly comparing the cost per mission under the Commercial Crew Transportation Capability (CCTCAP) contract to previous methods requires careful consideration of what is included. Historically, NASA relied heavily on the Russian Soyuz spacecraft for crew transport to the ISS after the Space Shuttle retired. The cost per seat on Soyuz missions varied but was often reported to be in the tens of millions of dollars. The CCTCAP contract, valued at $1.78 billion for a minimum of two and a potential of six missions, aims to provide a more cost-effective and domestically sourced solution. While the total contract value is high, it covers not just the flight itself but also the extensive design, development, testing, and certification of a new transportation system. Once operational and amortized over multiple missions, the per-mission cost is expected to be competitive with, and potentially lower than, the Soyuz costs, while also fostering a commercial U.S. capability.
What are the primary technical risks associated with the crew transportation system?
The primary technical risks associated with the crew transportation system (CTS) are multifaceted, given the inherent dangers of human spaceflight. Key risks include the reliability and safety of the launch vehicle and spacecraft systems, particularly the propulsion, life support, and guidance, navigation, and control (GNC) systems. The environmental control and life support system (ECLSS) must function flawlessly to maintain a habitable atmosphere for astronauts. Furthermore, the thermal protection system (TPS) is critical for safe re-entry through Earth's atmosphere. The docking and undocking mechanisms for the ISS present another area of risk, requiring precise alignment and secure connections. Finally, the parachute and landing systems for crew return are paramount for a safe conclusion to each mission. NASA's certification process is designed to identify and mitigate these risks through rigorous testing and analysis.
What is the projected effectiveness of this contract in meeting NASA's long-term ISS access needs?
This contract is projected to be highly effective in meeting NASA's long-term needs for crew access to the International Space Station (ISS). By fostering a commercial capability, NASA aims to ensure regular, reliable, and potentially more affordable transportation for its astronauts. The contract's structure, allowing for a minimum of two and up to six post-certification missions, provides flexibility to scale operations based on ISS requirements and budget allocations. This commercial approach reduces NASA's direct burden of operating and maintaining a crewed launch system, allowing the agency to focus on its core mission of space exploration and scientific research. The development of a certified U.S. commercial crew system is crucial for maintaining continuous U.S. presence on the ISS and supporting future space exploration endeavors.
How has spending on commercial crew transportation evolved over the past five years?
Spending on commercial crew transportation has evolved significantly over the past five years, transitioning from initial development and demonstration phases towards operational capabilities. Early years saw substantial investment in research, design, and prototype testing by multiple commercial partners, including Boeing and SpaceX, under NASA's Commercial Crew Program. As these systems matured, spending shifted towards final development, certification flights (both uncrewed and crewed test missions), and the initial operational flights. The total federal spending in this area has been substantial, reflecting the high cost and complexity of developing human-rated spaceflight systems. While specific annual figures fluctuate based on program milestones and funding appropriations, the trend has been towards increasing expenditure as programs move closer to routine operations, with the goal of achieving cost efficiencies compared to previous government-owned systems.
Industry Classification
NAICS: Manufacturing › Aerospace Product and Parts Manufacturing › Guided Missile and Space Vehicle Manufacturing
Product/Service Code: TRANSPORT, TRAVEL, RELOCATION › TRANSPORTATION OF THINGS
Competition & Pricing
Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION
Solicitation Procedures: NEGOTIATED PROPOSAL/QUOTE
Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE (J)
Evaluated Preference: NONE
Contractor Details
Address: 3700 BAY AREA BLVD, HOUSTON, TX, 77058
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: $722,435,778
Exercised Options: $722,435,778
Current Obligation: $178,137,283
Subaward Activity
Number of Subawards: 133
Total Subaward Amount: $231,323,618
Contract Characteristics
Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES PROCEDURES NOT USED
Cost or Pricing Data: NO
Parent Contract
Parent Award PIID: NNK14MA75C
IDV Type: IDC
Timeline
Start Date: 2016-12-30
Current End Date: 2028-03-31
Potential End Date: 2028-03-31 00:00:00
Last Modified: 2025-11-24
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