DoD's $128.8M Flight School Simulation Services Contract Awarded to General Dynamics IT

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $128,770,293 ($128.8M)

Contractor: General Dynamics Information Technology, Inc.

Awarding Agency: Department of Defense

Start Date: 2021-04-01

End Date: 2022-03-31

Contract Duration: 364 days

Daily Burn Rate: $353.8K/day

Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE

Sector: Defense

Official Description: TASK ORDER ISSUANCE TO SUPPORT LOT YEAR XIX OF FLIGHT SCHOOL XXI SIMULATION SERVICES.

Place of Performance

Location: CHANTILLY, FAIRFAX County, VIRGINIA, 20151

State: Virginia Government Spending

Plain-Language Summary

Department of Defense obligated $128.8 million to GENERAL DYNAMICS INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY, INC. for work described as: TASK ORDER ISSUANCE TO SUPPORT LOT YEAR XIX OF FLIGHT SCHOOL XXI SIMULATION SERVICES. Key points: 1. Value for money assessed through firm-fixed-price contract type, aiming for cost predictability. 2. Competition dynamics indicate a full and open approach, potentially driving competitive pricing. 3. Risk indicators include contract duration and the nature of simulation services, requiring robust performance monitoring. 4. Performance context is tied to supporting flight training, a critical military function. 5. Sector positioning within Defense IT services, a mature and competitive market.

Value Assessment

Rating: good

The contract's firm-fixed-price structure suggests an effort to control costs for simulation services. Benchmarking against similar flight simulation contracts is challenging without specific service details, but the overall value appears reasonable given the duration and the provider's established presence. The award amount of approximately $128.8 million over one year indicates a significant investment in training infrastructure.

Cost Per Unit: N/A

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: full-and-open

The contract was awarded under full and open competition, suggesting that multiple vendors had the opportunity to bid. This method typically fosters a competitive environment, which can lead to better pricing and service offerings for the government. The specific number of bidders is not provided, but the chosen procurement strategy is generally favorable for price discovery.

Taxpayer Impact: A full and open competition allows taxpayers to benefit from potentially lower prices due to vendor competition, ensuring that government funds are used efficiently.

Public Impact

Benefits military aviators by providing essential flight simulation training. Delivers critical simulation services to support pilot readiness and skill development. Geographic impact is likely concentrated around training bases where the simulation systems are deployed. Workforce implications include the need for skilled technicians and instructors to operate and maintain the simulation systems.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

Potential for cost overruns if scope creep occurs despite firm-fixed-price.
Dependence on a single contractor for critical training simulation services.
Risk of technological obsolescence in simulation hardware/software over time.

Positive Signals

Firm-fixed-price contract type provides cost certainty.
Award to an established contractor with a track record in defense IT.
Full and open competition suggests a robust selection process.

Sector Analysis

This contract falls within the Defense IT services sector, specifically focusing on simulation and training solutions. The market for defense simulation and training is substantial, driven by the need for realistic and cost-effective pilot training. General Dynamics Information Technology is a major player in this space, competing with other large defense contractors.

Small Business Impact

The data indicates this contract was not set aside for small businesses and the primary awardee is a large corporation. There is no explicit information on subcontracting plans for small businesses. The impact on the small business ecosystem is likely minimal unless specific subcontracting opportunities are mandated or pursued by the prime contractor.

Oversight & Accountability

Oversight is typically managed through the Department of the Army contracting and program management offices. Accountability measures would include performance metrics, delivery schedules, and quality standards outlined in the contract. Transparency is facilitated by contract award databases, though detailed performance data may be limited.

Related Government Programs

DoD Flight Training Programs
Military Simulation and Training Systems
Defense IT Services Contracts
Army Aviation Training

Risk Flags

Potential for cost growth if not managed tightly.
Risk of technological obsolescence.
Dependence on contractor performance for critical training.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

Department of Defense awarded $128.8 million to GENERAL DYNAMICS INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY, INC.. TASK ORDER ISSUANCE TO SUPPORT LOT YEAR XIX OF FLIGHT SCHOOL XXI SIMULATION SERVICES.

Who is the contractor on this award?

The obligated recipient is GENERAL DYNAMICS INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY, INC..

Which agency awarded this contract?

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

What is the total obligated amount?

The obligated amount is $128.8 million.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2021-04-01. End: 2022-03-31.

What is General Dynamics Information Technology's track record with similar simulation and training contracts for the Department of Defense?

General Dynamics Information Technology (GDIT), now part of General Dynamics, has a long history of providing IT and simulation services to the Department of Defense. They have been involved in numerous large-scale contracts for training systems, including flight simulators, virtual training environments, and maintenance support. Their experience spans various branches of the military, and they are known for managing complex technological programs. While specific details on past performance for this exact simulation type require deeper analysis of contract histories, GDIT's overall profile suggests a capable provider for sophisticated simulation requirements. Their involvement in supporting flight schools indicates a sustained capability in this niche.

How does the value of this contract compare to other flight simulation services procured by the DoD?

The contract value of approximately $128.8 million for a one-year period is substantial, reflecting the complexity and scale of modern flight simulation services. Comparing this directly to other contracts is difficult without knowing the specific types of aircraft simulated, the fidelity of the simulators (e.g., full flight simulators vs. part-task trainers), and the scope of support (e.g., hardware, software, maintenance, instructor services). However, for a comprehensive simulation and training solution supporting a major flight school, this value appears to be within the expected range for large defense contracts. The DoD invests heavily in simulation to reduce flight hours, enhance safety, and improve training effectiveness, making such contract values common for critical training infrastructure.

What are the primary risks associated with this contract, and how are they being mitigated?

Key risks include potential cost overruns if the firm-fixed-price contract doesn't fully account for unforeseen technical challenges or scope changes, although the FFP structure aims to mitigate this. Performance risk is significant, as the effectiveness of pilot training directly depends on the reliability and fidelity of the simulation systems. Technological obsolescence is another risk, as simulation technology evolves rapidly. Mitigation strategies likely involve robust contract management by the Army, including performance monitoring, quality assurance checks, and potentially phased technology refresh clauses. GDIT's experience and established processes are also intended to mitigate performance and technical risks.

How effective are simulation services like these in improving pilot training outcomes compared to traditional flight hours?

Simulation services are highly effective and increasingly crucial for modern pilot training. They offer significant advantages over relying solely on actual flight hours. Simulations allow for the safe practice of high-risk maneuvers, emergency procedures, and complex scenarios that are impractical or too dangerous to replicate in real aircraft. They also provide a controlled environment for consistent training delivery and detailed performance feedback. Furthermore, simulations can be more cost-effective and environmentally friendly than extensive flight hours, reducing fuel consumption and wear on aircraft. Studies consistently show that well-designed simulation programs, when integrated with flight training, lead to improved pilot proficiency, better decision-making skills, and enhanced overall mission readiness.

What is the historical spending trend for flight simulation services within the Department of the Army?

Historical spending on flight simulation services by the Department of the Army has generally trended upwards over the past two decades, driven by technological advancements and a recognized need for cost-effective, safe, and repeatable training solutions. As simulation technology has become more sophisticated and capable, the Army has increasingly relied on these systems to supplement or, in some cases, replace traditional flight training. This shift is motivated by the desire to reduce operational costs (fuel, maintenance), enhance safety by practicing dangerous scenarios, and provide standardized training experiences. Major defense contractors like General Dynamics have consistently secured significant portions of this spending, indicating a stable and ongoing market for these services.

Industry Classification

NAICS: Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services › Other Support Services › All Other Support Services

Product/Service Code: MAINT, REPAIR, REBUILD EQUIPMENT › MAINT, REPAIR, REBUILD OF EQUIPMENT

Competition & Pricing

Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Solicitation Procedures: NEGOTIATED PROPOSAL/QUOTE

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE (J)

Evaluated Preference: NONE

Contractor Details

Parent Company: General Dynamics Corp

Address: 3150 FAIRVIEW PARK DR STE 100, FALLS CHURCH, VA, 22042

Business Categories: Category Business, Corporate Entity Not Tax Exempt, Not Designated a Small Business, Special Designations, U.S.-Owned Business

Financial Breakdown

Contract Ceiling: $128,770,293

Exercised Options: $128,770,293

Current Obligation: $128,770,293

Actual Outlays: $1,021,198

Contract Characteristics

Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES PROCEDURES NOT USED

Cost or Pricing Data: YES

Parent Contract

Parent Award PIID: N6133903D0014

IDV Type: IDC

Timeline