DoD's $22.7M CBRNE Defense Contract Awarded to Battelle Memorial Institute Under Full and Open Competition

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $22,776,465 ($22.8M)

Contractor: Battelle Memorial Institute

Awarding Agency: Department of Defense

Start Date: 2015-09-29

End Date: 2018-09-30

Contract Duration: 1,097 days

Daily Burn Rate: $20.8K/day

Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Number of Offers Received: 1

Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE

Sector: R&D

Official Description: IGF::OT::IGF CBRNE DEFENSE

Place of Performance

Location: COLUMBUS, FRANKLIN County, OHIO, 43201

State: Ohio Government Spending

Plain-Language Summary

Department of Defense obligated $22.8 million to BATTELLE MEMORIAL INSTITUTE for work described as: IGF::OT::IGF CBRNE DEFENSE Key points: 1. Contract awarded to a single entity, Battelle Memorial Institute, for specialized CBRNE defense research. 2. Full and open competition was utilized, suggesting a broad search for qualified contractors. 3. The contract duration of approximately 3 years indicates a medium-term project. 4. The award amount of $22.7M falls within a moderate spending range for R&D contracts in this sector.

Value Assessment

Rating: good

The contract's Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) structure is common for R&D where costs can be uncertain. Benchmarking against similar R&D contracts for CBRNE defense would provide a clearer picture of value, but the fixed fee component offers some cost control.

Cost Per Unit: N/A

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: full-and-open

The use of 'FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION' indicates that all responsible sources were permitted to submit a bid. This method generally promotes competitive pricing and allows the government to select the best value offering.

Taxpayer Impact: The competitive bidding process aims to ensure taxpayer funds are used efficiently for necessary research and development in defense.

Public Impact

Enhances national security through advancements in Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosive (CBRNE) defense. Supports research and development efforts within the physical, engineering, and life sciences. Potential for technological spin-offs that could benefit civilian sectors. Ensures the Department of Defense is equipped to handle emerging threats.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

  • Potential for cost overruns inherent in CPFF contracts.
  • Reliance on a single contractor for critical R&D.

Positive Signals

  • Utilized full and open competition.
  • Awarded to a reputable research institute.
  • Addresses a critical national security need.

Sector Analysis

This contract falls under Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (NAICS 541712). Spending in this sector can vary widely based on project complexity and national priorities, but $22.7M is a significant investment for a single R&D effort.

Small Business Impact

The data indicates this contract was not set aside for small businesses and was awarded to Battelle Memorial Institute, a large research organization. There is no indication of small business participation in this specific award.

Oversight & Accountability

The Department of the Army, under the Department of Defense, is the awarding agency. Standard oversight mechanisms for R&D contracts, including progress reports and financial reviews, would apply to ensure accountability and proper use of funds.

Related Government Programs

  • Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Biotechnology)
  • Department of Defense Contracting
  • Department of the Army Programs

Risk Flags

  • Cost risk associated with CPFF contract type.
  • Potential for scope creep in R&D projects.
  • Dependence on a single contractor for critical research.
  • Need for robust government oversight to ensure progress and cost control.

Tags

research-and-development-in-the-physical, department-of-defense, oh, delivery-order, 10m-plus

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

Department of Defense awarded $22.8 million to BATTELLE MEMORIAL INSTITUTE. IGF::OT::IGF CBRNE DEFENSE

Who is the contractor on this award?

The obligated recipient is BATTELLE MEMORIAL INSTITUTE.

Which agency awarded this contract?

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

What is the total obligated amount?

The obligated amount is $22.8 million.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2015-09-29. End: 2018-09-30.

What specific technological advancements or capabilities are expected from this $22.7M investment in CBRNE defense research?

The contract aims to advance research and development in CBRNE defense, likely focusing on areas such as threat detection, protective equipment, decontamination methods, or response strategies. Specific deliverables would be detailed in the contract's statement of work, but the ultimate goal is to enhance the military's preparedness and resilience against CBRNE threats.

How does the Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) structure mitigate risks associated with R&D projects compared to other contract types?

CPFF contracts allow the government to reimburse the contractor for allowable costs plus a predetermined fixed fee representing profit. This structure is suitable for R&D where the scope and costs are uncertain, providing flexibility. While it shifts some cost risk to the government, the fixed fee incentivizes the contractor to manage costs efficiently to maximize their profit margin.

What is the long-term strategic value of this contract for the Department of Defense's overall CBRNE defense posture?

This contract represents a strategic investment in maintaining and advancing the DoD's capabilities against evolving CBRNE threats. The research conducted is crucial for developing next-generation technologies and strategies, ensuring the force remains protected and capable of operating effectively in hazardous environments, thereby bolstering national security.

Industry Classification

NAICS: Professional, Scientific, and Technical ServicesScientific Research and Development ServicesResearch and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Biotechnology)

Product/Service Code: RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENTOTHER RESEARCH/DEVELOPMENT

Competition & Pricing

Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Solicitation Procedures: SUBJECT TO MULTIPLE AWARD FAIR OPPORTUNITY

Offers Received: 1

Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE (U)

Evaluated Preference: NONE

Contractor Details

Address: 505 KING AVE, COLUMBUS, OH, 43201

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

Financial Breakdown

Contract Ceiling: $47,670,416

Exercised Options: $47,670,416

Current Obligation: $22,776,465

Actual Outlays: $600,993

Subaward Activity

Number of Subawards: 27

Total Subaward Amount: $10,084,903

Contract Characteristics

Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL ITEM PROCEDURES NOT USED

Cost or Pricing Data: NO

Parent Contract

Parent Award PIID: GS00Q14OADU402

IDV Type: IDC

Timeline

Start Date: 2015-09-29

Current End Date: 2018-09-30

Potential End Date: 2018-09-30 00:00:00

Last Modified: 2020-08-28

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