DoD's $11M R&D contract for RIID Systems Acquisition Support Service awarded to SYMETRICA INC

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $11,062,639 ($11.1M)

Contractor: Symetrica Inc

Awarding Agency: Department of Defense

Start Date: 2021-03-29

End Date: 2026-11-27

Contract Duration: 2,069 days

Daily Burn Rate: $5.3K/day

Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Number of Offers Received: 4

Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE

Sector: R&D

Official Description: RIID SYSTEMS ACQUISITION SUPPORT SERVICE

Place of Performance

Location: WOBURN, MIDDLESEX County, MASSACHUSETTS, 01801

State: Massachusetts Government Spending

Plain-Language Summary

Department of Defense obligated $11.1 million to SYMETRICA INC for work described as: RIID SYSTEMS ACQUISITION SUPPORT SERVICE Key points: 1. Contract awarded through full and open competition, suggesting a competitive bidding process. 2. The contract type is Cost Plus Fixed Fee, which can incentivize cost control but requires careful oversight. 3. The duration of the contract is over 2000 days, indicating a long-term need for these services. 4. The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code 541715 points to research and development in physical, engineering, and life sciences. 5. The contract is a delivery order under a larger award, suggesting it's part of a broader acquisition strategy. 6. The contractor, SYMETRICA INC, is based in Massachusetts, a state with a significant defense and technology sector.

Value Assessment

Rating: fair

Benchmarking the value of this specific $11 million contract is challenging without more detailed cost breakdowns and performance metrics. The Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) structure means the government pays the contractor's allowable costs plus a fixed fee, which can lead to cost overruns if not managed tightly. Comparing it to similar R&D support services requires access to proprietary pricing data and specific scope of work details. However, the duration and the nature of R&D suggest a potentially complex and resource-intensive undertaking.

Cost Per Unit: N/A

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: full-and-open

This contract was awarded under full and open competition, indicating that all responsible sources were permitted to submit a bid. The presence of 4 bids suggests a reasonable level of interest from the market. This competitive approach is generally expected to yield better pricing and value for the government compared to sole-source or limited competition scenarios.

Taxpayer Impact: Full and open competition helps ensure that taxpayer dollars are used efficiently by driving down prices through market forces.

Public Impact

The primary beneficiaries are likely the Department of the Army and potentially other Department of Defense entities requiring advanced RIID systems. The services delivered are critical for the acquisition and development of RIID (Radiation Isotope Identification) systems, which are vital for national security and non-proliferation efforts. The geographic impact is primarily within the defense sector, with potential implications for research institutions and technology developers nationwide. Workforce implications may include specialized engineers, scientists, and acquisition professionals involved in the R&D and procurement process.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

Cost Plus Fixed Fee contracts require robust oversight to prevent cost overruns and ensure the fixed fee remains appropriate.
The long duration of the contract (over 2000 days) necessitates sustained monitoring of performance and contractor viability.
The specific nature of R&D can introduce inherent uncertainties and risks that may impact project timelines and outcomes.

Positive Signals

Awarded through full and open competition, indicating a competitive market for these services.
The contract is a delivery order under a larger award, suggesting a structured and potentially well-managed acquisition process.
The contractor has secured a contract with a major federal agency (Department of Defense), implying a level of established capability.

Sector Analysis

This contract falls within the Research and Development sector, specifically focusing on physical and engineering sciences. The market for defense-related R&D is substantial, driven by the need for technological superiority and national security. Comparable spending benchmarks would typically be found within broader DoD R&D budgets, particularly those allocated to advanced sensor technology and acquisition support services. The NAICS code 541715 indicates a focus on scientific research and experimental development, excluding specific areas like nanotechnology and biotechnology.

Small Business Impact

There is no indication that this contract was specifically set aside for small businesses, and the 'ss' field is false. The contractor, SYMETRICA INC, is not explicitly identified as a small business in the provided data. Therefore, the direct impact on small business set-asides appears minimal. However, the potential for subcontracting opportunities with small businesses exists, depending on the contractor's strategy and the nature of the R&D support required.

Oversight & Accountability

Oversight for this contract would primarily fall under the Department of the Army's contracting and program management offices. Accountability measures are inherent in the Cost Plus Fixed Fee structure, requiring detailed reporting of costs and progress. Transparency is facilitated through contract award databases, though specific performance details and cost breakdowns may be sensitive. Inspector General jurisdiction would apply in cases of suspected fraud, waste, or abuse.

Related Government Programs

DoD Research and Development Programs
Defense Acquisition Support Services
Radiation Detection and Identification Systems
Advanced Sensor Technology Development
Department of the Army Procurement

Risk Flags

Long contract duration may lead to technology obsolescence or performance degradation.
Cost Plus Fixed Fee structure requires diligent cost oversight to prevent overruns.
R&D inherently carries risks of technical challenges and schedule delays.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

Department of Defense awarded $11.1 million to SYMETRICA INC. RIID SYSTEMS ACQUISITION SUPPORT SERVICE

Who is the contractor on this award?

The obligated recipient is SYMETRICA 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 $11.1 million.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2021-03-29. End: 2026-11-27.

What is the specific nature of the RIID Systems Acquisition Support Service being provided?

The provided data indicates the contract is for 'RIID SYSTEMS ACQUISITION SUPPORT SERVICE' under NAICS code 541715 (Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences). RIID systems typically refer to Radiation Isotope Identification devices, which are crucial for detecting and identifying radioactive materials. The 'Acquisition Support Service' likely encompasses a range of activities related to the procurement, development, testing, and integration of these systems for the Department of the Army. This could include technical expertise, market research, requirements definition, source selection support, and program management assistance to ensure the successful acquisition of effective RIID technology.

How does the Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) contract type influence cost control and risk for this R&D project?

The Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) contract type means the government reimburses the contractor for all allowable costs incurred, plus a predetermined fixed fee representing profit. For R&D projects, which are inherently uncertain, CPFF can be advantageous as it allows flexibility to adapt to unforeseen technical challenges without constant contract renegotiation. However, it places a significant burden on the government to meticulously monitor and audit the contractor's costs to ensure they are reasonable and allocable. The fixed fee provides the contractor with an incentive to control costs, as any savings beyond the allowable costs do not increase their profit. Conversely, if costs escalate significantly, the government bears the brunt, while the contractor's fee remains constant, potentially reducing their effective profit margin. Robust oversight is critical to mitigate the risk of cost overruns and ensure fair value.

What does the competition level (4 bidders) suggest about the market for RIID acquisition support services?

Having four bidders for this contract suggests a moderately competitive market for RIID acquisition support services. While not an extremely high number, it indicates that multiple companies possess the capabilities and interest to pursue this type of government contract. This level of competition is generally sufficient to provide the government with a reasonable range of options and pricing. It implies that the barriers to entry for qualified firms are not insurmountable, and that SYMETRICA INC faced genuine competition. The specific pricing and technical proposals submitted by the bidders would offer further insight into the intensity of this competition and its impact on the final award.

What are the potential risks associated with the long contract duration (2069 days)?

The long duration of 2069 days (approximately 5.6 years) for this R&D acquisition support contract presents several potential risks. Firstly, there's the risk of technological obsolescence; R&D in areas like RIID systems can advance rapidly, and the technology being supported might be outdated by the contract's end. Secondly, contractor performance can degrade over extended periods if not actively managed, leading to complacency or a decline in quality. Thirdly, changes in government priorities, funding, or leadership within the Department of the Army could necessitate contract modifications or even termination, causing disruption. Finally, maintaining consistent oversight and engagement from the government side over such a long period can be challenging due to personnel turnover and shifting agency focus.

How does this contract fit into the broader landscape of defense R&D spending?

This $11 million contract represents a small but specific component within the vast Department of Defense R&D budget, which often runs into tens of billions of dollars annually. Its focus on RIID systems acquisition support aligns with the DoD's ongoing efforts to enhance threat detection capabilities, particularly concerning nuclear and radiological materials. Such contracts are crucial for translating scientific advancements into deployable military technologies. It fits within the broader category of 'Science and Technology Development' and 'Weapons Systems Acquisition Support.' While not a headline-grabbing sum, it signifies investment in specialized capabilities essential for national security, contributing to the overall technological edge sought by the U.S. military.

What is SYMETRICA INC's track record with similar government contracts?

Based solely on the provided data, SYMETRICA INC has secured this $11 million contract with the Department of the Army for RIID Systems Acquisition Support Service. The data indicates it's a delivery order under a larger award, suggesting prior contract vehicles may exist. To assess their track record thoroughly, one would need to examine their past performance on similar contracts, including their history with R&D support, acquisition services, and work related to sensor technologies or defense systems. Information on past performance ratings, any contract disputes, timely delivery, and adherence to budget would be crucial. Without access to federal procurement databases like the Federal Procurement Data System (FPDS) or contractor performance assessment reporting tools, a detailed analysis of SYMETRICA INC's track record is limited.

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 › C – National Defense R&D Services

Competition & Pricing

Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Solicitation Procedures: SUBJECT TO MULTIPLE AWARD FAIR OPPORTUNITY

Solicitation ID: W911QY17R0010

Offers Received: 4

Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE (U)

Evaluated Preference: NONE

Contractor Details

Address: 63 GREAT RD STE 106, MAYNARD, MA, 01754

Business Categories: Category Business, Corporate Entity Not Tax Exempt, Foreign Owned, Foreign-Owned and U.S.-Incorporated Business, Manufacturer of Goods, Not Designated a Small Business, Self-Certified Small Disadvantaged Business, Small Business, Special Designations

Financial Breakdown

Contract Ceiling: $21,384,411

Exercised Options: $11,062,639

Current Obligation: $11,062,639

Contract Characteristics

Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES PROCEDURES NOT USED

Cost or Pricing Data: NO

Parent Contract

Parent Award PIID: W911QY18D0153

IDV Type: IDC

Timeline