Army awards $187M for AN-PVS-14 night vision devices to Harris Corporation
Contract Overview
Contract Amount: $187,252,142 ($187.3M)
Contractor: Harris Corporation
Awarding Agency: Department of Defense
Start Date: 2006-11-30
End Date: 2009-05-29
Contract Duration: 911 days
Daily Burn Rate: $205.5K/day
Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION
Number of Offers Received: 2
Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE
Sector: Defense
Official Description: AN-PVS-14 (US ARMY)
Place of Performance
Location: ROANOKE, ROANOKE County, VIRGINIA, 24019
State: Virginia Government Spending
Plain-Language Summary
Department of Defense obligated $187.3 million to HARRIS CORPORATION for work described as: AN-PVS-14 (US ARMY) Key points: 1. Significant contract value of $187.25 million for night vision technology. 2. Harris Corporation, a major defense contractor, secured this award. 3. Full and open competition was utilized, suggesting a competitive bidding process. 4. The contract spans over two years, indicating a substantial operational need.
Value Assessment
Rating: good
The award amount of $187.25 million for AN-PVS-14 devices appears reasonable given the contract duration and the nature of advanced optical equipment. Benchmarking against similar defense contracts for specialized optics would provide further validation.
Cost Per Unit: N/A
Competition Analysis
Competition Level: full-and-open
The contract was awarded under full and open competition, which typically fosters competitive pricing and allows for the best value to be determined. This method suggests multiple bidders likely participated, driving down costs.
Taxpayer Impact: Taxpayer funds are being used efficiently through a competitive process for essential military equipment.
Public Impact
Enhances soldier capabilities through advanced night vision technology. Supports military readiness and operational effectiveness in low-light conditions. Contributes to the technological superiority of the U.S. Army.
Waste & Efficiency Indicators
Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10
Warning Flags
- Potential for cost overruns if production challenges arise.
- Dependence on a single supplier (Harris Corporation) for this specific model.
Positive Signals
- Awarded through full and open competition.
- Utilizes a firm fixed price contract, providing cost certainty.
- Supports critical military operational needs.
Sector Analysis
The Department of Defense frequently procures optical instruments and related manufacturing services. Spending in this sector is driven by technological advancements and the need for superior soldier equipment, with benchmarks varying widely based on specialization.
Small Business Impact
This contract was awarded to a large corporation (Harris Corporation) and does not appear to have specific set-asides for small businesses. Further analysis would be needed to determine if small businesses were involved as subcontractors.
Oversight & Accountability
The contract was awarded by the Department of the Army, part of the Department of Defense, which has established oversight mechanisms for defense procurement. The firm fixed price structure provides a degree of financial accountability.
Related Government Programs
- Optical Instrument and Lens Manufacturing
- Department of Defense Contracting
- Department of the Army Programs
Risk Flags
- Contract duration is substantial (911 days).
- Awarded to a single, large prime contractor.
- Potential for technology obsolescence over the contract period.
- Dependence on specific manufacturing capabilities.
Tags
optical-instrument-and-lens-manufacturin, department-of-defense, va, do, 100m-plus
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this federal contract paying for?
Department of Defense awarded $187.3 million to HARRIS CORPORATION. AN-PVS-14 (US ARMY)
Who is the contractor on this award?
The obligated recipient is HARRIS CORPORATION.
Which agency awarded this contract?
Awarding agency: Department of Defense (Department of the Army).
What is the total obligated amount?
The obligated amount is $187.3 million.
What is the period of performance?
Start: 2006-11-30. End: 2009-05-29.
What is the specific technological advantage offered by the AN-PVS-14 compared to previous generations or competitor systems?
The AN-PVS-14 is a Generation III night vision monocular known for its high-resolution image intensification, providing soldiers with crucial visibility in extremely low-light conditions. Its compact and versatile design allows for handheld, weapon-mounted, or helmet-mounted use, offering significant tactical advantages over older, bulkier systems and enhancing situational awareness.
What are the primary risks associated with the long-term sustainment and maintenance of these AN-PVS-14 units?
Key risks include the potential for component obsolescence over the lifespan of the devices, the need for specialized repair facilities and trained technicians, and the possibility of degradation in performance due to environmental factors or heavy use. Ensuring a steady supply of replacement parts and managing the lifecycle costs of maintenance are critical.
How effectively does the firm fixed price contract mitigate potential cost overruns for the Army?
A firm fixed price contract is highly effective in mitigating cost overruns for the buyer, as the contractor assumes the risk of increased costs. This structure provides budget certainty for the Army, provided the initial price was set competitively and accurately reflects the scope of work and anticipated expenses for Harris Corporation.
Industry Classification
NAICS: Manufacturing › Commercial and Service Industry Machinery Manufacturing › Optical Instrument and Lens Manufacturing
Product/Service Code: COMM/DETECT/COHERENT RADIATION
Competition & Pricing
Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION
Solicitation Procedures: SUBJECT TO MULTIPLE AWARD FAIR OPPORTUNITY
Offers Received: 2
Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE (J)
Evaluated Preference: NONE
Contractor Details
Parent Company: ITT Corporation (UEI: 001216845)
Address: 7635 PLANTATION RD, ROANOKE, VA, 06
Business Categories: Category Business, Not Designated a Small Business
Financial Breakdown
Contract Ceiling: $187,252,142
Exercised Options: $187,252,142
Current Obligation: $187,252,142
Contract Characteristics
Cost or Pricing Data: NO
Parent Contract
Parent Award PIID: W9124Q05D0821
IDV Type: IDC
Timeline
Start Date: 2006-11-30
Current End Date: 2009-05-29
Potential End Date: 2009-05-29 00:00:00
Last Modified: 2010-12-09
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