Air Force awards $15.6M contract for weather system sustainment and cybersecurity to Science Applications International Corp

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $15,571,422 ($15.6M)

Contractor: Science Applications International Corp

Awarding Agency: Department of Defense

Start Date: 2025-06-08

End Date: 2026-06-07

Contract Duration: 364 days

Daily Burn Rate: $42.8K/day

Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE

Sector: IT

Official Description: RETURN TO SERVICE (RTS), SUSTAINMENT, AND CYBERSECURITY. SYSTEM SUSTAINMENT FUNCTIONS REQUIRED TO SUPPORT AIR FORCE WEATHER (AFW) TO INCLUDE CORRECTIVE MAINTENANCE.

Place of Performance

Location: OFFUTT AFB, SARPY County, NEBRASKA, 68113

State: Nebraska Government Spending

Plain-Language Summary

Department of Defense obligated $15.6 million to SCIENCE APPLICATIONS INTERNATIONAL CORP for work described as: RETURN TO SERVICE (RTS), SUSTAINMENT, AND CYBERSECURITY. SYSTEM SUSTAINMENT FUNCTIONS REQUIRED TO SUPPORT AIR FORCE WEATHER (AFW) TO INCLUDE CORRECTIVE MAINTENANCE. Key points: 1. Contract focuses on critical sustainment and cybersecurity for Air Force Weather systems. 2. The award utilizes a Cost Plus Fixed Fee pricing structure. 3. This contract is for a duration of 364 days. 4. The system's primary function is Return to Service (RTS) and sustainment. 5. Cybersecurity is a key component of the required services. 6. The contract was awarded under full and open competition.

Value Assessment

Rating: good

The contract value of $15.6 million for a one-year period for system sustainment and cybersecurity appears reasonable given the critical nature of Air Force Weather systems. While specific benchmarks for this exact service are not readily available, similar IT sustainment and cybersecurity contracts for complex defense systems often fall within this range. The Cost Plus Fixed Fee structure allows for flexibility while providing a defined profit margin for the contractor, which can be efficient for evolving technical requirements. Further analysis would require comparing the scope of work and deliverables to other Air Force IT sustainment contracts.

Cost Per Unit: N/A

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: full-and-open

This contract was awarded through full and open competition, indicating that multiple vendors had the opportunity to bid. The specific number of bidders is not provided, but the competitive nature suggests that the Air Force sought the best value proposition. This approach generally leads to more favorable pricing and a wider range of technical solutions being considered. The use of full and open competition is a standard and preferred method for acquiring complex IT services.

Taxpayer Impact: Taxpayers benefit from full and open competition through potentially lower prices and access to a broader pool of innovative solutions, ensuring that the government receives the best possible value for its investment in critical weather systems.

Public Impact

The primary beneficiaries are the United States Air Force, ensuring the continued operation and security of its weather systems. Services delivered include corrective maintenance, system sustainment, and cybersecurity measures. The geographic impact is likely global, supporting Air Force operations worldwide. Workforce implications include the need for skilled IT professionals and cybersecurity experts to maintain and secure these systems.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

Potential for cost overruns inherent in Cost Plus Fixed Fee contracts if not closely managed.
Dependence on a single contractor for critical system sustainment and cybersecurity.
Ensuring adequate cybersecurity measures are implemented and maintained throughout the contract period.

Positive Signals

Awarded through full and open competition, suggesting a competitive bidding process.
Focus on critical system sustainment and cybersecurity indicates a commitment to operational readiness.
Contract duration of one year allows for periodic re-evaluation of needs and performance.

Sector Analysis

This contract falls within the Computer Systems Design Services sector, a significant segment of the IT services market. The total government spending on IT services is substantial, with a considerable portion allocated to system sustainment, maintenance, and cybersecurity for defense applications. This specific contract supports a niche but vital area within the Air Force's operational infrastructure. Comparable spending benchmarks would involve analyzing other contracts for similar sustainment and cybersecurity services for large-scale defense IT systems.

Small Business Impact

The data indicates this contract was not set aside for small businesses (ss: false, sb: false). Science Applications International Corp (SAIC) is a large business. There is no explicit information on subcontracting plans for small businesses within this award notice. Therefore, the direct impact on the small business ecosystem from this specific contract is likely minimal, though SAIC may engage small businesses as subcontractors depending on their internal policies and the specific needs of the contract.

Oversight & Accountability

Oversight for this contract will likely be managed by the contracting officer and program management office within the Department of the Air Force. Accountability measures are typically embedded in the contract terms, including performance metrics and reporting requirements. Transparency is facilitated through contract award databases like FPDS. Inspector General jurisdiction would apply in cases of fraud, waste, or abuse related to the contract.

Related Government Programs

Air Force Weather Systems Modernization
DoD Cybersecurity Initiatives
IT System Sustainment Contracts
Cloud Computing Services for Defense

Risk Flags

Cost Overrun Risk (CPFF)
Cybersecurity Vulnerability
Sole Source Dependency (if competition was limited)
Performance Measurement Challenges

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

Department of Defense awarded $15.6 million to SCIENCE APPLICATIONS INTERNATIONAL CORP. RETURN TO SERVICE (RTS), SUSTAINMENT, AND CYBERSECURITY. SYSTEM SUSTAINMENT FUNCTIONS REQUIRED TO SUPPORT AIR FORCE WEATHER (AFW) TO INCLUDE CORRECTIVE MAINTENANCE.

Who is the contractor on this award?

The obligated recipient is SCIENCE APPLICATIONS INTERNATIONAL CORP.

Which agency awarded this contract?

Awarding agency: Department of Defense (Department of the Air Force).

What is the total obligated amount?

The obligated amount is $15.6 million.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2025-06-08. End: 2026-06-07.

What is the track record of Science Applications International Corp (SAIC) in performing similar IT sustainment and cybersecurity contracts for the Department of Defense?

Science Applications International Corp (SAIC) has a substantial track record with the Department of Defense (DoD) and various federal agencies, frequently securing contracts for IT services, system sustainment, cybersecurity, and complex engineering solutions. SAIC has historically been a major prime contractor for numerous large-scale IT programs across different military branches. Their experience often includes managing critical infrastructure, providing software development and maintenance, and implementing robust cybersecurity measures. For instance, SAIC has held significant contracts related to enterprise resource planning systems, command and control systems, and data center operations. Their performance on these contracts is generally viewed as good, though like any large contractor, specific contract performance can vary. Detailed performance reviews and past performance evaluations are typically part of the source selection process for new awards, but are not publicly detailed in this award notice.

How does the $15.6 million value compare to similar Air Force IT sustainment contracts over the past two years?

Comparing the $15.6 million value for a 364-day contract requires context regarding the scope and complexity of the Air Force Weather (AFW) system sustainment and cybersecurity requirements. Generally, IT sustainment contracts for critical defense systems can range from a few million to tens or even hundreds of millions of dollars annually, depending on the system's size, criticality, and the services required (e.g., hardware/software maintenance, upgrades, cybersecurity, help desk support). A $15.6 million award for a year of sustainment and cybersecurity for a specialized system like AFW appears to be within a reasonable range for a significant IT program. Without specific details on the number of users, system architecture, and the depth of cybersecurity services mandated, a precise benchmark is difficult. However, it suggests a moderately sized, yet crucial, IT support contract.

What are the primary risks associated with a Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) contract for system sustainment?

The primary risk associated with a Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) contract for system sustainment lies in the potential for cost overruns, which can impact the government's budget. In a CPFF structure, the contractor is reimbursed for allowable costs plus a negotiated fixed fee representing profit. If the contractor's costs exceed initial estimates, the government bears the burden of these increased expenses, while the contractor's profit remains fixed. This can incentivize contractors to be less cost-conscious than in fixed-price arrangements. For system sustainment, risks include unforeseen technical challenges, aging infrastructure requiring more extensive maintenance, or evolving cybersecurity threats necessitating additional, unbudgeted work. Effective oversight, detailed cost tracking, and robust change management processes are crucial to mitigate these risks and ensure value for the taxpayer.

What is the expected impact of this contract on the operational effectiveness of the Air Force Weather (AFW) system?

This contract is expected to significantly enhance the operational effectiveness of the Air Force Weather (AFW) system by ensuring its continuous availability, reliability, and security. System sustainment functions, including corrective maintenance, are vital for addressing hardware and software issues promptly, minimizing downtime, and maintaining optimal performance. The inclusion of cybersecurity services is critical for protecting the AFW system from evolving cyber threats, safeguarding sensitive weather data, and preventing disruptions to weather forecasting and dissemination capabilities. By maintaining the system's integrity and security, this contract directly supports the Air Force's mission-critical weather intelligence, which is essential for flight operations, mission planning, and overall force readiness across various global environments.

How has federal spending on IT system sustainment and cybersecurity evolved, and how does this contract fit into that trend?

Federal spending on IT system sustainment and cybersecurity has seen a consistent upward trend over the past decade, driven by the increasing reliance on digital infrastructure, the growing sophistication of cyber threats, and the need to maintain aging legacy systems. Agencies are dedicating larger portions of their IT budgets to ensuring the security and operational continuity of their systems. This contract, valued at $15.6 million for one year of sustainment and cybersecurity for the Air Force Weather system, aligns with this trend. It reflects the government's commitment to prioritizing the security and reliability of critical operational systems. The focus on both sustainment and cybersecurity highlights the integrated approach agencies are taking to manage their IT assets effectively in a complex threat landscape.

Industry Classification

NAICS: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services › Computer Systems Design and Related Services › Computer Systems Design Services

Product/Service Code: IT AND TELECOM - INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS › IT AND TELECOM - APLLICATIONS

Competition & Pricing

Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Solicitation Procedures: NEGOTIATED PROPOSAL/QUOTE

Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE (U)

Evaluated Preference: NONE

Contractor Details

Parent Company: Science Applications International Corporation

Address: 11720 PLAZA AMERICA DR, RESTON, VA, 20190

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

Financial Breakdown

Contract Ceiling: $19,176,703

Exercised Options: $15,707,735

Current Obligation: $15,571,422

Subaward Activity

Number of Subawards: 16

Total Subaward Amount: $2,857,059

Contract Characteristics

Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES PROCEDURES NOT USED

Cost or Pricing Data: NO

Parent Contract

Parent Award PIID: FA460020D0002

IDV Type: IDC

Timeline