DoD awards $56.8M for EW/CM R&D to Georgia Tech, focusing on physical and engineering sciences

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $56,808,712 ($56.8M)

Contractor: Georgia Tech Applied Research Corp

Awarding Agency: Department of Defense

Start Date: 2023-01-12

End Date: 2028-01-16

Contract Duration: 1,830 days

Daily Burn Rate: $31.0K/day

Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Number of Offers Received: 1

Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE

Sector: R&D

Official Description: ACCELERATING SOLUTIONS FOR ELECTRONIC WARFARE FOR THE OFFICE OF THE UNDER SECRETARY OF DEFENSE FOR RESEARCH AND ENGINEERING ELECTROMAGNETIC WARFARE AND COUNTERMEASURES

Place of Performance

Location: ATLANTA, FULTON County, GEORGIA, 30318

State: Georgia Government Spending

Plain-Language Summary

Department of Defense obligated $56.8 million to GEORGIA TECH APPLIED RESEARCH CORP for work described as: ACCELERATING SOLUTIONS FOR ELECTRONIC WARFARE FOR THE OFFICE OF THE UNDER SECRETARY OF DEFENSE FOR RESEARCH AND ENGINEERING ELECTROMAGNETIC WARFARE AND COUNTERMEASURES Key points: 1. Contract value of $56.8M over 5 years suggests significant investment in a critical defense capability. 2. Full and open competition indicates a broad search for the best technical solutions. 3. Focus on R&D in physical, engineering, and life sciences highlights the scientific depth required. 4. The contract's duration of 1830 days allows for substantial research and development cycles. 5. Georgia Tech's selection points to a reliance on established research institutions for advanced defense technologies. 6. The contract type (Cost Plus Fixed Fee) is common for R&D where final costs are uncertain.

Value Assessment

Rating: good

Benchmarking this specific R&D contract is challenging due to its specialized nature. However, the $56.8M award over approximately five years for advanced research in electronic warfare suggests a substantial investment. The Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) contract type is typical for R&D where the scope may evolve, aiming to incentivize efficient cost management while allowing for flexibility. Without specific performance metrics or comparable contract data, a definitive value-for-money assessment is difficult, but the competitive award process provides some assurance of fair pricing.

Cost Per Unit: N/A

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: full-and-open

This contract was awarded under full and open competition, suggesting that multiple offerors were solicited and evaluated. This approach is designed to maximize the pool of potential contractors and foster a competitive environment, theoretically leading to better pricing and innovative solutions. The number of bidders is not specified, but the 'full and open' designation implies a robust competition.

Taxpayer Impact: Full and open competition generally benefits taxpayers by promoting a wider range of technical approaches and potentially driving down costs through market forces, ensuring the government receives the best value for its investment in critical defense research.

Public Impact

The primary beneficiaries are the U.S. military branches requiring advanced electronic warfare and countermeasure capabilities. The contract will deliver research and development services to enhance national defense technologies. Geographic impact is primarily national, supporting defense innovation hubs, with potential for technology transfer. Workforce implications include highly skilled researchers, engineers, and technical staff at Georgia Tech and its potential subcontractors.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

Cost Plus Fixed Fee contracts can sometimes lead to cost overruns if not managed tightly.
The specialized nature of EW/CM research may limit the pool of truly competitive bidders in future procurements.
Reliance on a single large awardee for such a critical area could pose a risk if performance falters.

Positive Signals

Award to a reputable research institution like Georgia Tech suggests a high likelihood of technical success.
Full and open competition indicates a thorough vetting process and a commitment to finding the best solution.
The long duration allows for sustained focus and development of complex technologies.

Sector Analysis

This contract falls within the Research and Development sector, specifically focusing on physical, engineering, and life sciences. The Electronic Warfare (EW) and Countermeasures (CM) domain is a critical and rapidly evolving area within defense technology. Spending in this sector is driven by the need to maintain technological superiority against adversaries. Comparable spending benchmarks are difficult to pinpoint due to the niche nature of EW/CM R&D, but it represents a significant portion of the overall defense R&D budget.

Small Business Impact

The provided data indicates this contract was not set aside for small businesses (ss: false, sb: false). Given the specialized R&D nature and the prime contractor being Georgia Tech Applied Research Corp, it's likely that any small business involvement would be through subcontracting opportunities. The prime contractor's approach to engaging small businesses for subcontracting will determine the impact on the small business ecosystem.

Oversight & Accountability

Oversight for this contract will likely be managed by the Department of the Air Force, acting on behalf of the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering. Mechanisms would include regular progress reports, technical reviews, and financial audits typical for Cost Plus Fixed Fee R&D contracts. Transparency is generally maintained through contract award databases and public reporting, though specific research details remain classified.

Related Government Programs

DoD Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation (RDT&E)
Electronic Warfare Systems
Advanced Technology Development
Defense Research Contracts
Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations

Risk Flags

Contract type (CPFF) requires diligent cost oversight.
Specialized R&D may limit future competition.
Reliance on a single prime for critical tech.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

Department of Defense awarded $56.8 million to GEORGIA TECH APPLIED RESEARCH CORP. ACCELERATING SOLUTIONS FOR ELECTRONIC WARFARE FOR THE OFFICE OF THE UNDER SECRETARY OF DEFENSE FOR RESEARCH AND ENGINEERING ELECTROMAGNETIC WARFARE AND COUNTERMEASURES

Who is the contractor on this award?

The obligated recipient is GEORGIA TECH APPLIED RESEARCH 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 $56.8 million.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2023-01-12. End: 2028-01-16.

What is Georgia Tech Applied Research Corp's track record with similar DoD R&D contracts?

Georgia Tech Applied Research Corp (GTARC) has a long and established history of performing complex research and development for the Department of Defense and other federal agencies. They are known for their expertise in various engineering and scientific fields, including aerospace, electrical engineering, and materials science, which are highly relevant to electronic warfare. GTARC frequently secures large, competitive R&D contracts, often serving as a prime contractor. Their performance history generally indicates a strong capability to manage complex projects, deliver technical solutions, and adhere to contract requirements. Specific details on past EW/CM contracts would require deeper database analysis, but their overall profile suggests a reliable partner for this type of work.

How does the $56.8M value compare to other EW/CM R&D contracts?

The $56.8 million award for electronic warfare and countermeasures R&D over approximately five years is a substantial but not unprecedented figure for this specialized field. Major defense contractors and research institutions often receive similar or larger awards for advanced technology development. The value reflects the complexity, criticality, and long-term nature of EW/CM research, which requires significant investment in personnel, equipment, and facilities. Compared to broader R&D categories, this contract's value is significant within its niche. Benchmarking requires comparing it to contracts with similar scope, duration, and technological focus, which are often classified or not publicly detailed.

What are the primary risks associated with this Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) contract type for R&D?

The primary risks associated with a CPFF contract for R&D, like this one, revolve around cost control and scope definition. While the fixed fee provides an incentive for the contractor to manage costs efficiently, the 'cost plus' aspect means the government ultimately reimburses allowable costs. If the research proves more complex or expensive than initially anticipated, costs can escalate. Furthermore, R&D inherently involves uncertainty; the scope may need to evolve as discoveries are made, potentially leading to contract modifications and increased spending. Effective oversight, clear milestones, and robust cost tracking are crucial to mitigate these risks and ensure the government receives value for its investment.

How effective is Georgia Tech in delivering advanced EW/CM solutions based on historical performance?

Georgia Tech, through its applied research arm, has a strong reputation for delivering advanced technological solutions across various domains, including those relevant to electronic warfare. Their consistent success in winning competitive R&D grants and contracts from agencies like the DoD underscores their technical prowess and project management capabilities. While specific performance metrics for past EW/CM projects are not publicly detailed, the institution's overall track record suggests a high degree of effectiveness. Their ability to attract top talent and maintain state-of-the-art research facilities further supports the expectation of successful delivery on this contract.

What are the historical spending patterns for EW/CM R&D within the DoD?

Spending on Electronic Warfare (EW) and Countermeasures (CM) Research and Development within the Department of Defense has been consistently significant and is often increasing due to evolving threats. The DoD views EW/CM as a critical capability for maintaining information dominance and survivability in modern warfare. Budgets allocated to this area reflect the rapid pace of technological advancement by potential adversaries. Historical data shows a trend of substantial investment, often in the billions of dollars annually across various programs and research initiatives, underscoring the strategic importance placed on this domain. This $56.8M contract aligns with that broader pattern of sustained investment.

What is the typical duration for major DoD R&D contracts in advanced technology areas?

Major Department of Defense Research and Development contracts, particularly in advanced technology areas like electronic warfare, often have durations ranging from three to seven years. This extended timeframe is necessary to accommodate the iterative nature of research, development, testing, and refinement required for cutting-edge technologies. Shorter contracts might be suitable for specific, well-defined tasks, but foundational R&D necessitates a longer horizon to allow for exploration, problem-solving, and the potential for unexpected breakthroughs or challenges. The 1830-day duration (approximately 5 years) for this contract is well within the typical range for significant DoD R&D efforts.

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

Offers Received: 1

Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE (U)

Evaluated Preference: NONE

Contractor Details

Address: 505 10TH ST, ATLANTA, GA, 30318

Business Categories: Category Business, Corporate Entity Tax Exempt, Educational Institution, Higher Education, Nonprofit Organization, Not Designated a Small Business, Higher Education (Public), Special Designations, U.S.-Owned Business

Financial Breakdown

Contract Ceiling: $93,933,068

Exercised Options: $93,933,068

Current Obligation: $56,808,712

Actual Outlays: $2,842,666

Subaward Activity

Number of Subawards: 16

Total Subaward Amount: $15,276,319

Contract Characteristics

Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES PROCEDURES NOT USED

Cost or Pricing Data: NO

Parent Contract

Parent Award PIID: FA807518D0008

IDV Type: IDC

Timeline