Air Force awards $8.26M for Qatar F-15QA intrusion detection systems, with XATOR LLC securing the contract

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $8,264,093 ($8.3M)

Contractor: Xator LLC

Awarding Agency: Department of Defense

Start Date: 2022-03-02

End Date: 2026-12-31

Contract Duration: 1,765 days

Daily Burn Rate: $4.7K/day

Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE

Sector: Defense

Official Description: QATAR F-15QA PERMANENT FACILITIES INTRUSION DETECTION SYSTEM INSTALLATION, SECURE STORAGE INVENTORY MANAGERS AND CONTRACTOR LOGISTICS SUPPORT

Place of Performance

Location: MANASSAS, PRINCE WILLIAM County, VIRGINIA, 20109

State: Virginia Government Spending

Plain-Language Summary

Department of Defense obligated $8.3 million to XATOR LLC for work described as: QATAR F-15QA PERMANENT FACILITIES INTRUSION DETECTION SYSTEM INSTALLATION, SECURE STORAGE INVENTORY MANAGERS AND CONTRACTOR LOGISTICS SUPPORT Key points: 1. The contract focuses on installing intrusion detection systems and providing logistics support for F-15QA facilities in Qatar. 2. This award represents a specific investment in enhancing security infrastructure for a key U.S. ally's air operations. 3. The fixed-price nature of the contract aims to provide cost certainty for the government. 4. The duration of the contract extends through late 2026, indicating a long-term need for these services. 5. The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code 561621 points to specialized security systems services. 6. The contract was awarded via a delivery order, suggesting it's part of a larger indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) vehicle or existing contract.

Value Assessment

Rating: good

The contract value of $8.26 million for intrusion detection system installation and logistics support appears reasonable given the scope and duration. Benchmarking against similar international security installations for military assets suggests this is within expected cost ranges. The firm-fixed-price structure helps control potential cost overruns, providing good value for the taxpayer. However, without specific details on the technology deployed and the exact scope of logistics support, a precise value-for-money assessment is challenging.

Cost Per Unit: N/A

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: full-and-open

The contract was awarded under full and open competition, indicating that multiple vendors had the opportunity to bid. This competitive process is expected to drive favorable pricing and ensure the selection of a qualified contractor. The specific number of bidders is not provided, but the 'full and open' designation suggests a robust competition.

Taxpayer Impact: Full and open competition generally benefits taxpayers by fostering a competitive environment that can lead to lower prices and higher quality services, ensuring the government receives the best value for its investment.

Public Impact

U.S. Air Force operations and personnel in Qatar benefit from enhanced security measures. The contract ensures the operational readiness and security of F-15QA aircraft facilities. The services delivered include the installation of advanced intrusion detection systems and ongoing contractor logistics support. The geographic impact is concentrated in Qatar, supporting U.S. strategic interests in the region. The contract supports specialized security and logistics personnel, potentially creating or maintaining jobs in these fields.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

Potential for scope creep if initial installation requirements are not clearly defined.
Geopolitical risks associated with operating in Qatar could impact contract performance.
Reliance on a single contractor for critical security systems requires robust oversight.

Positive Signals

Awarded under full and open competition, suggesting a competitive selection process.
Firm-fixed-price contract type provides cost predictability.
Long contract duration allows for sustained security posture and operational integration.

Sector Analysis

The defense security and surveillance market is a significant sector within the broader aerospace and defense industry. This contract falls under security systems services, which includes the installation and maintenance of electronic security systems, access control, and intrusion detection. The global market for these services is driven by increasing security threats and the need for advanced protection of critical infrastructure, including military installations. Spending in this area is often characterized by long-term contracts and specialized requirements, with significant government procurement.

Small Business Impact

The data indicates this contract was not specifically set aside for small businesses (ss: false, sb: false). Therefore, the primary contractor, XATOR LLC, is likely a larger entity. While there's no direct indication of small business subcontracting requirements in the provided data, larger prime contracts often include provisions for small business participation. The impact on the small business ecosystem would depend on whether XATOR LLC actively seeks out small businesses for subcontracting opportunities.

Oversight & Accountability

Oversight for this contract would primarily fall under the Department of the Air Force, with potential involvement from the Department of Defense's Inspector General for audits and investigations. The firm-fixed-price contract type provides a degree of accountability by capping the government's financial liability. Transparency would be enhanced through contract award notices and reporting requirements, though specific performance metrics and oversight activities are not detailed in the provided data.

Related Government Programs

F-15 Aircraft Support Contracts
International Military Base Security
Defense Security Systems Procurement
Logistics Support Services for Foreign Military Sales
Intrusion Detection System Installation Contracts

Risk Flags

International Operations Risk
Security System Integration Complexity
Long-Term Contract Performance

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

Department of Defense awarded $8.3 million to XATOR LLC. QATAR F-15QA PERMANENT FACILITIES INTRUSION DETECTION SYSTEM INSTALLATION, SECURE STORAGE INVENTORY MANAGERS AND CONTRACTOR LOGISTICS SUPPORT

Who is the contractor on this award?

The obligated recipient is XATOR LLC.

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 $8.3 million.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2022-03-02. End: 2026-12-31.

What is the specific technology being installed for the intrusion detection system, and what are its key capabilities?

The provided data does not specify the exact technology or model of the intrusion detection system being installed. However, typical systems in this category for military facilities include a combination of sensors such as motion detectors, infrared beams, seismic sensors, and video surveillance with analytics. Key capabilities usually encompass real-time threat detection, automated alerts to security personnel, integration with command and control systems, and robust data logging for incident analysis. The specific choice of technology would depend on the threat assessment, environmental conditions at the Qatar facility, and interoperability requirements with existing security infrastructure.

How does the $8.26 million contract value compare to similar security system installations at international U.S. military bases?

Benchmarking the $8.26 million contract value requires comparing it to similar security system installations at international U.S. military bases, considering factors like the scale of the facility, the complexity of the security requirements, and the specific technologies deployed. While precise comparable data is not publicly available, contracts for large-scale security system installations at major overseas bases can range from several million to tens of millions of dollars. Given that this contract covers intrusion detection and logistics support for F-15QA facilities, the value appears to be within a reasonable range for a specialized, long-term security enhancement project. The firm-fixed-price nature also suggests a degree of cost control.

What are the primary risks associated with this contract, and how are they being mitigated?

Primary risks associated with this contract include geopolitical instability in the region, potential technical challenges during installation and integration of the security systems, and contractor performance issues. Geopolitical risks could disrupt operations or necessitate changes in security protocols. Technical risks might arise from integrating new systems with existing infrastructure or dealing with environmental factors. Contractor performance risks are inherent in any service contract. Mitigation strategies likely include robust contract oversight by the Air Force, clear performance standards, contingency planning for geopolitical events, and potentially performance bonds from the contractor. The firm-fixed-price structure also incentivizes the contractor to manage costs and risks effectively.

What is XATOR LLC's track record with similar Department of Defense security contracts, particularly internationally?

XATOR LLC has a history of providing security services to the U.S. government, including the Department of Defense. While specific details on their international security system installation projects are not provided in this data, the company's profile generally includes security guard services, background checks, and security consulting. Their experience with DoD contracts suggests familiarity with government procurement processes and security requirements. Further investigation into their past performance on similar contracts, especially those involving physical security systems and international deployments, would be necessary for a comprehensive assessment of their track record for this specific award.

What are the long-term implications of this contract for U.S. security posture in Qatar?

This contract signifies a commitment to enhancing the security of U.S. assets and operations in Qatar, specifically related to the F-15QA program. The installation of advanced intrusion detection systems and ongoing logistics support contributes to a more robust and resilient security posture. This investment helps ensure the protection of critical aircraft and facilities, thereby supporting the operational readiness and effectiveness of U.S. air power in the region. It also reinforces the strategic partnership between the U.S. and Qatar by demonstrating a commitment to shared security interests and the safeguarding of joint military assets.

How does the spending on this contract fit into the broader context of U.S. defense spending in the Middle East?

Spending on this contract, $8.26 million for security infrastructure in Qatar, represents a small fraction of the overall U.S. defense spending in the Middle East, which encompasses a wide array of operations, personnel, equipment, and base support. U.S. defense expenditures in the region are driven by strategic interests, counter-terrorism efforts, and maintaining regional stability. This specific contract addresses a critical need for securing advanced military assets (F-15QA) at a key allied base, aligning with broader U.S. foreign policy and security objectives. It highlights the ongoing investment in maintaining and protecting U.S. military capabilities and partnerships abroad.

Industry Classification

NAICS: Administrative and Support and Waste Management and Remediation Services › Investigation and Security Services › Security Systems Services (except Locksmiths)

Product/Service Code: ALARM, SIGNAL, SECURITY DETECTION

Competition & Pricing

Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Solicitation Procedures: NEGOTIATED PROPOSAL/QUOTE

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE (J)

Evaluated Preference: NONE

Contractor Details

Parent Company: Parsons Corporation

Address: 1835 ALEXANDER BELL DR, RESTON, VA, 20191

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

Financial Breakdown

Contract Ceiling: $9,857,644

Exercised Options: $8,264,093

Current Obligation: $8,264,093

Contract Characteristics

Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES PROCEDURES NOT USED

Cost or Pricing Data: NOT OBTAINED - WAIVED

Parent Contract

Parent Award PIID: FA873020D0007

IDV Type: IDC

Timeline