DHS awards $42.8M for Low Energy Mobile Imaging Systems to AS&E under full and open competition
Contract Overview
Contract Amount: $42,783,064 ($42.8M)
Contractor: American Science & Engineering Inc
Awarding Agency: Department of Homeland Security
Start Date: 2009-10-09
End Date: 2011-09-30
Contract Duration: 721 days
Daily Burn Rate: $59.3K/day
Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION
Number of Offers Received: 2
Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE
Sector: Other
Official Description: TAS::70 0534::TAS LOW ENERGY MOBILE IMAGING SYSTEM
Place of Performance
Location: BILLERICA, MIDDLESEX County, MASSACHUSETTS, 01821
Plain-Language Summary
Department of Homeland Security obligated $42.8 million to AMERICAN SCIENCE & ENGINEERING INC for work described as: TAS::70 0534::TAS LOW ENERGY MOBILE IMAGING SYSTEM Key points: 1. The contract value of $42.8M for imaging systems falls within a typical range for specialized equipment. 2. American Science & Engineering Inc. is a key player in the detection and imaging market. 3. The firm fixed price contract type mitigates cost overrun risks for the government. 4. This procurement is within the 'Search, Detection, Navigation, Guidance, Aeronautical, and Nautical System and Instrument Manufacturing' sector.
Value Assessment
Rating: good
The $42.8M award for mobile imaging systems appears reasonable given the specialized nature of the equipment and the contract duration. Benchmarking against similar government contracts for advanced detection systems would provide a more precise assessment.
Cost Per Unit: N/A
Competition Analysis
Competition Level: full-and-open
The contract was awarded under full and open competition, suggesting a robust price discovery process. This method typically leads to more competitive pricing compared to limited or sole-source procurements.
Taxpayer Impact: The use of full and open competition likely resulted in a fair market price, maximizing the value of taxpayer funds spent on this critical security equipment.
Public Impact
Enhances border security capabilities through advanced imaging technology. Supports U.S. Customs and Border Protection operations in detecting threats. The mobile nature of the system allows for flexible deployment at various locations. Contributes to national security by improving cargo and passenger screening.
Waste & Efficiency Indicators
Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10
Warning Flags
- Lack of specific performance metrics in provided data.
- Potential for obsolescence of technology over time.
- Dependence on a single contractor for this specific system.
Positive Signals
- Firm fixed price contract limits cost escalation.
- Awarded through full and open competition.
- Supports a critical national security mission.
Sector Analysis
The procurement falls under the manufacturing of search and detection instruments, a sector vital for national security and border control. Spending in this area is often driven by evolving threat landscapes and technological advancements.
Small Business Impact
The data indicates the award went to American Science & Engineering Inc., a large business. There is no indication of small business participation in this specific contract award.
Oversight & Accountability
The contract was awarded by the Department of Homeland Security to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Standard government oversight processes would apply to ensure contract performance and delivery.
Related Government Programs
- Search, Detection, Navigation, Guidance, Aeronautical, and Nautical System and Instrument Manufacturing
- Department of Homeland Security Contracting
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection Programs
Risk Flags
- Technology obsolescence risk.
- Potential for high maintenance costs.
- Limited visibility into long-term operational effectiveness.
- Dependence on specific vendor capabilities.
Tags
search-detection-navigation-guidance-aer, department-of-homeland-security, ma, definitive-contract, 10m-plus
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this federal contract paying for?
Department of Homeland Security awarded $42.8 million to AMERICAN SCIENCE & ENGINEERING INC. TAS::70 0534::TAS LOW ENERGY MOBILE IMAGING SYSTEM
Who is the contractor on this award?
The obligated recipient is AMERICAN SCIENCE & ENGINEERING INC.
Which agency awarded this contract?
Awarding agency: Department of Homeland Security (U.S. Customs and Border Protection).
What is the total obligated amount?
The obligated amount is $42.8 million.
What is the period of performance?
Start: 2009-10-09. End: 2011-09-30.
What is the expected lifespan and upgrade path for this imaging system technology?
The provided data does not specify the expected lifespan or upgrade path for the Low Energy Mobile Imaging System. Understanding these aspects is crucial for assessing long-term value and planning for future technological needs. Further inquiry with the agency would be necessary to determine if a sustainment or upgrade strategy is in place.
How does the performance of this system compare to alternative technologies in the market?
The data does not offer comparative performance metrics against alternative technologies. While the contract was awarded competitively, the specific advantages and disadvantages of this system relative to others are not detailed. A post-award review or market research report might contain this information, assessing its effectiveness in real-world scenarios.
What is the total cost of ownership, including maintenance and operational expenses, over the contract period?
The provided data only includes the award amount ($42.8M) and contract type (firm fixed price). It does not detail the total cost of ownership, which would encompass maintenance, training, and operational expenses. These additional costs are essential for a comprehensive value assessment and are likely managed separately by the agency.
Industry Classification
NAICS: Manufacturing › Navigational, Measuring, Electromedical, and Control Instruments Manufacturing › Search, Detection, Navigation, Guidance, Aeronautical, and Nautical System and Instrument Manufacturing
Product/Service Code: INSTRUMENTS AND LABORATORY EQPT
Competition & Pricing
Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION
Solicitation Procedures: NEGOTIATED PROPOSAL/QUOTE
Solicitation ID: HSBP1009R2595
Offers Received: 2
Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE (J)
Evaluated Preference: NONE
Contractor Details
Parent Company: OSI Systems Inc (UEI: 178295812)
Address: 829 MIDDLESEX TPKE, BILLERICA, MA, 01821
Business Categories: Category Business, Corporate Entity Not Tax Exempt, Manufacturer of Goods, Small Business, Special Designations, U.S.-Owned Business
Financial Breakdown
Contract Ceiling: $69,447,114
Exercised Options: $42,783,064
Current Obligation: $42,783,064
Contract Characteristics
Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL ITEM PROCEDURES NOT USED
Timeline
Start Date: 2009-10-09
Current End Date: 2011-09-30
Potential End Date: 2011-09-30 00:00:00
Last Modified: 2017-08-01
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