DHS awards $45.2M for Irradiation Apparatus Manufacturing to Smiths Detection, Inc

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $45,213,025 ($45.2M)

Contractor: Smiths Detection, Inc

Awarding Agency: Department of Homeland Security

Start Date: 2012-08-31

End Date: 2018-03-31

Contract Duration: 2,038 days

Daily Burn Rate: $22.2K/day

Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Number of Offers Received: 2

Pricing Type: FIRM FIXED PRICE

Sector: Other

Official Description: "IGF::OT::IGF"

Place of Performance

Location: ARLINGTON, LOUDOUN County, VIRGINIA, 20598

State: Virginia Government Spending

Plain-Language Summary

Department of Homeland Security obligated $45.2 million to SMITHS DETECTION, INC for work described as: "IGF::OT::IGF" Key points: 1. The contract value of $45.2M is significant for specialized equipment. 2. Full and open competition was utilized, suggesting a competitive bidding process. 3. The contract spans over 5 years, indicating a long-term need. 4. The sector is manufacturing, specifically for irradiation apparatus.

Value Assessment

Rating: fair

The contract value is substantial. Without specific unit cost data or benchmarks for irradiation apparatus, a precise value assessment is difficult. The award amount suggests a significant investment in specialized equipment.

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. The existence of multiple bidders would likely drive prices down, but the final award amount reflects the market value for this specialized equipment.

Taxpayer Impact: Taxpayer funds are used for this procurement. The use of full and open competition aims to ensure fair pricing and maximize the value for taxpayer dollars.

Public Impact

Enhances security screening capabilities at transportation checkpoints. Supports the Department of Homeland Security's mission to protect the nation. Procurement of specialized manufacturing equipment impacts the industrial base.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

Lack of specific unit cost data for benchmarking.
Long contract duration could lead to price escalation risks.
Dependence on a single manufacturer for specialized equipment.

Positive Signals

Awarded through full and open competition.
Supports critical national security functions.
Firm fixed price contract provides cost certainty.

Sector Analysis

The procurement falls within the manufacturing sector, specifically for specialized irradiation apparatus. Spending benchmarks for such niche equipment are not readily available, but the contract value indicates a significant investment in advanced technology for security purposes.

Small Business Impact

The data indicates the award went to a large business (Smiths Detection, Inc.). There is no indication of small business participation in this specific contract award.

Oversight & Accountability

The Department of Homeland Security, through the Transportation Security Administration, is responsible for this procurement. Oversight would involve ensuring contract compliance, performance, and adherence to terms throughout the contract period.

Related Government Programs

Irradiation Apparatus Manufacturing
Department of Homeland Security Contracting
Transportation Security Administration Programs

Risk Flags

Potential for price increases over the contract duration.
Dependence on a single supplier for critical equipment.
Risk of technological obsolescence.
Lack of detailed cost breakdown for unit pricing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

Department of Homeland Security awarded $45.2 million to SMITHS DETECTION, INC. "IGF::OT::IGF"

Who is the contractor on this award?

The obligated recipient is SMITHS DETECTION, INC.

Which agency awarded this contract?

Awarding agency: Department of Homeland Security (Transportation Security Administration).

What is the total obligated amount?

The obligated amount is $45.2 million.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2012-08-31. End: 2018-03-31.

What is the specific type and capability of the irradiation apparatus being procured, and how does it align with current TSA operational needs?

The irradiation apparatus is likely used for advanced threat detection and screening at transportation hubs. Its specific capabilities would relate to identifying hazardous materials or contraband through irradiation technology. Alignment with TSA needs would depend on the evolving threat landscape and the agency's strategy for enhancing passenger and cargo security.

What were the key factors that led to the selection of Smiths Detection, Inc. under full and open competition, and were there any significant price differences among bidders?

Selection under full and open competition implies Smiths Detection, Inc. offered the best value, considering factors like technical merit, past performance, and price. While the contract was competitively awarded, specific details on price differences among bidders are not provided. The final award price reflects the government's determination of fair and reasonable cost based on the proposals received.

What is the long-term strategy for maintaining and upgrading this irradiation apparatus, and what is the potential for obsolescence given the rapid pace of technological advancement?

The long-term strategy would involve maintenance schedules, potential service contracts, and upgrade paths outlined within the contract or future procurements. Given the rapid advancement in technology, the potential for obsolescence is a constant concern. The government likely has provisions for technology refresh or replacement to ensure the apparatus remains effective against emerging threats.

Industry Classification

NAICS: Manufacturing › Navigational, Measuring, Electromedical, and Control Instruments Manufacturing › Irradiation Apparatus Manufacturing

Product/Service Code: ALARM, SIGNAL, SECURITY DETECTION

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: Safran Power USA LLC (UEI: 275374015)

Address: 7151 GATEWAY BLVD, NEWARK, CA, 94560

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

Financial Breakdown

Contract Ceiling: $45,213,025

Exercised Options: $45,213,025

Current Obligation: $45,213,025

Contract Characteristics

Multi-Year Contract: Yes

Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL ITEM PROCEDURES NOT USED

Cost or Pricing Data: NO

Parent Contract

Parent Award PIID: HSTS0412DCT1173

IDV Type: IDC

Timeline