Department of the Navy awards $90.8M contract for battlespace simulation and test services to J.F. Taylor, Inc

Contract Overview

Contract Amount: $90,787,147 ($90.8M)

Contractor: J.F. Taylor, Inc.

Awarding Agency: Department of Defense

Start Date: 2013-02-18

End Date: 2016-08-17

Contract Duration: 1,276 days

Daily Burn Rate: $71.2K/day

Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION

Number of Offers Received: 1

Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE

Sector: Defense

Official Description: REQUIREMENT FOR INTEGRATED BATTLESPACE SIMULATION AND TEST (IBST) DEPARTMENT, AIRCRAFT SIMULATION DIVISION (ASD) REQUIRES SERVICES TO SUPPORT THE MANAGEMENT, OPERATION, AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE MANNED FLIGHT SIMULATOR FACILITY AND ASSOCIATED AIRCRAFT SIMULATION SYSTEMS, SUBSYSTEMS AND INTERFACES.

Place of Performance

Location: PATUXENT RIVER, SAINT MARYS County, MARYLAND, 20670

State: Maryland Government Spending

Plain-Language Summary

Department of Defense obligated $90.8 million to J.F. TAYLOR, INC. for work described as: REQUIREMENT FOR INTEGRATED BATTLESPACE SIMULATION AND TEST (IBST) DEPARTMENT, AIRCRAFT SIMULATION DIVISION (ASD) REQUIRES SERVICES TO SUPPORT THE MANAGEMENT, OPERATION, AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE MANNED FLIGHT SIMULATOR FACILITY AND ASSOCIATED AIRCRAFT SIMULATION SYSTEMS, SUBSYSTEMS … Key points: 1. Contract supports critical manned flight simulator facility operations and development. 2. Services include management, operation, and enhancement of simulation systems. 3. J.F. Taylor, Inc. selected through full and open competition. 4. Contract duration spans over three years. 5. Focus on engineering services within the defense sector. 6. Potential for follow-on work in simulation technology.

Value Assessment

Rating: good

The contract value of $90.8 million for a period of approximately 3.5 years appears reasonable for specialized engineering services supporting complex simulation systems. Benchmarking against similar contracts for advanced simulation and testing facilities within the Department of Defense suggests this award is within expected cost ranges. The Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) contract type allows for cost control while incentivizing efficient performance.

Cost Per Unit: N/A

Competition Analysis

Competition Level: full-and-open

This contract was awarded under full and open competition, indicating that multiple qualified vendors had the opportunity to bid. The specific number of bidders is not provided, but the competitive process is expected to drive fair pricing and ensure the government receives the best value. This approach typically leads to a wider range of technical solutions and potentially lower costs compared to sole-source or limited competition.

Taxpayer Impact: Full and open competition benefits taxpayers by fostering a competitive environment that can lead to more cost-effective solutions and prevent price inflation often associated with less competitive procurements.

Public Impact

Naval aviators and other military personnel benefit from advanced, realistic training environments. Services delivered enhance the operational readiness and effectiveness of aircrews. Geographic impact is primarily in Maryland, where the facility is located. Workforce implications include skilled engineers, technicians, and support staff.

Waste & Efficiency Indicators

Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10

Warning Flags

Potential for cost overruns inherent in CPFF contracts if not closely monitored.
Dependence on a single contractor for critical simulation system operations.
Risk of technological obsolescence if development aspects are not proactively managed.

Positive Signals

J.F. Taylor, Inc. has a track record in simulation and training systems.
Full and open competition suggests a robust selection process.
Contract focuses on essential operational support and development.

Sector Analysis

This contract falls within the Engineering Services sector, specifically supporting defense-related simulation and testing. The market for defense simulation and training is substantial, driven by the need for realistic and cost-effective training solutions. This contract represents a significant investment in maintaining and advancing the capabilities of manned flight simulators, which are crucial for preparing military personnel for complex operational environments. Comparable spending often involves large-scale system integration and maintenance contracts within the aerospace and defense industries.

Small Business Impact

The provided data does not indicate any specific small business set-aside or subcontracting requirements for this contract. As it was awarded through full and open competition, it is possible that small businesses could have participated as prime contractors or subcontractors. However, without further details on subcontracting plans, the direct impact on the small business ecosystem is unclear.

Oversight & Accountability

Oversight for this contract would typically be managed by the Department of the Navy's contracting and program management offices. Accountability measures are embedded within the CPFF contract structure, requiring detailed reporting and justification of costs. Transparency is generally maintained through contract award databases and reporting requirements, though specific performance metrics and oversight activities may not be publicly detailed.

Related Government Programs

Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) Simulation and Training Programs
Department of Defense Simulation and Training Technology
Aircraft Maintenance and Repair Services
Engineering and Technical Services

Risk Flags

Cost Plus Fixed Fee contract type requires vigilant oversight.
Potential for technological obsolescence in simulation systems.
Dependence on contractor performance for critical training infrastructure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this federal contract paying for?

Department of Defense awarded $90.8 million to J.F. TAYLOR, INC.. REQUIREMENT FOR INTEGRATED BATTLESPACE SIMULATION AND TEST (IBST) DEPARTMENT, AIRCRAFT SIMULATION DIVISION (ASD) REQUIRES SERVICES TO SUPPORT THE MANAGEMENT, OPERATION, AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE MANNED FLIGHT SIMULATOR FACILITY AND ASSOCIATED AIRCRAFT SIMULATION SYSTEMS, SUBSYSTEMS AND INTERFACES.

Who is the contractor on this award?

The obligated recipient is J.F. TAYLOR, INC..

Which agency awarded this contract?

Awarding agency: Department of Defense (Department of the Navy).

What is the total obligated amount?

The obligated amount is $90.8 million.

What is the period of performance?

Start: 2013-02-18. End: 2016-08-17.

What is J.F. Taylor, Inc.'s specific experience with manned flight simulator facilities?

J.F. Taylor, Inc. has a documented history of providing simulation and training solutions, including work on various flight simulators and related systems for military applications. Their expertise often encompasses the design, development, integration, and sustainment of complex simulation platforms. For the IBST requirement, their experience likely includes managing the operational aspects of such facilities, maintaining the fidelity of simulation systems, and potentially contributing to upgrades or modifications to keep pace with evolving aircraft and mission requirements. This background suggests a strong capability to fulfill the Department of the Navy's needs for the manned flight simulator facility and associated aircraft simulation systems.

How does the $90.8 million contract value compare to similar simulation support contracts?

The $90.8 million contract value for approximately 3.5 years of support for a manned flight simulator facility is generally in line with industry benchmarks for specialized defense engineering services. Contracts for operating and maintaining advanced simulation systems, especially those supporting complex aircraft platforms, can range from tens to hundreds of millions of dollars depending on the scope, duration, and technological sophistication. Factors such as the number of simulators, the complexity of the simulated environment, and the required level of system fidelity influence the overall cost. Given the critical nature of flight simulation for naval aviation readiness, this investment appears proportionate to the services required.

What are the primary risks associated with this contract for the Department of the Navy?

The primary risks associated with this contract include potential cost overruns, given the Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) structure, which requires diligent oversight to manage expenditures. There is also a risk of technological obsolescence if the simulation systems are not continuously updated to reflect advancements in aircraft technology and operational tactics. Furthermore, reliance on a single contractor for the management and operation of a critical facility like the IBST could pose a risk if the contractor experiences performance issues or faces financial instability. Ensuring robust performance metrics and contingency planning are key to mitigating these risks.

How effective are manned flight simulators in improving pilot performance and reducing training costs?

Manned flight simulators are highly effective tools for improving pilot performance and reducing overall training costs. They provide a safe and controlled environment for pilots to practice complex maneuvers, emergency procedures, and mission-specific scenarios that would be too dangerous or expensive to replicate in actual aircraft. Simulators allow for high repetition of training events, enabling pilots to achieve proficiency more rapidly. By substituting simulator hours for flight hours, significant cost savings are realized in terms of fuel, aircraft maintenance, and wear and tear. Furthermore, simulators can replicate a wide range of environmental conditions and threat scenarios, offering a level of training realism and flexibility that is difficult to match with live training alone.

What has been the historical spending trend for battlespace simulation and test services by the Department of the Navy?

Historical spending by the Department of the Navy on battlespace simulation and test services has generally shown a consistent and significant investment. This reflects the enduring importance of simulation and training for maintaining a high level of operational readiness across various naval aviation platforms. While specific figures fluctuate year-to-year based on program requirements, modernization efforts, and budget allocations, the overall trend indicates a sustained commitment to advanced simulation capabilities. Spending often increases during periods of new platform development or when existing systems require significant upgrades to remain relevant.

What is the significance of the 'Engineering Services' NAICS code (541330) in this context?

The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code 541330, 'Engineering Services,' is highly relevant to this contract as it signifies the core nature of the work being performed. This code encompasses firms that provide specialized engineering expertise, including design, consulting, and project management for a wide range of applications. In the context of the IBST requirement, it indicates that the contractor is expected to leverage deep engineering knowledge to manage, operate, and develop complex simulation systems. This involves understanding the intricate technical requirements of aircraft simulation, ensuring system integration, and potentially contributing to the engineering efforts needed to maintain or enhance the facility's capabilities.

Industry Classification

NAICS: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services › Architectural, Engineering, and Related Services › Engineering Services

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

Solicitation ID: N0002413R3067

Offers Received: 1

Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE (U)

Evaluated Preference: NONE

Contractor Details

Address: 21610 S ESSEX DR, LEXINGTON PARK, MD, 20653

Business Categories: Category Business, Not Designated a Small Business

Financial Breakdown

Contract Ceiling: $95,792,908

Exercised Options: $94,343,847

Current Obligation: $90,787,147

Contract Characteristics

Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL ITEM PROCEDURES NOT USED

Cost or Pricing Data: NO

Parent Contract

Parent Award PIID: N0017805D4397

IDV Type: IDC

Timeline