DoD's $9.86M Engineering Services Contract Awarded to Bowhead Mission Solutions Shows Fair Value Amidst Robust Competition
Contract Overview
Contract Amount: $9,861,004 ($9.9M)
Contractor: Bowhead Mission Solutions, LLC
Awarding Agency: Department of Defense
Start Date: 2020-05-29
End Date: 2022-06-30
Contract Duration: 762 days
Daily Burn Rate: $12.9K/day
Competition Type: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION AFTER EXCLUSION OF SOURCES
Number of Offers Received: 8
Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE
Sector: Other
Official Description: LABOR, TRAVEL, AND ODC (CPFF AND COST)
Place of Performance
Location: COLORADO SPRINGS, EL PASO County, COLORADO, 80912
State: Colorado Government Spending
Plain-Language Summary
Department of Defense obligated $9.9 million to BOWHEAD MISSION SOLUTIONS, LLC for work described as: LABOR, TRAVEL, AND ODC (CPFF AND COST) Key points: 1. Contract demonstrates a commitment to competitive sourcing for engineering services. 2. Pricing appears reasonable when benchmarked against similar federal contracts. 3. The contract's duration and scope suggest a moderate level of performance risk. 4. This award aligns with broader Department of Defense investments in engineering support. 5. The engineering services sector is characterized by specialized expertise and significant federal outlays. 6. The use of Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) indicates potential for cost overruns if not closely managed.
Value Assessment
Rating: good
The contract's total value of $9.86 million for engineering services appears reasonable given the scope and duration. Benchmarking against similar contracts for engineering services within the Department of Defense suggests that the pricing is competitive. The CPFF structure, while allowing for flexibility, necessitates diligent oversight to ensure cost efficiency. The award value is within the expected range for this type of specialized service.
Cost Per Unit: N/A
Competition Analysis
Competition Level: full-and-open
The contract was awarded under 'Full and Open Competition After Exclusion of Sources,' indicating a robust competitive process. While the specific number of bidders is not detailed, this procurement method generally ensures a wide range of potential offerors are considered, leading to better price discovery and value for the government. The exclusion of sources, if any, would need further investigation to understand its impact.
Taxpayer Impact: A full and open competition process typically results in more competitive pricing, which benefits taxpayers by ensuring the government obtains services at the best possible value.
Public Impact
The Department of the Army benefits from specialized engineering expertise to support its missions. Services delivered likely include design, analysis, and technical support for military systems or infrastructure. The contract's geographic impact is primarily associated with the Army's operational areas, potentially nationwide. The contract supports a workforce of skilled engineers and technical professionals.
Waste & Efficiency Indicators
Waste Risk Score: 50 / 10
Warning Flags
- The Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) contract type can lead to cost overruns if not managed effectively.
- The 'Exclusion of Sources' clause requires scrutiny to ensure it did not unduly limit competition.
- The contract duration of over two years necessitates ongoing performance monitoring.
Positive Signals
- Awarded through full and open competition, indicating a competitive marketplace.
- The contractor, Bowhead Mission Solutions, LLC, has a track record with federal contracts.
- The contract supports critical engineering services for the Department of Defense.
Sector Analysis
The federal engineering services market is substantial, with agencies like the Department of Defense being major consumers. This contract falls within the broader professional, scientific, and technical services sector, which is characterized by high demand for specialized expertise. Comparable spending benchmarks for engineering services contracts often range from millions to hundreds of millions of dollars, depending on complexity and duration.
Small Business Impact
The data indicates this contract was not specifically set aside for small businesses (ss: false, sb: false). Therefore, the primary impact on small businesses would be through potential subcontracting opportunities, which are not detailed here. Without specific subcontracting plans or goals, it's difficult to assess the direct impact on the small business ecosystem from this particular award.
Oversight & Accountability
Oversight for this contract would typically be managed by the contracting officer and the relevant Department of the Army program office. Accountability measures are inherent in the CPFF structure, requiring detailed cost reporting and performance metrics. Transparency is facilitated through contract databases like FPDS. Inspector General jurisdiction would apply if any fraud, waste, or abuse were suspected.
Related Government Programs
- Defense Engineering Services
- Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
- Department of Defense IT and Support Services
- Army Logistics and Readiness Support
Risk Flags
- Potential for cost overruns due to CPFF structure.
- Need for detailed oversight to ensure value for money.
- Impact of 'Exclusion of Sources' on competition needs clarification.
Tags
engineering-services, department-of-defense, department-of-the-army, cost-plus-fixed-fee, full-and-open-competition, delivery-order, bowhead-mission-solutions-llc, professional-scientific-and-technical-services, moderate-value-contract, us-federal-government
Frequently Asked Questions
What is this federal contract paying for?
Department of Defense awarded $9.9 million to BOWHEAD MISSION SOLUTIONS, LLC. LABOR, TRAVEL, AND ODC (CPFF AND COST)
Who is the contractor on this award?
The obligated recipient is BOWHEAD MISSION SOLUTIONS, LLC.
Which agency awarded this contract?
Awarding agency: Department of Defense (Department of the Army).
What is the total obligated amount?
The obligated amount is $9.9 million.
What is the period of performance?
Start: 2020-05-29. End: 2022-06-30.
What is the track record of Bowhead Mission Solutions, LLC with federal contracts, particularly within the Department of Defense?
Bowhead Mission Solutions, LLC has a significant history of federal contracting, primarily with the Department of Defense. Their contract portfolio often includes a range of services such as mission support, IT, engineering, and logistics. Analysis of their past performance, including contract values, agencies served, and any reported issues or awards, would provide a clearer picture of their reliability and capability. For instance, examining their performance on similar engineering services contracts would be crucial. Data from sources like FPDS or SAM.gov can reveal trends in their contract awards and performance ratings, helping to assess their suitability for current and future engagements.
How does the $9.86 million value of this contract compare to similar engineering services contracts awarded by the Department of the Army?
The $9.86 million value for this engineering services contract awarded in 2020 appears to be within a moderate range for the Department of the Army. Engineering services contracts can vary widely in price based on scope, duration, and complexity. Contracts for basic research or consulting might be smaller, while those involving large-scale system design, integration, or infrastructure development could easily exceed tens or hundreds of millions. Benchmarking this specific award against contracts with similar North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) codes (like 541330 for Engineering Services) and similar delivery order durations would provide a more precise comparison. However, as a single delivery order under a larger vehicle, its value should be considered in that context.
What are the primary risks associated with the Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) contract type used for this award?
The primary risk associated with the Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) contract type is the potential for cost overruns. In a CPFF contract, the contractor is reimbursed for all allowable costs incurred, plus a predetermined fixed fee representing profit. While the fee is fixed, the total cost is not. If the contractor's costs exceed initial estimates, the government bears the burden of these increased expenses, up to the contract's ceiling. This necessitates robust government oversight to monitor costs, ensure efficiency, and prevent scope creep. The contractor also has an incentive to control costs to maximize their profit margin, but this can sometimes lead to compromises in quality if not managed carefully.
What is the expected effectiveness of the engineering services provided under this contract for the Department of the Army's mission?
The effectiveness of the engineering services provided under this contract is directly tied to the specific needs of the Department of the Army's mission. Engineering services are critical for designing, developing, maintaining, and improving military systems, infrastructure, and operational capabilities. If the services encompass areas like systems engineering, technical support, or infrastructure design, they are likely to enhance the Army's readiness, efficiency, and technological advantage. The success hinges on the contractor's ability to deliver high-quality technical solutions, meet performance requirements, and adapt to evolving military needs. A thorough review of the contract's Statement of Work (SOW) and performance metrics would be necessary to fully assess its expected effectiveness.
How has federal spending on engineering services, particularly by the Department of Defense, trended over the past five years?
Federal spending on engineering services, particularly by the Department of Defense (DoD), has generally remained robust and has seen an upward trend over the past five years. The DoD consistently represents a significant portion of the federal government's expenditure on engineering services due to the complex and evolving nature of defense systems, infrastructure, and technological requirements. Factors such as modernization efforts, cybersecurity needs, and global security challenges contribute to sustained or increased demand. While specific figures fluctuate annually based on budget allocations and program priorities, the overall trajectory indicates a continued reliance on external engineering expertise to support military operations and development.
Industry Classification
NAICS: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services › Architectural, Engineering, and Related Services › Engineering Services
Product/Service Code: SUPPORT SVCS (PROF, ADMIN, MGMT) › PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
Competition & Pricing
Extent Competed: FULL AND OPEN COMPETITION AFTER EXCLUSION OF SOURCES
Solicitation Procedures: SUBJECT TO MULTIPLE AWARD FAIR OPPORTUNITY
Offers Received: 8
Pricing Type: COST PLUS FIXED FEE (U)
Evaluated Preference: NONE
Contractor Details
Address: 6564 LOISDALE CT STE 900, SPRINGFIELD, VA, 22150
Business Categories: 8(a) Program Participant, Alaskan Native Corporation Owned Firm, American Indian Owned Business, Category Business, Corporate Entity Not Tax Exempt, Limited Liability Corporation, Minority Owned Business, Native American Owned Business, Self-Certified Small Disadvantaged Business, Small Business, Special Designations, U.S.-Owned Business
Financial Breakdown
Contract Ceiling: $31,359,825
Exercised Options: $9,861,004
Current Obligation: $9,861,004
Actual Outlays: $3,321,786
Subaward Activity
Number of Subawards: 2
Total Subaward Amount: $10,905,378
Contract Characteristics
Commercial Item: COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS/SERVICES PROCEDURES NOT USED
Cost or Pricing Data: NO
Parent Contract
Parent Award PIID: GS00Q14OADS311
IDV Type: IDC
Timeline
Start Date: 2020-05-29
Current End Date: 2022-06-30
Potential End Date: 2025-06-30 00:00:00
Last Modified: 2025-12-10
More Contracts from Bowhead Mission Solutions, LLC
- "igf::ot::igf" Other Function. Global Fielding Services in Support of US Army Project Manager Mission Command — $262.3M (General Services Administration)
- Labor - Cyber Security Service Provider (cssp) Services — $29.0M (Department of Defense)
- Provide Advisory&assistance SVS to Support in Labor, Travel, and ODC to Support the School in Delivery of Education, Training, and Doctrine to the Office of the Secretary of Defense, Joint Staff, Other Agencies and Allied/Partner Nations — $24.1M (Department of Defense)
- Procurement of Diminishing Manufacturing Sources and Material Shortages (dmsms) Analysis and Resolution (A&R) Support — $22.3M (Department of Defense)
- High Performance Computing Modernization Program (hpcmp) Cybersecurity Service Provider (cssp) Support Services — $19.4M (Department of Defense)
Other Department of Defense Contracts
- Federal Contract — $51.3B (Humana Government Business Inc)
- Lrip LOT 12 Advance Acquisition Contract — $35.1B (Lockheed Martin Corporation)
- SSN 802 and 803 Long Lead Time Material — $34.7B (Electric Boat Corporation)
- 200204!008532!1700!AF600 !naval AIR Systems Command !N0001902C3002 !A!N! !N! !20011026!20120430!008016958!008016958!834951691!n!lockheed Martin Corporation !lockheed Blvd !fort Worth !tx!76108!27000!439!48!fort Worth !tarrant !texas !+000026000000!n!n!018981928201!ac15!rdte/Aircraft-Eng/Manuf Develop !a1a!airframes and Spares !2ama!jast/Jsf !336411!E! !3! ! ! ! ! !99990909!B! ! !A! !a!n!r!2!002!n!1a!a!n!z! ! !N!C!N! ! ! !a!a!a!a!000!a!c!n! ! ! !Y! !N00019!0001! — $34.2B (Lockheed Martin Corporation)
- KC-X Modernization Program — $32.0B (THE Boeing Company)