Jason Tracy

What an exciting series with big names and big topics! #GovernmentContracting #APEXAccelerator #BIGTECH #GovCon

1

RFI responses are due 14-Aug. The USAF's Counter small-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-sUAS) branch is seeking information on radar, EO/IR camera, and on-the-move (OTM) technologies to combat small UAS threats in Groups 1 & 2. Opportunities for CRG Clients w/ CRG’s SME Advice: 1. Advanced Radar Solutions:   - Advice: Develop radar systems with enhanced detection capabilities for low-altitude, slow-moving UAS in Group 1 and 2 categories.   - Key Differentiator: Providing advanced radar solutions ensures timely detection and response to potential threats, significantly improving airspace security and mission effectiveness. 2. EO/IR Camera Integration:   - Advice: Focus on creating EO/IR camera systems that offer high-resolution imagery and thermal detection to identify and track small UAS effectively.   - Key Differentiator: High-quality EO/IR cameras enable precise target identification and tracking, allowing for effective countermeasures and increasing overall situational awareness. 3. On-the-Move (OTM) Technologies:   - Advice: Design portable and easily deployable OTM systems that can be quickly integrated into existing platforms to counter UAS threats in dynamic environments.   - Key Differentiator: OTM technologies enhance operational flexibility and responsiveness, providing a tactical advantage in rapidly changing threat landscapes. CRG has a proven track record of facilitating client wins & helping manage billions in TCV on USMIL, NATO & federal agency contracts around the world. Leveraging our expertise can help you navigate the complexities of defense procurement, ensuring your innovative solutions meet stringent military requirements and maximize market opportunities. Visit crgroupinc.com or reach out at [email protected]. #IL - #VA - #DC - #Dubai, #UAE. #CRG #USAF #CsUAS #RadarTech #EOIR #OTMTech #SmallUAS #AirDefense #DefenseInnovation #MilitaryTech #DroneDetection #SituationalAwareness #TacticalAdvantage #DefenseContracts #GlobalSecurity #USMilitary #DoD #TechIntegration #RadarSystems #AdvancedImaging #AirForce

2

RFI responses are due 14-Aug. The USAF's Counter small-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-sUAS) branch is seeking information on radar, EO/IR camera, and on-the-move (OTM) technologies to combat small UAS threats in Groups 1 & 2. Opportunities for CRG Clients w/ CRG’s SME Advice: 1. Advanced Radar Solutions: - Advice: Develop radar systems with enhanced detection capabilities for low-altitude, slow-moving UAS in Group 1 and 2 categories. - Key Differentiator: Providing advanced radar solutions ensures timely detection and response to potential threats, significantly improving airspace security and mission effectiveness. 2. EO/IR Camera Integration: - Advice: Focus on creating EO/IR camera systems that offer high-resolution imagery and thermal detection to identify and track small UAS effectively. - Key Differentiator: High-quality EO/IR cameras enable precise target identification and tracking, allowing for effective countermeasures and increasing overall situational awareness. 3. On-the-Move (OTM) Technologies: - Advice: Design portable and easily deployable OTM systems that can be quickly integrated into existing platforms to counter UAS threats in dynamic environments. - Key Differentiator: OTM technologies enhance operational flexibility and responsiveness, providing a tactical advantage in rapidly changing threat landscapes. CRG has a proven track record of facilitating client wins & helping manage billions in TCV on USMIL, NATO & federal agency contracts around the world. Leveraging our expertise can help you navigate the complexities of defense procurement, ensuring your innovative solutions meet stringent military requirements and maximize market opportunities. Visit crgroupinc.com or reach out at [email protected]. #IL - #VA - #DC - #Dubai, #UAE. #CRG #USAF #CsUAS #RadarTech #EOIR #OTMTech #SmallUAS #AirDefense #DefenseInnovation #MilitaryTech #DroneDetection #SituationalAwareness #TacticalAdvantage #DefenseContracts #GlobalSecurity #USMilitary #DoD #TechIntegration #RadarSystems #AdvancedImaging #AirForce

2

Learn more about defense services & military training and ITAR requirements on our blog here: https://lnkd.in/e8_q7Ufx #itar #ear #fms #securitycooperation #exportcontrols #tsfd #techtransfer #nationalsecurity #foreignpolicy #defensetrade #defensetech #defenseindustry #aukus

18

Read our most recent blog post (link in comments) to find out what the Five Things to Know About NSPA's Contracting Process are. Contact Jim Shields ([email protected]) to learn more about how we can help you succeed in the NATO market.

23

3 Comments

Enhance financial management in defense with your software! 👉 https://buff.ly/3Vdm3Ge The DoD Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office is on the hunt for cutting-edge financial planning and analysis (FP&A) software solutions aimed at boosting the DoD's ability to effectively manage AI and ML application testing. Here’s what we need: ✅ Comprehensive Financial Management: Software that offers a detailed view of finances, enables granular budget planning, and allows tracking of budgets against actual expenditures. ✅ Dynamic Scenario Planning: Tools that facilitate "what-if" analyses to help manage complex funding environments and support strategic decision-making. ✅ Integration Capabilities: Solutions must seamlessly interface with existing DoD financial systems to import data and enhance accuracy. ✅ Customizable Dashboards: The ability to create tailored data visualizations that cater to the specific needs of the DoD's program managers. This RFI seeks to address the gap in currently available financial tools that can operate effectively at both the program and portfolio management levels, ensuring robust financial oversight. Empower DoD decision-makers with the tools they need to lead in AI deployment. For details on how to submit your proposal and participate, head to the Tradewinds Solutions Marketplace at tradewindai.com. #DefenseInnovation #FinancialTools #DoD #AIReady #Tradewinds | Keith W. Gibson, CFCM, SCPM | Bonnie Evangelista | Anne Laurent | DoD Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office | Sana U. Hoda | BENJAMIN MCMARTIN | Quentin McCoy | Tattiana Peters | Lori-Ann Rissler | Dolores Kuchina-Musina, Ph.D. | Gage Asper | Stephanie Wilson | Ryan Connell | Savon Thomas | ARI (Applied Research Institute) 

2

The Sentinel ICBM program's cost overruns highlight the need for integrated acquisition strategies that address both missile systems & infrastructure. CRG provides expertise in navigating these complex landscapes, aligning strategies with compliance & engaging stakeholders to ensure clients lead in delivering innovative, cost-effective defense solutions. CRG’s SME-Based Opportunities, INTERIM Advice & Differentiators: Opp - Holistic Acquisition Strategies: Prioritize a balanced approach that integrates missile systems w/ critical infrastructure. · Advice: Use digital engineering tools to simulate full system lifecycles, identifying cost drivers early. · Differentiator: CRG’s lifecycle cost analysis helps clients foresee risks, optimizing missile & infrastructure components. Opp - Open Competition for Infrastructure: Encourage competitive sourcing for infrastructure to drive innovation & cost reductions. · Advice: Advocate for modular design principles & open competition strategies for ground elements. ·   Differentiator: CRG connects clients with top-tier SMEs & suppliers for cost-effective, modular solutions. Opp - Agile Contracting Models: Use agile contracting to adapt to evolving program requirements. ·   Advice: Employ OTAs & phased contracts to incorporate new tech flexibly. ·   Differentiator: CRG’s contracting expertise balances innovation w/ compliance, speeding up project timelines. Opp - Advanced Cost Management: Employ predictive analytics for proactive cost control. ·   Advice: Use AI-driven forecasting to continuously monitor expenses & identify savings opportunities. ·   Differentiator: CRG’s cost optimization strategies ensure clients manage budgets effectively, avoiding overruns. Opp - Digital Twins Integration: Utilize digital twin tech for real-time insights into system performance. · Advice: Invest in digital twins for predictive maintenance & proactive lifecycle management. · Differentiator: CRG’s digital twin integration enhances system reliability & readiness. Opp - Collaborative Engineering: Foster government-industry collaboration to refine designs & address challenges. · Advice: Form IPTs to refine designs & address technical issues iteratively. ·   Differentiator: CRG’s collaborative approach ensures efficient, unified program outcomes. CRG’s expertise positions us as the partner of choice for defense contractors aiming to lead in the program. Engage with CRG to leverage these opportunities and drive your success in advancing national security. Connect at crgroupinc.com or [email protected]. #USAF #AirForce #DoD #Acquisition #MissileDefense #ICBM #CostManagement #InnovationInDefense #Engineering #Hardware #SDLC #Software #Procurement #NorthropGrumman #Boeing #LockheedMartin #Raytheon #GeneralDynamics #BAE #L3Harris #Leidos #Aerojet #Honeywell #Parsons #OrbitalATK #Kratos #Textron #Dynetics #SierraNevada #Teledyne #SAIC #Perspecta #JacobsEngineering #Bechtel #GeneralAtomics #CACI #ManTech #HII

2

Heads Up...DoD News related to Architect - Engineering (AE) Services! (1) FINAL RULE Effective 8/26/2024 - DFARS Case 2024-D019 Architect and Engineering Service Fees. This rule changes DFARS to implement Section 2881 of the FY24 NDAA to increase the limitation of the contract price (i.e., "fee") for A-E services for the preparation and delivery of designs, plans, drawings, and specifications from 6% of the project's estimated construction cost to 10%. It is applicable to Army, Navy, and Air Force projects (references in 10 U.S.C. 7540,8612, and 9540). The new 10% limit replaces the 6% fee limitation on contract modifications for work not initially included in the contract and redesign, and applies only to that portion of the contract (or modification) price attributable to the preparation of designs, plans, drawings, and specifications. If a contract or modification also includes other services, the part of the price attributable to the other services is not subject to the fee limitation. (Personally, I've been waiting since the early 1990's for this percentage to change (and yes, I've been doing this THAT long). This makes it easier for small AE businesses to participate in the Federal space. So, YEA!) Permalink: https://lnkd.in/g7vF95R6 (2) PROPOSED RULE Comments due 9/27/2024 -- DFARS Case 2023-D007 Task Order and Delivery Order Contracting for Architectural and Engineering Services. This rules proposes a corresponding change to DFARS Subpart 216.5, Indefinite-Delivery Contracts, to require DoD Contracting Officers (KOs) to use qualification-based selections when awarding task orders and delivery orders for AE services that was previously implemented procedurally under FAR Subparts 16.500, 16.505, and 36.6 procedures in 2005 under the final rule for FAR Case 2004-001 Improvements in Contracting for Architect-Engineer Services. This proposed rule adds DoD-specific statutory guidance (10 U.S.C. 3406(h)(2)) to DFARS directing KOs not to request additional info regarding qualifications unless necessary to determine qualifications for a particular task order or delivery order under a multiple-award contract. There should be little to no impact from this proposed rule since there are no procedural changes, new clauses or provisions, and no new applicability in terms of thresholds or types of contracts. Permalink: https://lnkd.in/gwh2_38J

5

The DoD CIO is excited to announce the CMMC 32 CFR program rule was released for public inspection today and is expected to be published on Tuesday 15 Oct. This rule streamlines and simplifies the process for small- and medium-sized businesses by reducing the number of assessment levels from the five in the original program to three under the new program. Companies may use cloud service offerings to meet the cybersecurity requirements that must be assessed as part of the CMMC requirement. The DoD CIO would like to thank all the businesses and industry associations that provided input during the public comment period. Improving the cybersecurity of the defense industrial base (DIB) is essential to protecting the products of American ingenuity and the national security information that supports and enables our warfighters. Your input improved the rule and will help improve security of critical information while making it easier for small- and medium-sized businesses to meet their contractual obligations. Read more at: https://lnkd.in/eAgd9SdK #Cybersecurity #DIB #DIBCS #DC3”

1,052

30 Comments

The key to winning an SBIR is simple, yet often just out of reach – a unique idea. Each business area in Government Contracting (GovCon) has its own special way of developing business. Winning repeatably requires understanding the key issues for that type of business. SBIRs are way different than others. Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) grants are solicited from several US Government agencies with DoD being the largest. Each one seeks to take a technology from, roughly, TRL 3 to TRL 5 and do so over two phases – Phase I and Phase II. Phase I can generally be thought of as a paper study of the topic solution with an award up to $250K over a 6 month period. Phase II is where a laboratory prototype is usually built, and they are normally funded at $2.2M. Sometimes there is a Phase II Extension worth another $600K, usually to prepare the technology for transition into a Program of Record, which is the goal for all SBIRs. This is followed by a Phase III, but it has no funding associated with it. The purpose of a Phase III is to allow the company to have a contract vehicle that an early adopter of the technology can use to contract with. The key to winning a SBIR is a unique idea that solves a problem. As simple as it sounds, it is much more difficult in practice. The most likely way to win a SBIR is to generate a topic through a laboratory but to do so you have to have a unique idea that solves a problem. The Government will not fund a solution to a problem they don’t have. About half of the SBIR topics are generated by a company, leaving the other half to Government offices that have no idea how to solve a problem and in need of good ideas.  Your role is to think of a solution. Most proposals will skew to the basic ideas and are thus undifferentiated. One of the several difficulties with SBIRs is getting a solution that fits within the funding limits. SBIRs are designed to finish with a laboratory prototype at TRL5, but what you need for commercialization is a manufacturing prototype at TRL6. That gap is called the “Valley of Death.” Good luck jumping it. What separates successful SBIR programs from unsuccessful ones, is making this jump. The key to that is the commercialization plan from the topic generation phase or the Phase I proposal commercialization plan. The second key problem with SBIRs is that the topic was generated with a specific solution – read “company” - in mind. The Government will award two, and even three contracts for Phase I but that is not really where you want to compete. You cannot make money off Phase I’s and there is little point in trying. To avoid this problem, simply ask the Technical Point of Contact (TPOC) “Where did this topic idea come from.” SBIRs are harder than they appear, but they are some of the best work you can bring in. You can use DoD to develop a product, or at least offset its development costs. They are worth pursuing, just don’t underestimate the amount of work that has to go into it.

3

GovCon -- New DFARS 252.245-7005 clause has some important changes regarding the Management and Reporting of Government Property Take a look at this blogpost to learn more https://zurl.co/jlTW

1

Recently shared by OrangeSlices AI, FedTec secured a $15M US Army Forces Command FCCS Support task on ITES-3S, standing out among 12 bidders, in September. This win highlights our commitment to delivering innovative solutions that address the critical needs of federal agencies. #GovCon #Innovation #ArmySupport #DOD #FedTec U.S. Army Forces Command (FORSCOM)

27

1 Comment

Need a summary of the #CMMC Final Rule? Check out the slide deck below!

3

👉 The Data-Centric Interdependencies that Make Battle Management Happen... Joshua Conine, SAIC’s Director of Space Command and Control (C2) Growth, identifies the key elements in large C2 systems in the U.S. Air Force and Space Force, and how SAIC creates resilient and distributed architectures that support Battle Management. #Sponsored SAIC MORE: https://lnkd.in/gsftgz6f

40

4 Comments

Does the potential rigidity of the IRM&CM process (AJP 2.7) apply to rapidly changing battlespaces? Contemporary warfare demands immediate responsiveness and flexibility, posing challenges to traditional ISR workflows that may take days or weeks to develop. To address this, here are some key actions to enhance ISR capabilities: - **Real-Time Adjustments**: Incorporate mechanisms for real-time adjustments within the IRM&CM process to quickly revise collection plans and re-task ISR assets based on immediate operational needs and intelligence updates. - **Shorter Planning Cycles**: Implement shorter, iterative planning cycles for more frequent updates and revisions to the collection plan. - **Leveraging Advanced Technologies**: Utilize AI, machine learning algorithms, and automation to process data quickly, identify patterns, and provide actionable intelligence in near real-time. Other strategies include empowering field units, establishing forward-deployed ISR cells, investing in real-time communication networks, utilizing integrated command and control systems, and deploying flexible ISR platforms. Additionally, conducting frequent training exercises and scenario-based simulations are vital to prepare ISR personnel for dynamic environments. While the traditional IRM&CM process offers a structured approach to ISR operations, adapting it to the fast-paced nature of contemporary warfare is crucial. These measures can enhance NATO's ISR capabilities, ensuring better support for rapidly changing battlespaces.

10

The Army Contracting Command – Aberdeen Proving Ground (ACC-APG) is continuing to advance its Marketplace for the Acquisition of Professional Services (MAPS) Multiple Award IDIQ with a ceiling of over $50 billion, potentially ten years in duration. This presents an exceptional business opportunity but also significant challenges for potential offerors.   The newly published Draft Sections L&M (W15P7T-25-R-MAPS), the Performance Work Statement (PWS), and ancillary materials explain several concerns. These include unclear evaluation criteria, overly stringent Gate Criteria for Mid-Tier and Small Businesses, and difficulties in differentiating between offerors in the proposed 39-point range. Unfortunately, the Government's Industry Day on 8 November did not satisfactorily answer these or several other questions from industry, so many of these concerns remain unsolved. At GovWionix LLC, our specialty is helping businesses understand the complexity of federal solicitations such as MAPS. Having years of experience and a proven track record of success gives us unparalleled insight into the challenges that the MAPS solicitation poses to prospective offerors. This makes it possible for us to provide necessary support to our clients of all sizes.   By partnering with GovWionix, your company can: Gain a thorough understanding of MAPS solicitation requirements. Develop a winning strategy tailored to this complex competition. Leverage our extensive network and deep industry knowledge for team formation and proposal optimization. Access unparalleled insights into ACC-APG’s processes and evaluation criteria. Our strong track record demonstrates our ability to help clients secure both contract and task order awards across the federal marketplace. Whether you’re a large prime contractor or a small business, we are committed to positioning you for success in the MAPS Multiple Award IDIQ competition.

7

3 Comments