By John J. Kruzel
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 29, 2009 - The Navy secretary yesterday advocated for allowing women to serve on submarines, which would require ending a long-standing ban. "This is something the [chief of naval operations] and I have been working on since I came into office," said Ray Mabus, who was confirmed as the secretary of the Navy in May. "We are moving out aggressively on this.
"I believe women should have every opportunity to serve at sea, and that includes aboard submarines," he told reporters following a tour of Northrop Grumman Corp.'s Newport News shipyard.
Mabus is one of several top Navy officials recently to call for ending a long-standing policy barring women from serving on submarines. Officials have cited a lack of privacy and the cost of reconfiguring subs as obstacles to allowing female crewmembers to serve aboard the vessels.
Navy Adm. Gary Roughead, chief of naval operations, acknowledged that special accommodations would be a factor, but one that's not insurmountable.
"Having commanded a mixed-gender surface combatant, I am very comfortable addressing integrating women into the submarine force," he said in a statement last week. "I am familiar with the issues as well as the value of diverse crews."
Roughead said that he has been personally engaged through the years in the Navy's debate of the feasibility of assigning women to submarines.
"There are some particular issues with integrating women into the submarine force -- issues we must work through in order to achieve what is best for the Navy and our submarine force," he said. "This has had and will continue to have my personal attention as we work toward increasing the diversity of our Navy afloat and ashore."
Navy Adm. Mike Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, addressed the issue with the Senate Armed Services Committee this month.
"I believe we should continue to broaden opportunities for women," Mullen is quoted as saying in response to written questions posed by the Senate Armed Services Committee. "One policy I would like to see changed is the one barring their service aboard submarines."
Mullen, a staunch champion of diversifying the services, said this month that having a military that reflects the demographics of the United States is "a strategic imperative for the security of our country."
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Civilian Employees to Receive Equal Base Salary Increases
By Fred W. Baker III
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 29, 2009 - Defense Department employees paid under the National Security Personnel System will receive the same base salary increases this year as their General Schedule counterparts, a Defense Department official said today. The move comes as senior Defense Department, Office of Personnel Management and White House officials work to determine the future of the troubled pay-for-performance system.
Most under the NSPS last year actually received about the same pay increases as they would have under the general schedule, said Brad Bunn, the Defense Department's executive officer for NSPS. But a report this summer by the Defense Business Board found the system's "pay pool" process complicated and confusing for most employees.
Employees questioned the assessment and evaluation process and didn't understand the pay pool process, Bunn said in at interview at the Pentagon.
Last year, a portion of the money allotted for base-salary increases was placed into the overall pay pool, which is then divided among those in the pool based on performance ratings. This year, no money allotted for base-salary increases will go into the pool, Bunn said.
Employees under the NSPS system who receive a satisfactory performance rating of 2 or higher will receive a salary increase equal to their GS counterparts. Those who receive an unsatisfactory rating of 1 will not receive a base salary increase.
Defense officials felt this was the most "prudent course of action," given the problems reported with the NSPS, Bunn said.
Because most in NSPS received about the same raise as they would have otherwise, this move will not significantly reduce the amount of funds used to reward performance, Bunn said.
"Most employees were getting [an equal pay increase], so paying it out as an across-the-board increase would not have a huge impact on our ability to still recognize and reward those high performers," he said.
Those funds come from pots that were used for step increases, promotions between grades, and cash bonuses under the general schedule. No changes are planned this year in how performance-based awards are paid.
Future changes to the NSPS need to tie an employee's performance rating more clearly to any subsequent salary increase, Bunn said.
"It's about making the system better -- making it more credible for the employees," he said.
About 205,000 of the 865,000 Defense Department civilians are in NSPS. The department stopped the conversion of GS employees to NSPS in March.
The amount of the base salary increase will not be known until the president signs an executive order implementing the 2010 pay adjustment.
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 29, 2009 - Defense Department employees paid under the National Security Personnel System will receive the same base salary increases this year as their General Schedule counterparts, a Defense Department official said today. The move comes as senior Defense Department, Office of Personnel Management and White House officials work to determine the future of the troubled pay-for-performance system.
Most under the NSPS last year actually received about the same pay increases as they would have under the general schedule, said Brad Bunn, the Defense Department's executive officer for NSPS. But a report this summer by the Defense Business Board found the system's "pay pool" process complicated and confusing for most employees.
Employees questioned the assessment and evaluation process and didn't understand the pay pool process, Bunn said in at interview at the Pentagon.
Last year, a portion of the money allotted for base-salary increases was placed into the overall pay pool, which is then divided among those in the pool based on performance ratings. This year, no money allotted for base-salary increases will go into the pool, Bunn said.
Employees under the NSPS system who receive a satisfactory performance rating of 2 or higher will receive a salary increase equal to their GS counterparts. Those who receive an unsatisfactory rating of 1 will not receive a base salary increase.
Defense officials felt this was the most "prudent course of action," given the problems reported with the NSPS, Bunn said.
Because most in NSPS received about the same raise as they would have otherwise, this move will not significantly reduce the amount of funds used to reward performance, Bunn said.
"Most employees were getting [an equal pay increase], so paying it out as an across-the-board increase would not have a huge impact on our ability to still recognize and reward those high performers," he said.
Those funds come from pots that were used for step increases, promotions between grades, and cash bonuses under the general schedule. No changes are planned this year in how performance-based awards are paid.
Future changes to the NSPS need to tie an employee's performance rating more clearly to any subsequent salary increase, Bunn said.
"It's about making the system better -- making it more credible for the employees," he said.
About 205,000 of the 865,000 Defense Department civilians are in NSPS. The department stopped the conversion of GS employees to NSPS in March.
The amount of the base salary increase will not be known until the president signs an executive order implementing the 2010 pay adjustment.
Command Remains Flexible as North Korean Threat Changes
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 29, 2009 - The North Korean threat is changing and the response to the nation's provocations must change too, the commander of Combined Forces Korea said here today. Army Gen. Walter Sharp, who also commands U.S. Forces Korea, spoke to reporters of the Defense Writers Group.
North Korean dictator Kim Jong-il is in charge in the country – for good and bad, Sharp said. After a year of reports on his health and questions on potential succession, the general said, the despot still is in command. The nuclear tests, the missile shots, the release of the American journalists and family reunions between North and South Korea all indicate that "the Dear Leader" is in charge, he noted.
"We have seen him out in public many more times this year," the general said. "Part of that is he wants to prove that he is in charge to his people. He has some paralysis of one arm and seems to be in decent health, but he is in charge and moving around."
North Korea maintains a large, though aging, conventional force. The nation is concentrating on developing missile technology, enlarging special operations forces and perfecting nuclear weapons. "What we're really looking at is the capability to defend against that missile threat," Sharp said. "We're working on Patriot missile systems and defending against that threat."
U.S. and South Korean forces are working hard to learn the lessons of Iraq and Afghanistan on improvised explosive devices and other types of weapons the North Koreans are developing. "Their [special operations forces] capability is really very large, and they will use these tactics," he said.
Combating the nuclear weapons threat is a priority, but the general would say only that his command is working with others in the U.S. military on capabilities to counter weapons of mass destruction.
North Korea also is looking at cyber warfare. "The North Koreans probably realize that they could not win in an all-out conventional attack to reunify the peninsula by force," Sharp said. "With our capability and the Republic of Korea capability, that's a nonstarter." Instead, he added, North Korea is looking at other vital nodes they can hold at risk, and asymmetric warfare is a possibility.
In addition to the main battle plan, Sharp's command is looking at other likely scenarios involving North Korea. These run from refugee problems because of famine or internal struggles. "In every case, we have to be prepared to defend South Korea," he said.
For the leaders in North Korea to hang on to power, they must convince the population that threats exist to the nation and that the military is the only solution. "It's really a shame, because if Kim looked for other ways [to face the threats], the rest of the world would help North Korea," Sharp said.
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 29, 2009 - The North Korean threat is changing and the response to the nation's provocations must change too, the commander of Combined Forces Korea said here today. Army Gen. Walter Sharp, who also commands U.S. Forces Korea, spoke to reporters of the Defense Writers Group.
North Korean dictator Kim Jong-il is in charge in the country – for good and bad, Sharp said. After a year of reports on his health and questions on potential succession, the general said, the despot still is in command. The nuclear tests, the missile shots, the release of the American journalists and family reunions between North and South Korea all indicate that "the Dear Leader" is in charge, he noted.
"We have seen him out in public many more times this year," the general said. "Part of that is he wants to prove that he is in charge to his people. He has some paralysis of one arm and seems to be in decent health, but he is in charge and moving around."
North Korea maintains a large, though aging, conventional force. The nation is concentrating on developing missile technology, enlarging special operations forces and perfecting nuclear weapons. "What we're really looking at is the capability to defend against that missile threat," Sharp said. "We're working on Patriot missile systems and defending against that threat."
U.S. and South Korean forces are working hard to learn the lessons of Iraq and Afghanistan on improvised explosive devices and other types of weapons the North Koreans are developing. "Their [special operations forces] capability is really very large, and they will use these tactics," he said.
Combating the nuclear weapons threat is a priority, but the general would say only that his command is working with others in the U.S. military on capabilities to counter weapons of mass destruction.
North Korea also is looking at cyber warfare. "The North Koreans probably realize that they could not win in an all-out conventional attack to reunify the peninsula by force," Sharp said. "With our capability and the Republic of Korea capability, that's a nonstarter." Instead, he added, North Korea is looking at other vital nodes they can hold at risk, and asymmetric warfare is a possibility.
In addition to the main battle plan, Sharp's command is looking at other likely scenarios involving North Korea. These run from refugee problems because of famine or internal struggles. "In every case, we have to be prepared to defend South Korea," he said.
For the leaders in North Korea to hang on to power, they must convince the population that threats exist to the nation and that the military is the only solution. "It's really a shame, because if Kim looked for other ways [to face the threats], the rest of the world would help North Korea," Sharp said.
Korean Tour Normalization Benefits Families, U.S. Interests
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 29, 2009 - Tour normalization in South Korea will benefit U.S. servicemembers and their families and also assure Asian allies of American commitment to the region, the commander of combined and U.S. forces in Korea said here today. Army Gen. Walter Sharp told members of the Defense Writers Group that making South Korea an accompanied three-year tour for servicemembers also will pay off with greater capabilities for U.S. and South Korean forces.
Sharp said the process should have started a decade ago. "We had to get to the point in Korea where we were comfortable with the quality of life and comfortable with the situation on the ground," he said.
Sharp's predecessor, Army Gen. B.B. Bell, briefed Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates in April 2008 on the process. "It was clear to [Gates] that it was time to move on and to make Korea stationing just like Germany and Japan," Sharp said.
Having troops for three years rather than one year increases unit capabilities and saves money in not having to train new people each year, Sharp said. "It greatly reduces the stress on families, because why have an unaccompanied tour if you don't need to?" he added.
The change also shows U.S. commitment to Northeastern Asia beyond the date South Korea takes operational control of forces there.
"One of the fears you hear on operational control transition on April 17, 2012, is what is the U.S. going to do on April 18, 2012? Are you out of here?" Sharp said. But the presence of families shows America is in for the long haul. It stresses the fact that the United States believes the peninsula and the region is a vital national interest.
The process will take some time. U.S. and Korean officials are working together to ensure the facilities are in place as families move to the "Land of the Morning Calm." In August 2008, about 1,700 U.S. command-sponsored families were in Korea. "This summer we were up to about 3,000," Sharp said, adding that the number is expected to grow to about 4,800 to 4,900 command-sponsored families by this time next year.
When everything is in place and when construction is finished at Camp Humphries, the command will increase the number of command-sponsored tours to 14,000 families, which is how many of the 28,500 servicemembers assigned to Korea are married, Sharp said.
The command is using three sources of money: Korean, public-private ventures and U.S. military construction.
Sharp said the country is safe and that intelligence would allow officials to order a noncombatant evacuation if circumstances warranted it. He compared the situation to that in Germany during the 1980s, with American families living in the shadow of the fence between East and West Germany.
"The troops tell me they want to bring their families, and they want to be in Korea for more than a year, especially those who are there and who see the professional and personal opportunities," he said.
South Korea is one of the richest countries in the world. The crime rate is low, and the facilities are good, Sharp said. And families are coming anyway, with many servicemembers paying to bring their families without command sponsorship. The latest figures show 1,600 families are living in Korea without command sponsorship.
"They are the ones who say, 'I am not going to spend another year apart. We do that enough in Iraq and Afghanistan,'" Sharp said. These families receive a partial housing allowance and live on the economy. They receive medical care.
"The majority of servicemembers still think Korea is like 'MASH,'" he said, referring to the television program set during the Korean War. "They think there are dirt roads in Korea. It's not like that, and the word is starting to get out."
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 29, 2009 - Tour normalization in South Korea will benefit U.S. servicemembers and their families and also assure Asian allies of American commitment to the region, the commander of combined and U.S. forces in Korea said here today. Army Gen. Walter Sharp told members of the Defense Writers Group that making South Korea an accompanied three-year tour for servicemembers also will pay off with greater capabilities for U.S. and South Korean forces.
Sharp said the process should have started a decade ago. "We had to get to the point in Korea where we were comfortable with the quality of life and comfortable with the situation on the ground," he said.
Sharp's predecessor, Army Gen. B.B. Bell, briefed Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates in April 2008 on the process. "It was clear to [Gates] that it was time to move on and to make Korea stationing just like Germany and Japan," Sharp said.
Having troops for three years rather than one year increases unit capabilities and saves money in not having to train new people each year, Sharp said. "It greatly reduces the stress on families, because why have an unaccompanied tour if you don't need to?" he added.
The change also shows U.S. commitment to Northeastern Asia beyond the date South Korea takes operational control of forces there.
"One of the fears you hear on operational control transition on April 17, 2012, is what is the U.S. going to do on April 18, 2012? Are you out of here?" Sharp said. But the presence of families shows America is in for the long haul. It stresses the fact that the United States believes the peninsula and the region is a vital national interest.
The process will take some time. U.S. and Korean officials are working together to ensure the facilities are in place as families move to the "Land of the Morning Calm." In August 2008, about 1,700 U.S. command-sponsored families were in Korea. "This summer we were up to about 3,000," Sharp said, adding that the number is expected to grow to about 4,800 to 4,900 command-sponsored families by this time next year.
When everything is in place and when construction is finished at Camp Humphries, the command will increase the number of command-sponsored tours to 14,000 families, which is how many of the 28,500 servicemembers assigned to Korea are married, Sharp said.
The command is using three sources of money: Korean, public-private ventures and U.S. military construction.
Sharp said the country is safe and that intelligence would allow officials to order a noncombatant evacuation if circumstances warranted it. He compared the situation to that in Germany during the 1980s, with American families living in the shadow of the fence between East and West Germany.
"The troops tell me they want to bring their families, and they want to be in Korea for more than a year, especially those who are there and who see the professional and personal opportunities," he said.
South Korea is one of the richest countries in the world. The crime rate is low, and the facilities are good, Sharp said. And families are coming anyway, with many servicemembers paying to bring their families without command sponsorship. The latest figures show 1,600 families are living in Korea without command sponsorship.
"They are the ones who say, 'I am not going to spend another year apart. We do that enough in Iraq and Afghanistan,'" Sharp said. These families receive a partial housing allowance and live on the economy. They receive medical care.
"The majority of servicemembers still think Korea is like 'MASH,'" he said, referring to the television program set during the Korean War. "They think there are dirt roads in Korea. It's not like that, and the word is starting to get out."
General Cites Importance of Northeastern Asia
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 29, 2009 - Northeastern Asia is an area of vital national interest to the United States, and American troops stand ready to defend the region, the commander of combined and U.S. forces in Korea said today. Army Gen. Walter Sharp said during a Defense Writers Group breakfast today that he has three priorities on the peninsula.
The first is the same as it has been since the Korean War Armistice was signed in 1953: to be prepared to fight and win a war against North Korea. The command continually updates the war plan, and conducts exercises to be prepared for an all-out invasion of South Korea by North Korea.
"We're in very good shape with that war plan," Sharp said. "Being prepared to fight and win is also about being able to combat instability and preparing for other provocations by North Korea."
Sharp's second priority is to strengthen the alliance. The South Korean will take operational control of forces on the peninsula on April 17, 2012. "They will command the war fight," he said. The command is working to ensure all systems and plans are in place for that date.
Sharp's third priority is to maintain the quality of life for U.S. servicemembers, Defense Department civilians and their families. This includes taking care of the facilities and pushing along tour normalization, which will allow servicemembers to bring families to South Korea for serve three-year tours. "We can be set up just like Germany and Japan," Sharp said.
Planners look at every eventuality, and U.S. officials are working with South Korean counterparts to put in place – and then exercise – the organizations needed for greater South Korean control, Sharp said. At the same time, the current mission to respond and deter North Korean threats remains.
Using "ROK," the acronym for Republic of Korea, South Korea's official name, Sharp outlined that work ahead. "The biggest task is to make sure we have the command and control picture in place," Sharp said. "I am confident from a military perspective that the ROK military and the U.S. military will be ready to do operational control transition to the ROK military on 17 April 2012. I think it sends the right signal to North Korea. The ROK military is an extremely strong, well-armed and well-trained military."
Sharp said he is also looking to the future. Part of the Quadrennial Defense Review – due to Congress in January – will look at what will be needed in Korea in 20 years. "The QDR asks questions like what forces do you need to deter? What forces do you need to be able to rapidly execute current and future war plans? What forces do you need to regionally engage? What forces do you need to globally deploy?" the general said.
All this entails judgments about American forces, the growth of South Korean forces, likely scenarios in North Korea and other strategic inputs. One constant is that U.S. and South Korean forces will continue to work together closely, he said.
And the whole world will be watching.
"All of the things North Korea has done in the last year – the nuclear tests, missile tests and so on – have united the world in opposition to the North Korean behavior," Sharpe said. "It is much more difficult for them to move money and technology around."
The same is true for imports, with few countries willing to defy the United Nations and the will of the international community, he said.
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 29, 2009 - Northeastern Asia is an area of vital national interest to the United States, and American troops stand ready to defend the region, the commander of combined and U.S. forces in Korea said today. Army Gen. Walter Sharp said during a Defense Writers Group breakfast today that he has three priorities on the peninsula.
The first is the same as it has been since the Korean War Armistice was signed in 1953: to be prepared to fight and win a war against North Korea. The command continually updates the war plan, and conducts exercises to be prepared for an all-out invasion of South Korea by North Korea.
"We're in very good shape with that war plan," Sharp said. "Being prepared to fight and win is also about being able to combat instability and preparing for other provocations by North Korea."
Sharp's second priority is to strengthen the alliance. The South Korean will take operational control of forces on the peninsula on April 17, 2012. "They will command the war fight," he said. The command is working to ensure all systems and plans are in place for that date.
Sharp's third priority is to maintain the quality of life for U.S. servicemembers, Defense Department civilians and their families. This includes taking care of the facilities and pushing along tour normalization, which will allow servicemembers to bring families to South Korea for serve three-year tours. "We can be set up just like Germany and Japan," Sharp said.
Planners look at every eventuality, and U.S. officials are working with South Korean counterparts to put in place – and then exercise – the organizations needed for greater South Korean control, Sharp said. At the same time, the current mission to respond and deter North Korean threats remains.
Using "ROK," the acronym for Republic of Korea, South Korea's official name, Sharp outlined that work ahead. "The biggest task is to make sure we have the command and control picture in place," Sharp said. "I am confident from a military perspective that the ROK military and the U.S. military will be ready to do operational control transition to the ROK military on 17 April 2012. I think it sends the right signal to North Korea. The ROK military is an extremely strong, well-armed and well-trained military."
Sharp said he is also looking to the future. Part of the Quadrennial Defense Review – due to Congress in January – will look at what will be needed in Korea in 20 years. "The QDR asks questions like what forces do you need to deter? What forces do you need to be able to rapidly execute current and future war plans? What forces do you need to regionally engage? What forces do you need to globally deploy?" the general said.
All this entails judgments about American forces, the growth of South Korean forces, likely scenarios in North Korea and other strategic inputs. One constant is that U.S. and South Korean forces will continue to work together closely, he said.
And the whole world will be watching.
"All of the things North Korea has done in the last year – the nuclear tests, missile tests and so on – have united the world in opposition to the North Korean behavior," Sharpe said. "It is much more difficult for them to move money and technology around."
The same is true for imports, with few countries willing to defy the United Nations and the will of the international community, he said.
MILITARY CONTRACTS September 29, 2009
DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY
Rio Grande Electric Cooperative Inc., Brackettville, Texas, is being awarded a maximum $72,867,150 firm fixed price prospective redetermination contract for ownership, operation and maintenance of electric distribution system at Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas. Other location of performance is Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas. Using service is Air Force. The original proposal was Web solicited with one response. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is December 2060. The contracting activity is the Defense Energy Support Center, Fort Belvoir, Va., (SP0600-09-C-8258).
Impact Instrumentation Inc., West Caldwell, N.J.*, is being awarded a maximum $45,946,344 firm fixed price contract for suction apparatus model. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and federal civilian agencies. The original proposal was Web solicited with one response. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is Sept. 28, 2010. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa., (SPM2D1-09-D-8019).
Zoll Medical Corp., Chelmsford, Mass., is being awarded a maximum $29,830,740 firm fixed price contract for Airworthy CCT Defibrillators. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and federal civilian agencies. The original proposal was Web solicited with three responses. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is Sept. 29, 2010. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa., (SPM2D1-09-D-8017).
Phillips Healthcare, Andover, Mass., is being awarded a maximum $26, 602, 871 firm fixed price contract for Airworthy HeartStart MRx Defibrillators. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and federal civilian agencies. The original proposal was Web solicited with three responses. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is Sept. 28, 2010. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa., (SPM2D1-09-D-8018).
Camel Manufacturing Co., Pioneer, Tenn.*, is being awarded a maximum $14,259,565 firm fixed price, total set aside, sole source contract for modular general purpose tent system. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There was originally one proposal solicited with one response. The date of performance completion is Feb. 28, 2011. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa., (SPM1C1-09-C-0028).
BAE Systems/Rockwell-Collins Data Link Solutions, Cedar Rapids, Iowa is being awarded a maximum $6,427,850 firm fixed price, sole source contract for interface units for Link16/Joint Tactical Information Distribution Systems. There are no other locations of performance. Using service is Air Force. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There was originally one proposal solicited with one response. The date of performance completion is August 2011. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Richmond, Robins AFB, Ga., (SPRWA1-09-C-0036).
World Wide Technologies, St. Louis, Mo., is being awarded a maximum $6,073,395 firm fixed price contract for support of hardware and software updates. Other locations of performance are Ohio and California. Using service is Defense Automated Address Systems Center. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were originally 38 proposals solicited with three responses. The date of performance completion is Oct. 31, 2009.Defense Logistics Agency, Philadelphia, Pa., (SP4701-09-A-0012).
AIR FORCE
McDonnell Douglas Corp., of Long Beach, Calif., was awarded a $52,682,274 contract will provide for modification to the C-17 Globemaster III sustainment partnership contract to procure large aircraft spare parts such as aircraft tails and cargo ramps. At this time, the entire amount has been obligated. 516 AESG/SYK, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio is the contracting activity (FA8614-04-C-2004,P00323).
Spectrum Communications, Inc., of Newport News, Va., was awarded a $49,980,000 contract which will identify, analyze and apply leading edge technologies to satisfy Air Force Global Cyberspace Integration Center innovation and experimentation requirements. At this time, $1,000,000 has been obligated. AFRL/RIKD, Rome New York is the contracting activity (FA8750-09-D-0017).
L-3 Communications Integrated Systems, LP, of Greenville, Texas was awarded a $11,928,055 contract which will exercise option one of the contract in support of the mission communication systems encompassing United States Air Force unique communication systems. At this time, no money has been obligated. 727 ACSG/PKB, Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma is the contracting activity (FA8106-08-C-0005,P00021).
Centauri Solution, LLC of Alexandria, Va., was awarded a $11,750,000 contract which will demonstrate the operational feasibility and military effectiveness of integrating an advanced lightweight high definition electro-infrared sensor with an unintentional electromagnetic emissions sensor system on an autonomous vertical take-off and landing unmanned aerial vehicle. At this time the entire amount has been obligated. AFRL/RIKD, Rome, New York is the contracting activity (FA8750-09-C-0211).
Lockheed Martin Corp., Fort Worth, Texas, was awarded a $10,991,217 contract which will provide field team support at various bases to support the F-22 fleet. At this time the entire amount has been obligated. 573 AESS/SYK, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Nebraska is the contracting activity (FA8611-08-C-2897,P00033).
Alenia North America, Incorporated of Washington, District of Columbia was awarded a $7,118,653 contract to provide for the acquisition of 18 refurbished G222 aircraft to support the Afghan National Army Air Corps. At this time, the entire amount has been obligated. 330 ACSG/GFKA, Robins Air Force Base, Ga., is the contracting activity (FA8504-08-C-0007,P00002).
NAVY
The ITT Advanced Engineering & Sciences Division, Alexandria, Va., is being awarded $35,802,804 to provide Reentry Systems Technical Support Services for Base Year FY10 and Option Year FY11 and Option Year FY12. These services will include system assessment & vulnerability, reentry systems applications programs, weapon system refurbishment programs, declassification review program, SP274 support, and SP20/200 support. Work will be performed in Colorado Springs, Colo., (38.32 percent); Arlington, Va., (32.63 percent); Washington, D.C., (25.49 precent); Albuquerque, N.M., (2.03 percent); Omaha, Neb., (1.50 percent), and Alexandria, Va., (.03 percent); and work is expected to be completed Sept. 30, 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The contract was not competitively procured. The Navy's Strategic Systems Programs Arlington, Va., is the contracting activity (N00030-10-C-0014).
Chugach Industries*, Anchorage, Alaska, is being awarded $30,561,782 modification under a previously awarded firm-fixed price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract (N44255-05-D-7100) to exercise option #4 for base operations support services in the Navy Region Northwest, North Sound area. The total contract amount after exercise of this option will be $145,291,808. Work will be performed at various installations in the Navy Region Northwest area of responsibility, and work is expected to be completed Sept. 30, 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Northwest, Silverdale, Wash., is the contracting activity.
IAP–Hill, LLC (a joint venture), Cape Canaveral, Fla., is being awarded a $27,638,906 modification under a previously awarded firm-fixed price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract (N62467-00-D-2451) to exercise option 9 for regional base operations support services at Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Naval Station Mayport, and the surrounding southeast region. The work to be performed provides for, but is not limited to, scheduled maintenance of base facilities, utilities, environmental, transportation and fire alarm systems. The total contract amount after exercise of this option will be $526,086,645. Work will be performed in Jacksonville, Fla., and the surrounding southeast region, and is expected to be completed by Sept. 2010. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southeast, Jacksonville, Fla., is the contracting activity.
Walbridge Aldinger, Detroit, Mich., is being awarded a $26,702,919 firm-fixed-price contract for construction of a Dynamic Component Rebuild Facility at the Corpus Christi Army Depot at Naval Air Station Corpus Christi. The work to be performed provides for the surveying, grading, layout, and construction of a new wide span, high bay facility housing test cells and equipment for the dynamic components aviation assembly facility supporting the U.S. Army Helicopter Repair Depot. Work will be performed in Corpus Christi, Texas, and is expected to be completed in May 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the Navy Electronic Commerce Online website, with nine proposals received. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southeast, Jacksonville, Fla., is the contracting activity (N69450-09-C-0758).
Northrop Grumman Systems Corp., Sperry Marine, Charlottesville, Va., is being awarded a $20,912,878 firm-fixed-price contract for the production and delivery of eight AN/BPS-16(v)5 Radar sets to be installed upon Virginia Class Block III submarines SSN 784 through SSN 791. The AN/BPS-16 series radars are submarine class A, X-band systems that provide navigation surface surveillance. These radars include the Voyage Management System, which provides electronic chart display information systems-Navy capabilities. Effort under this contract includes the manufacturing, fabrication, assembly, and necessary testing. Work will be performed in Charlottesville, Va., and is expected to be completed by November 2016. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity (N00024-09-C-5304).
Hawaiian Dredging Construction Co., Inc., Honolulu, Hawaii, is being awarded an $18,956,000 firm-fixed price contract for design and construction of a child development center at Naval Station Pearl Harbor. The work to be performed provides for training rooms and activity rooms for infants, pre-toddlers, toddlers, and pre-schoolers. The project includes an administration building and a building for kitchen, laundry and storage. Playground areas will be developed with appropriate playground equipment and playground surface. This project includes the creation of parking and driveway designed to provide a safe covered drop-off/pickup area and a driveway long enough for cars waiting for drop-off/pickup to prevent congestion on the street. Off-base access will be available only for pedestrian traffic; guard shack will be manned by security personnel when pedestrian access is open. Work will be performed in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, and is expected to be completed by Oct. 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the Navy Electronic Commerce Online website with nine proposals received. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Pacific, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, is the contracting activity (N62742-09-C-1311).
Tomco Corp.*, Honolulu, Hawaii, is being awarded an $18,475,900 firm-fixed price contract for design and construction of an advanced radar detection laboratory at Pacific Missile Range Facility. Work will be performed in Kauai, Hawaii, and is expected to be completed by Aug. 2011. The contract also contains one unexercised option, which if exercised would increase the cumulative contract value to $18,481,600. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the Navy Electronic Commerce Online website with 10 proposals received. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Pacific, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, is the contracting activity (N62742-09-C-1309).
John C. Grimberg Co., Inc., Rockville, Md., 20852 is being awarded a $17,520,000 firm-fixed price contract for design and construction of an autonomous research laboratory at the Naval Research Laboratory. Work will be performed in Wash., D.C., and is expected to be completed by Mar. 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the Navy Electronic Commerce Online website, with nine proposals received. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Washington, Wash., D.C., is the contracting activity (N40080-09-C-0023).
Peoples Gas, Tampa, Fla., is being awarded $17,267,715 for firm-fixed-price task order #0007 under a previously awarded basic ordering agreement (N69450-07-G-0089) for energy conservation measures in over 30 commander, Navy Installations Command buildings at Naval Air Station Jacksonville. Work will be performed in Jacksonville, Fla., and is expected to be completed by Nov. 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. One proposal was received for this task order. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southeast, Jacksonville, Fla., is the contracting activity.
Walton Construction Co., LLC, Dallas, Texas, was awarded on Sept, 28, 2009, $15,180,000 for firm-fixed price task order #0011 under a previously awarded multiple award construction contract (N62467-05-D-0184) for design and construction of a security forces complex at Barksdale Air Force Base. The facility will include spaces for administration, control center, jail, armory, supply, classrooms, and vehicle maintenance. Work will be performed in Shreveport, La., and is expected to be completed by Feb. 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Four proposals were received for this task order. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southeast Jacksonville, Fla., is the contracting activity.
Sierra Nevada Corp., Sparks, Nev., is being awarded a $14,166,934 firm-fixed-price cost-plus-fixed-fee, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for the procurement of the Transmitting Set, Countermeasures (TSC) AN/PLT-5 to support joint services explosive ordnance disposal (JSEOD) personnel. JSEOD forces have a requirement for man-portable equipment and support for the JSEOD Counter Radio Controlled Improvised Explosive Device Electronic Warfare (CREW) program. The JSEOD CREW program provides all military EOD services with an electronic warfare capability to counter the threat from improvised explosive devices. The JSEOD CREW systems protect EOD forces of all services, including those currently located in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, Afghanistan. This contract combines purchases for the Navy (72 percent), Air Force (24 percent) and Army (4 percent). Work will be performed in Sparks, Nev., and is expected to be completed by September 2010. Contract funds in the amount of $4,602,344 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Surface Warfare Center, Indian Head Division, Indian Head, Md. is the contracting activity (N00174-09-D-0003).
KIRA Inc., Miami, Fla., is being awarded a $12,525,421 modification to previously awarded firm-fixed price, indefinite-delivery contract (N69272-03-D-1010) to exercise option 1 for regional base operations support services at Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Naval Station Mayport, and the surrounding southeast region. The work to be performed provides for, but is not limited to, scheduled maintenance of grounds maintenance, pest control, refuse, janitorial and fire alarm system maintenance. The total contract amount after exercise of this option will be $69,291,711. Work will be performed in Jacksonville, Fla., and the surrounding southeast region, with work expected to be completed Sept. 30, 2010. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southeast, Jacksonville, Fla., is the contracting activity.
Bulltrack/Watts II, A Joint Venture*, Bremerton, Wash., was awarded on Sept, 28, 2009, $10,815,000 firm-fixed-price contract to replace the water distribution system at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island. Work will be performed in Oak Harbor, Wash., and is expected to be completed by Sept. 2011. Funds for this project are provided by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the Navy Electronic Commerce Online website, with seven proposals received. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Northwest, Silverdale, Wash., is the contracting activity (N44255-09-C-7003).
Amatea/Grimberg, joint venture*, Leesburg, Va., is being awarded a $10,574,419 firm-fixed-price contract for the Energetics Systems and Technology Laboratory Complex Indian Head Division at Naval Surface Warfare Center. The multi-story facility consists of weapons and engineering laboratory space, inert work space, and secure compartmented information facilities. Supporting Facilities include information systems, computer flooring, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, fire protection and alarm systems, plumbing, electrical power distribution, lighting, utility development, and intrusion detection system. Work will be performed in Indian Head, Md., and is expected to be completed by Mar. 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the Navy Electronic Commerce Online website, with five proposals received. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Washington, Wash., D.C., is the contracting activity (N40080-09-C-0171).
Harper Construction Co., Inc., San Diego, Calif., is being awarded $10,538,675 for firm-fixed-price task order #0002 for design and construction of a child development center at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton. The new facility, located in the De Luz housing area, will include classrooms, administrative offices, library, storage, equipment for food service, and laundry areas. Site features will include five playground areas with equipment, shade structure and protective ground covering, exterior child protection fencing, exterior site and building lighting, paved parking, sidewalks, ramps, permanent signs, landscaping, and automatic irrigation system. Work will be performed in Oceanside, Calif., and is expected to be completed by Jan. 2010. Funds for this project are provided by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Six proposals were received for this task order. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southwest, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity (N62473-08-D-8617).
ESCAB Enterprises Inc.*, Gaithersburg, Md., was awarded on Sept, 28, 2009, $9,799,841 modification under a previously awarded firm-fixed price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract (contract number N40080-05-D-0423) to exercise option 4 for regional janitorial services at various locations within a 100-mile radius of the Washington Navy Yard. The total contract amount after exercise of this option will be $22,263,715. Work will be performed at the U.S. Naval Observatory, Washington, D.C.; National Naval Medical Center, Bethesda, Md.; Naval Reserve Center (Baltimore Fort McHenry), Baltimore, Md.; Naval Surface Warfare Center, Dahlgren, Va.; Indian Head Division Naval Surface Warfare Center, Indian Head, Md.; Naval Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technical Division, Stump Neck, Md.; Naval Research Labs, Pomonkey, Md.; Naval Research Labs, Blossom Point, Md.; Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Patuxent River, Md.; Webster Field, St. Inigoes, Md.; Solomons Annex, Solomons, Md.; Naval Surface Warfare Center, Carderock, West Bethesda, Md.; Marine Corps Readiness Center, Baltimore, Md.; and Chesapeake Bay Detachment, Chesapeake Beach, Md., and work is expected to be Sept. 30, 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Washington, Wash., D.C., is the contracting activity.
Navmar Applied Sciences Corp.*, Warminster, Pa., is being awarded a $9,238,113 modification to a previously awarded cost-plus-fixed-fee contract (N68335-08-C-0470) to provide additional funding for continued work on Phase III Small Business Innovation Research projects N92-170 and N94-178, entitled "Laser Detection & Ranging (LADAR) Identification/Air Deployed Sensors" and " Air Deployed, Expendable, Multi-Parameter Environmental Probe", respectively. This effort will transition the technologies developed into near-term and long-term advanced surveillance, reconnaissance, and force protection. Work will be performed in Patuxent River, Md. (30 percent); Yuma, Ariz. (25 percent); Warminster, Pa. (20 percent) and various OCONUS locations (25 percent), and is expected to be completed in September 2011. Contract funds in the amount of 100,000 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, Lakehurst, N.J., is the contracting activity.
Parsons Infrastructure & Technology Group Inc., Pasadena, Calif., is being awarded $8,428,803 for firm-fixed price task order #EFE4 under the previously awarded SEAPORT-E multiple award contract (N00178-05-D-4487) for professional support services at various Marine Corp installations. The work to be performed provides for facility inventory, inspections and data entry using builder engineered management system. Work will be performed at Marine Corps Base (MCB) Quantico, Quantico, Va., Marine Corps Air Facility Quantico, Quantico, Va., Marine Corps Logistic Base Albany, Albany, Ga., Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Cherry Point, Cherry Point, N.C., MCAS New River, Jacksonville, N.C., Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, Parris Island, S.C., MCB Camp Pendleton, Oceanside, Calif., and MCB Camp Lejeune, Jacksonville, N.C., and is expected to be completed by Sept. 2010. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Three proposals were received for this task order. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southwest, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity.
ITT Corporation, Roanoke, Va., is being awarded an $8,426,000 firm-fixed-price contract for 16 mm panoramic night vision goggle tubes, to be used with the Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System program. Work will be performed in Roanoke, Va., and is expected to be completed by October 2011. Contract funds in the amount of $7,660,000 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Ind. is the contracting activity (N00164-09-C-JQ83).
Armor Group North America Inc., McLean, Va., is being awarded an $8,073,841 modification under a previously awarded firm-fixed price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract (N33191-07-D-1357) to exercise option 2 for provision of security guard services at Naval Support Activity Bahrain. The total contract amount after exercise of this option will be $19,614,476. This contract also contains two additional unexercised option periods, which if exercised, would increase cumulative contract value to $36,790,529. Work will be performed primarily in Bahrain (93 percent) and United Arab Emirates (7 percent), and work is expected to be completed Sept. 30, 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Europe and Southwest Asia, Manama, Bahrain, is the contracting activity.
Halbert Construction, Inc.*, El Cajon, Calif., was awarded on Sept, 28, 2009, $7,788,014 for firm-fixed-price task order #0005 under a previously awarded multiple award construction contract (N62473-09-D-1615) for the design and construction of a new education center and lifelong learning center at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms. The contract also contains a planned modification, which if issued would increase cumulative contract value to $8,736,014. Work will be performed in Twentynine Palms, Calif., and is expected to be completed by Apr. 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Six proposals were received for this task order. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southwest, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity.
DRS C3 Systems, Inc., doing business as DRS Technologies, Gaithersburg, Md., is being awarded a $7,147,412 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for the Common Signal Processor Technology Demonstrator. This effort focuses on the development of general purpose, open-architecture, signal processing solutions that will satisfy not only the needs of the closely related C-Band Active Array Radar program, but also be scalable and capable of serving as a common signal processor for application to other radars, both under development and legacy. Work will be performed in Gaithersburg, Md., and work is expected to be completed September 2011. Contract funds in the amount of $3,863,350 will expire at end of current fiscal year. The contract was procured under Broad Agency Announcement 09-001 Contract N00014-09-C-0462 which was electronically issued via the internet, the number of potential offerors who received this solicitation is not available, the number of awards made was one. Office of Naval Research Arlington, Va., is the contracting activity (N00014-09-C-0462)
Raytheon Co., Tucson, Ariz., is being awarded a $6,966,676 modification to a previously awarded contract (N00024-07-C-5361) for R&D Level of effort engineering and technical services to support the standard missile program. This ceiling increase is to permit the continuation of several ongoing efforts which include prototype design, development integration and testing. Work will be performed in Tucson, Ariz. and is expected to be completed by December 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington Navy Yard, D.C., is the contracting activity.
Head, Inc.*, Columbus, Ohio, is being awarded a $6,763,229 modification under a previously awarded firm-fixed-price contract (N69450-09-C-0761) to exercise options 0004, 0005, 0007, 0008, 0009, 0011, 0012, and 0014 for the runway repair project at Naval Air Station Kingsville. The total contract amount after exercise of these options will be $12,764,970. Work will be performed in Kingsville, Texas, and is expected to be completed by Jun. 2010. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southeast, Jacksonville, Fla., is the contracting activity.
Raytheon Co., Tucson, Ariz., is being awarded a $6,753,516 modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-09-C-5303) for fiscal year 2009 common production spares in support of STANDARD Missile – 2 (SM-2). The contract provides for the delivery of common spares material in support of SM-2 guided missile program. Common spares are those items purchased or manufactured during the production of STANDARD Missile – 2 (SM-2) all up rounds. Work will be performed in Tucson, Ariz. (72 percent) and Camden, Ark. (28 percent), and is expected to be completed by December 2011. Contract funds in the amount of $6,753,516 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington Navy Yard, D.C., is the contracting activity.
GDI/Allen & Shariff, joint venture*, Bladensburg, Md., is being awarded $6,677,435 for firm-fixed-price task order #0048 under a previously awarded multiple award construction contract (N40080-06-D-0500) for the infrastructure at Russell Road, Phase 1, at Marine Corps Base Quantico. The work to be performed provides for the additional traffic lanes and improvements to Gate 4 to bring it up to current anti-terrorism force protection requirements and required traffic light upgrades. The contract also contains two unexercised options, which if exercised would increase the cumulative contract value to $7,199,393. Work will be performed in Quantico, Va., and is expected to be completed by Sept. 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Three proposals were received for this task order. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Washington, Wash., D.C., is the contracting activity.
Halbert Construction Co., Inc.*, El Cajon, Calif., was awarded on Sept, 28, 2009, $6,645,196 for firm-fixed-price task order #0004 under a previously awarded multiple award construction contract (N62473-09-D-1615) for the design and construction of an armory at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton. The work to be performed provides for the design and construction of a facility for storage and routine maintenance of small arms and emergency gear; administrative offices and classrooms; and battalion headquarters, artillery, and maintenance cages. The contract also contains two planned modifications, which if issued would increase cumulative contract value to $7,410,196. Work will be performed in Oceanside, Calif., and is expected to be completed by Jan. 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Six proposals were received for this task order. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southwest, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity.
Short Bark Industries,* Venore, Tenn., is being awarded a $31,147,448 firm-fixed price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for inclement weather combat shirts (IWCS). The IWCS will provide protection against a broad spectrum of environmental, occupational and battlefield hazards. This contract contains options, which if exercised will bring the total cumulative value of the contract to $41,876,159. Work will be performed in Venore, Tenn., and delivery is expected to be complete in 12 months after issuance of each delivery order. Contract funds in the amount of $31,147,448 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract is awarded as a result of a full and open competitive 100 percent set-aside for small business solicitation. The Marine Corps Systems Command, Quantico, Va., is the contracting activity (M67854-09-D-3077).
Rio Grande Electric Cooperative Inc., Brackettville, Texas, is being awarded a maximum $72,867,150 firm fixed price prospective redetermination contract for ownership, operation and maintenance of electric distribution system at Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas. Other location of performance is Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas. Using service is Air Force. The original proposal was Web solicited with one response. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is December 2060. The contracting activity is the Defense Energy Support Center, Fort Belvoir, Va., (SP0600-09-C-8258).
Impact Instrumentation Inc., West Caldwell, N.J.*, is being awarded a maximum $45,946,344 firm fixed price contract for suction apparatus model. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and federal civilian agencies. The original proposal was Web solicited with one response. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is Sept. 28, 2010. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa., (SPM2D1-09-D-8019).
Zoll Medical Corp., Chelmsford, Mass., is being awarded a maximum $29,830,740 firm fixed price contract for Airworthy CCT Defibrillators. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and federal civilian agencies. The original proposal was Web solicited with three responses. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is Sept. 29, 2010. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa., (SPM2D1-09-D-8017).
Phillips Healthcare, Andover, Mass., is being awarded a maximum $26, 602, 871 firm fixed price contract for Airworthy HeartStart MRx Defibrillators. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and federal civilian agencies. The original proposal was Web solicited with three responses. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The date of performance completion is Sept. 28, 2010. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa., (SPM2D1-09-D-8018).
Camel Manufacturing Co., Pioneer, Tenn.*, is being awarded a maximum $14,259,565 firm fixed price, total set aside, sole source contract for modular general purpose tent system. There are no other locations of performance. Using services are Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There was originally one proposal solicited with one response. The date of performance completion is Feb. 28, 2011. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pa., (SPM1C1-09-C-0028).
BAE Systems/Rockwell-Collins Data Link Solutions, Cedar Rapids, Iowa is being awarded a maximum $6,427,850 firm fixed price, sole source contract for interface units for Link16/Joint Tactical Information Distribution Systems. There are no other locations of performance. Using service is Air Force. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There was originally one proposal solicited with one response. The date of performance completion is August 2011. The contracting activity is the Defense Supply Center Richmond, Robins AFB, Ga., (SPRWA1-09-C-0036).
World Wide Technologies, St. Louis, Mo., is being awarded a maximum $6,073,395 firm fixed price contract for support of hardware and software updates. Other locations of performance are Ohio and California. Using service is Defense Automated Address Systems Center. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. There were originally 38 proposals solicited with three responses. The date of performance completion is Oct. 31, 2009.Defense Logistics Agency, Philadelphia, Pa., (SP4701-09-A-0012).
AIR FORCE
McDonnell Douglas Corp., of Long Beach, Calif., was awarded a $52,682,274 contract will provide for modification to the C-17 Globemaster III sustainment partnership contract to procure large aircraft spare parts such as aircraft tails and cargo ramps. At this time, the entire amount has been obligated. 516 AESG/SYK, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio is the contracting activity (FA8614-04-C-2004,P00323).
Spectrum Communications, Inc., of Newport News, Va., was awarded a $49,980,000 contract which will identify, analyze and apply leading edge technologies to satisfy Air Force Global Cyberspace Integration Center innovation and experimentation requirements. At this time, $1,000,000 has been obligated. AFRL/RIKD, Rome New York is the contracting activity (FA8750-09-D-0017).
L-3 Communications Integrated Systems, LP, of Greenville, Texas was awarded a $11,928,055 contract which will exercise option one of the contract in support of the mission communication systems encompassing United States Air Force unique communication systems. At this time, no money has been obligated. 727 ACSG/PKB, Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma is the contracting activity (FA8106-08-C-0005,P00021).
Centauri Solution, LLC of Alexandria, Va., was awarded a $11,750,000 contract which will demonstrate the operational feasibility and military effectiveness of integrating an advanced lightweight high definition electro-infrared sensor with an unintentional electromagnetic emissions sensor system on an autonomous vertical take-off and landing unmanned aerial vehicle. At this time the entire amount has been obligated. AFRL/RIKD, Rome, New York is the contracting activity (FA8750-09-C-0211).
Lockheed Martin Corp., Fort Worth, Texas, was awarded a $10,991,217 contract which will provide field team support at various bases to support the F-22 fleet. At this time the entire amount has been obligated. 573 AESS/SYK, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Nebraska is the contracting activity (FA8611-08-C-2897,P00033).
Alenia North America, Incorporated of Washington, District of Columbia was awarded a $7,118,653 contract to provide for the acquisition of 18 refurbished G222 aircraft to support the Afghan National Army Air Corps. At this time, the entire amount has been obligated. 330 ACSG/GFKA, Robins Air Force Base, Ga., is the contracting activity (FA8504-08-C-0007,P00002).
NAVY
The ITT Advanced Engineering & Sciences Division, Alexandria, Va., is being awarded $35,802,804 to provide Reentry Systems Technical Support Services for Base Year FY10 and Option Year FY11 and Option Year FY12. These services will include system assessment & vulnerability, reentry systems applications programs, weapon system refurbishment programs, declassification review program, SP274 support, and SP20/200 support. Work will be performed in Colorado Springs, Colo., (38.32 percent); Arlington, Va., (32.63 percent); Washington, D.C., (25.49 precent); Albuquerque, N.M., (2.03 percent); Omaha, Neb., (1.50 percent), and Alexandria, Va., (.03 percent); and work is expected to be completed Sept. 30, 2012. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The contract was not competitively procured. The Navy's Strategic Systems Programs Arlington, Va., is the contracting activity (N00030-10-C-0014).
Chugach Industries*, Anchorage, Alaska, is being awarded $30,561,782 modification under a previously awarded firm-fixed price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract (N44255-05-D-7100) to exercise option #4 for base operations support services in the Navy Region Northwest, North Sound area. The total contract amount after exercise of this option will be $145,291,808. Work will be performed at various installations in the Navy Region Northwest area of responsibility, and work is expected to be completed Sept. 30, 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Northwest, Silverdale, Wash., is the contracting activity.
IAP–Hill, LLC (a joint venture), Cape Canaveral, Fla., is being awarded a $27,638,906 modification under a previously awarded firm-fixed price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract (N62467-00-D-2451) to exercise option 9 for regional base operations support services at Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Naval Station Mayport, and the surrounding southeast region. The work to be performed provides for, but is not limited to, scheduled maintenance of base facilities, utilities, environmental, transportation and fire alarm systems. The total contract amount after exercise of this option will be $526,086,645. Work will be performed in Jacksonville, Fla., and the surrounding southeast region, and is expected to be completed by Sept. 2010. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southeast, Jacksonville, Fla., is the contracting activity.
Walbridge Aldinger, Detroit, Mich., is being awarded a $26,702,919 firm-fixed-price contract for construction of a Dynamic Component Rebuild Facility at the Corpus Christi Army Depot at Naval Air Station Corpus Christi. The work to be performed provides for the surveying, grading, layout, and construction of a new wide span, high bay facility housing test cells and equipment for the dynamic components aviation assembly facility supporting the U.S. Army Helicopter Repair Depot. Work will be performed in Corpus Christi, Texas, and is expected to be completed in May 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the Navy Electronic Commerce Online website, with nine proposals received. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southeast, Jacksonville, Fla., is the contracting activity (N69450-09-C-0758).
Northrop Grumman Systems Corp., Sperry Marine, Charlottesville, Va., is being awarded a $20,912,878 firm-fixed-price contract for the production and delivery of eight AN/BPS-16(v)5 Radar sets to be installed upon Virginia Class Block III submarines SSN 784 through SSN 791. The AN/BPS-16 series radars are submarine class A, X-band systems that provide navigation surface surveillance. These radars include the Voyage Management System, which provides electronic chart display information systems-Navy capabilities. Effort under this contract includes the manufacturing, fabrication, assembly, and necessary testing. Work will be performed in Charlottesville, Va., and is expected to be completed by November 2016. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington, D.C., is the contracting activity (N00024-09-C-5304).
Hawaiian Dredging Construction Co., Inc., Honolulu, Hawaii, is being awarded an $18,956,000 firm-fixed price contract for design and construction of a child development center at Naval Station Pearl Harbor. The work to be performed provides for training rooms and activity rooms for infants, pre-toddlers, toddlers, and pre-schoolers. The project includes an administration building and a building for kitchen, laundry and storage. Playground areas will be developed with appropriate playground equipment and playground surface. This project includes the creation of parking and driveway designed to provide a safe covered drop-off/pickup area and a driveway long enough for cars waiting for drop-off/pickup to prevent congestion on the street. Off-base access will be available only for pedestrian traffic; guard shack will be manned by security personnel when pedestrian access is open. Work will be performed in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, and is expected to be completed by Oct. 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the Navy Electronic Commerce Online website with nine proposals received. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Pacific, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, is the contracting activity (N62742-09-C-1311).
Tomco Corp.*, Honolulu, Hawaii, is being awarded an $18,475,900 firm-fixed price contract for design and construction of an advanced radar detection laboratory at Pacific Missile Range Facility. Work will be performed in Kauai, Hawaii, and is expected to be completed by Aug. 2011. The contract also contains one unexercised option, which if exercised would increase the cumulative contract value to $18,481,600. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the Navy Electronic Commerce Online website with 10 proposals received. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Pacific, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, is the contracting activity (N62742-09-C-1309).
John C. Grimberg Co., Inc., Rockville, Md., 20852 is being awarded a $17,520,000 firm-fixed price contract for design and construction of an autonomous research laboratory at the Naval Research Laboratory. Work will be performed in Wash., D.C., and is expected to be completed by Mar. 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the Navy Electronic Commerce Online website, with nine proposals received. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Washington, Wash., D.C., is the contracting activity (N40080-09-C-0023).
Peoples Gas, Tampa, Fla., is being awarded $17,267,715 for firm-fixed-price task order #0007 under a previously awarded basic ordering agreement (N69450-07-G-0089) for energy conservation measures in over 30 commander, Navy Installations Command buildings at Naval Air Station Jacksonville. Work will be performed in Jacksonville, Fla., and is expected to be completed by Nov. 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. One proposal was received for this task order. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southeast, Jacksonville, Fla., is the contracting activity.
Walton Construction Co., LLC, Dallas, Texas, was awarded on Sept, 28, 2009, $15,180,000 for firm-fixed price task order #0011 under a previously awarded multiple award construction contract (N62467-05-D-0184) for design and construction of a security forces complex at Barksdale Air Force Base. The facility will include spaces for administration, control center, jail, armory, supply, classrooms, and vehicle maintenance. Work will be performed in Shreveport, La., and is expected to be completed by Feb. 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Four proposals were received for this task order. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southeast Jacksonville, Fla., is the contracting activity.
Sierra Nevada Corp., Sparks, Nev., is being awarded a $14,166,934 firm-fixed-price cost-plus-fixed-fee, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for the procurement of the Transmitting Set, Countermeasures (TSC) AN/PLT-5 to support joint services explosive ordnance disposal (JSEOD) personnel. JSEOD forces have a requirement for man-portable equipment and support for the JSEOD Counter Radio Controlled Improvised Explosive Device Electronic Warfare (CREW) program. The JSEOD CREW program provides all military EOD services with an electronic warfare capability to counter the threat from improvised explosive devices. The JSEOD CREW systems protect EOD forces of all services, including those currently located in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, Afghanistan. This contract combines purchases for the Navy (72 percent), Air Force (24 percent) and Army (4 percent). Work will be performed in Sparks, Nev., and is expected to be completed by September 2010. Contract funds in the amount of $4,602,344 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. The Naval Surface Warfare Center, Indian Head Division, Indian Head, Md. is the contracting activity (N00174-09-D-0003).
KIRA Inc., Miami, Fla., is being awarded a $12,525,421 modification to previously awarded firm-fixed price, indefinite-delivery contract (N69272-03-D-1010) to exercise option 1 for regional base operations support services at Naval Air Station Jacksonville, Naval Station Mayport, and the surrounding southeast region. The work to be performed provides for, but is not limited to, scheduled maintenance of grounds maintenance, pest control, refuse, janitorial and fire alarm system maintenance. The total contract amount after exercise of this option will be $69,291,711. Work will be performed in Jacksonville, Fla., and the surrounding southeast region, with work expected to be completed Sept. 30, 2010. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southeast, Jacksonville, Fla., is the contracting activity.
Bulltrack/Watts II, A Joint Venture*, Bremerton, Wash., was awarded on Sept, 28, 2009, $10,815,000 firm-fixed-price contract to replace the water distribution system at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island. Work will be performed in Oak Harbor, Wash., and is expected to be completed by Sept. 2011. Funds for this project are provided by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the Navy Electronic Commerce Online website, with seven proposals received. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Northwest, Silverdale, Wash., is the contracting activity (N44255-09-C-7003).
Amatea/Grimberg, joint venture*, Leesburg, Va., is being awarded a $10,574,419 firm-fixed-price contract for the Energetics Systems and Technology Laboratory Complex Indian Head Division at Naval Surface Warfare Center. The multi-story facility consists of weapons and engineering laboratory space, inert work space, and secure compartmented information facilities. Supporting Facilities include information systems, computer flooring, heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, fire protection and alarm systems, plumbing, electrical power distribution, lighting, utility development, and intrusion detection system. Work will be performed in Indian Head, Md., and is expected to be completed by Mar. 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was competitively procured via the Navy Electronic Commerce Online website, with five proposals received. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Washington, Wash., D.C., is the contracting activity (N40080-09-C-0171).
Harper Construction Co., Inc., San Diego, Calif., is being awarded $10,538,675 for firm-fixed-price task order #0002 for design and construction of a child development center at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton. The new facility, located in the De Luz housing area, will include classrooms, administrative offices, library, storage, equipment for food service, and laundry areas. Site features will include five playground areas with equipment, shade structure and protective ground covering, exterior child protection fencing, exterior site and building lighting, paved parking, sidewalks, ramps, permanent signs, landscaping, and automatic irrigation system. Work will be performed in Oceanside, Calif., and is expected to be completed by Jan. 2010. Funds for this project are provided by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Six proposals were received for this task order. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southwest, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity (N62473-08-D-8617).
ESCAB Enterprises Inc.*, Gaithersburg, Md., was awarded on Sept, 28, 2009, $9,799,841 modification under a previously awarded firm-fixed price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract (contract number N40080-05-D-0423) to exercise option 4 for regional janitorial services at various locations within a 100-mile radius of the Washington Navy Yard. The total contract amount after exercise of this option will be $22,263,715. Work will be performed at the U.S. Naval Observatory, Washington, D.C.; National Naval Medical Center, Bethesda, Md.; Naval Reserve Center (Baltimore Fort McHenry), Baltimore, Md.; Naval Surface Warfare Center, Dahlgren, Va.; Indian Head Division Naval Surface Warfare Center, Indian Head, Md.; Naval Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technical Division, Stump Neck, Md.; Naval Research Labs, Pomonkey, Md.; Naval Research Labs, Blossom Point, Md.; Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Patuxent River, Md.; Webster Field, St. Inigoes, Md.; Solomons Annex, Solomons, Md.; Naval Surface Warfare Center, Carderock, West Bethesda, Md.; Marine Corps Readiness Center, Baltimore, Md.; and Chesapeake Bay Detachment, Chesapeake Beach, Md., and work is expected to be Sept. 30, 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Washington, Wash., D.C., is the contracting activity.
Navmar Applied Sciences Corp.*, Warminster, Pa., is being awarded a $9,238,113 modification to a previously awarded cost-plus-fixed-fee contract (N68335-08-C-0470) to provide additional funding for continued work on Phase III Small Business Innovation Research projects N92-170 and N94-178, entitled "Laser Detection & Ranging (LADAR) Identification/Air Deployed Sensors" and " Air Deployed, Expendable, Multi-Parameter Environmental Probe", respectively. This effort will transition the technologies developed into near-term and long-term advanced surveillance, reconnaissance, and force protection. Work will be performed in Patuxent River, Md. (30 percent); Yuma, Ariz. (25 percent); Warminster, Pa. (20 percent) and various OCONUS locations (25 percent), and is expected to be completed in September 2011. Contract funds in the amount of 100,000 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division, Lakehurst, N.J., is the contracting activity.
Parsons Infrastructure & Technology Group Inc., Pasadena, Calif., is being awarded $8,428,803 for firm-fixed price task order #EFE4 under the previously awarded SEAPORT-E multiple award contract (N00178-05-D-4487) for professional support services at various Marine Corp installations. The work to be performed provides for facility inventory, inspections and data entry using builder engineered management system. Work will be performed at Marine Corps Base (MCB) Quantico, Quantico, Va., Marine Corps Air Facility Quantico, Quantico, Va., Marine Corps Logistic Base Albany, Albany, Ga., Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Cherry Point, Cherry Point, N.C., MCAS New River, Jacksonville, N.C., Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, Parris Island, S.C., MCB Camp Pendleton, Oceanside, Calif., and MCB Camp Lejeune, Jacksonville, N.C., and is expected to be completed by Sept. 2010. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Three proposals were received for this task order. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southwest, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity.
ITT Corporation, Roanoke, Va., is being awarded an $8,426,000 firm-fixed-price contract for 16 mm panoramic night vision goggle tubes, to be used with the Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System program. Work will be performed in Roanoke, Va., and is expected to be completed by October 2011. Contract funds in the amount of $7,660,000 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competitively procured. Naval Surface Warfare Center, Crane Ind. is the contracting activity (N00164-09-C-JQ83).
Armor Group North America Inc., McLean, Va., is being awarded an $8,073,841 modification under a previously awarded firm-fixed price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract (N33191-07-D-1357) to exercise option 2 for provision of security guard services at Naval Support Activity Bahrain. The total contract amount after exercise of this option will be $19,614,476. This contract also contains two additional unexercised option periods, which if exercised, would increase cumulative contract value to $36,790,529. Work will be performed primarily in Bahrain (93 percent) and United Arab Emirates (7 percent), and work is expected to be completed Sept. 30, 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Europe and Southwest Asia, Manama, Bahrain, is the contracting activity.
Halbert Construction, Inc.*, El Cajon, Calif., was awarded on Sept, 28, 2009, $7,788,014 for firm-fixed-price task order #0005 under a previously awarded multiple award construction contract (N62473-09-D-1615) for the design and construction of a new education center and lifelong learning center at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms. The contract also contains a planned modification, which if issued would increase cumulative contract value to $8,736,014. Work will be performed in Twentynine Palms, Calif., and is expected to be completed by Apr. 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Six proposals were received for this task order. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southwest, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity.
DRS C3 Systems, Inc., doing business as DRS Technologies, Gaithersburg, Md., is being awarded a $7,147,412 cost-plus-fixed-fee contract for the Common Signal Processor Technology Demonstrator. This effort focuses on the development of general purpose, open-architecture, signal processing solutions that will satisfy not only the needs of the closely related C-Band Active Array Radar program, but also be scalable and capable of serving as a common signal processor for application to other radars, both under development and legacy. Work will be performed in Gaithersburg, Md., and work is expected to be completed September 2011. Contract funds in the amount of $3,863,350 will expire at end of current fiscal year. The contract was procured under Broad Agency Announcement 09-001 Contract N00014-09-C-0462 which was electronically issued via the internet, the number of potential offerors who received this solicitation is not available, the number of awards made was one. Office of Naval Research Arlington, Va., is the contracting activity (N00014-09-C-0462)
Raytheon Co., Tucson, Ariz., is being awarded a $6,966,676 modification to a previously awarded contract (N00024-07-C-5361) for R&D Level of effort engineering and technical services to support the standard missile program. This ceiling increase is to permit the continuation of several ongoing efforts which include prototype design, development integration and testing. Work will be performed in Tucson, Ariz. and is expected to be completed by December 2009. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington Navy Yard, D.C., is the contracting activity.
Head, Inc.*, Columbus, Ohio, is being awarded a $6,763,229 modification under a previously awarded firm-fixed-price contract (N69450-09-C-0761) to exercise options 0004, 0005, 0007, 0008, 0009, 0011, 0012, and 0014 for the runway repair project at Naval Air Station Kingsville. The total contract amount after exercise of these options will be $12,764,970. Work will be performed in Kingsville, Texas, and is expected to be completed by Jun. 2010. Contract funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southeast, Jacksonville, Fla., is the contracting activity.
Raytheon Co., Tucson, Ariz., is being awarded a $6,753,516 modification to previously awarded contract (N00024-09-C-5303) for fiscal year 2009 common production spares in support of STANDARD Missile – 2 (SM-2). The contract provides for the delivery of common spares material in support of SM-2 guided missile program. Common spares are those items purchased or manufactured during the production of STANDARD Missile – 2 (SM-2) all up rounds. Work will be performed in Tucson, Ariz. (72 percent) and Camden, Ark. (28 percent), and is expected to be completed by December 2011. Contract funds in the amount of $6,753,516 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington Navy Yard, D.C., is the contracting activity.
GDI/Allen & Shariff, joint venture*, Bladensburg, Md., is being awarded $6,677,435 for firm-fixed-price task order #0048 under a previously awarded multiple award construction contract (N40080-06-D-0500) for the infrastructure at Russell Road, Phase 1, at Marine Corps Base Quantico. The work to be performed provides for the additional traffic lanes and improvements to Gate 4 to bring it up to current anti-terrorism force protection requirements and required traffic light upgrades. The contract also contains two unexercised options, which if exercised would increase the cumulative contract value to $7,199,393. Work will be performed in Quantico, Va., and is expected to be completed by Sept. 2010. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Three proposals were received for this task order. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Washington, Wash., D.C., is the contracting activity.
Halbert Construction Co., Inc.*, El Cajon, Calif., was awarded on Sept, 28, 2009, $6,645,196 for firm-fixed-price task order #0004 under a previously awarded multiple award construction contract (N62473-09-D-1615) for the design and construction of an armory at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton. The work to be performed provides for the design and construction of a facility for storage and routine maintenance of small arms and emergency gear; administrative offices and classrooms; and battalion headquarters, artillery, and maintenance cages. The contract also contains two planned modifications, which if issued would increase cumulative contract value to $7,410,196. Work will be performed in Oceanside, Calif., and is expected to be completed by Jan. 2011. Contract funds will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. Six proposals were received for this task order. The Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southwest, San Diego, Calif., is the contracting activity.
Short Bark Industries,* Venore, Tenn., is being awarded a $31,147,448 firm-fixed price, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract for inclement weather combat shirts (IWCS). The IWCS will provide protection against a broad spectrum of environmental, occupational and battlefield hazards. This contract contains options, which if exercised will bring the total cumulative value of the contract to $41,876,159. Work will be performed in Venore, Tenn., and delivery is expected to be complete in 12 months after issuance of each delivery order. Contract funds in the amount of $31,147,448 will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract is awarded as a result of a full and open competitive 100 percent set-aside for small business solicitation. The Marine Corps Systems Command, Quantico, Va., is the contracting activity (M67854-09-D-3077).
International OpinIon Solidified by Iranian Actions, Official Says
By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 28, 2009 - Iranian actions have solidified international opinion against Iran and its nuclear program, said Colin Kahl, the deputy assistant secretary of defense for the Middle East. Kahl spoke to bloggers who specialize in the Middle East during a briefing set up by the Middle East Institute in the Pentagon today.
As negotiations with Iran start on October 1, there are encouraging signs, Kahl said. The Iranian elections in August and the regime's violence against the protesters solidified European opinion on Iran. European leaders are now "on the same wavelength" as U.S. officials, he said. The Europeans now want to ensure Iran negotiates in good faith, "and if they are not, to pivot towards pressure track," he said. The pressure track refers to increased sanctions against the country.
The revelations about the nuclear facility at Qom also had the effect of bringing the Russians closer to the U.S. position. "And there is the hope that if you can get the Russians on board, then the Chinese may also be on board," he said.
President Barack Obama told Iran that the United States would negotiate, but no one is going to talk forever or wait forever. If Iran doesn't come to negotiations with some proposals that make sense, "I think you will see the international community turn very decisively toward the pressure track," Kahl said.
Iran is pursuing nuclear weapons for one of two reasons: defensive reasons or for hegemonic reasons, Kahl said. "If it is purely for defensive purposes, then the engagement effort is an attempt for us to prove that we are no threat, and there is no reason to acquire these weapons," he said.
"If it is because of hegemonic reasons – the fear that Israel and the Gulf states have – then it is important to convey to the Iranian regime that their security would be lessened with nuclear weapons rather than enhanced," Kahl said.
Just the threat of a nuclear-armed Iran has changed the calculus in the Middle East. The United States continues to exercise with the Gulf states, and the Gulf states – including Saudi Arabia – are spending extraordinary amounts of money to modernize their forces, the former Georgetown professor said.
What Iran has done is unify the region in a way that hasn't been seen in a long time," he said. "There are more unified air and missile defense systems for example."
"I don't think anybody thinks a military strike by anybody is imminent," Kahl said. Diplomacy is the preferred track. The U.S. position is that a military attack on Iran's nuclear processing facilities would be consequential.
Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates and Navy Adm. Mike Mullen have pointed out that "while no action is off the table, military action is not a desirable course and it should be a last option," Kahl said. "This is largely because military action would have an unpredictable set of consequences for the region."
Military action would be de-stabilizing in a very unstable part of the world. Iran could choose to retaliate to any strike by using its proxies – the terror groups Hamas and Hezbollah, he said. The Iranians could also incite Shia communities in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states.
Iran could directly retaliate against U.S. forces in Iraq or Afghanistan or against Israeli interests in the region. "You could imagine the second and third order of consequences of that on the peace process and our outreach to the Muslim world," he said.
A military strike also does not solve the problem, it just pushes it farther down the road. A strike could also 'incentivize' the Iranians to bury their factories further underground. "The secretary has been clear and consistent on this: No one is talking about a military strike at the moment, but all options are clearly on the table," he said.
The international community is putting more pressure on Iran that is being felt in the region, he said. "There is a bit more time on Israel's clock, I think you've seen a little bit more patience in their statements as well," he said. The Israelis are not optimistic about diplomacy, but they are willing to let the international community try.
American Forces Press Service
Sept. 28, 2009 - Iranian actions have solidified international opinion against Iran and its nuclear program, said Colin Kahl, the deputy assistant secretary of defense for the Middle East. Kahl spoke to bloggers who specialize in the Middle East during a briefing set up by the Middle East Institute in the Pentagon today.
As negotiations with Iran start on October 1, there are encouraging signs, Kahl said. The Iranian elections in August and the regime's violence against the protesters solidified European opinion on Iran. European leaders are now "on the same wavelength" as U.S. officials, he said. The Europeans now want to ensure Iran negotiates in good faith, "and if they are not, to pivot towards pressure track," he said. The pressure track refers to increased sanctions against the country.
The revelations about the nuclear facility at Qom also had the effect of bringing the Russians closer to the U.S. position. "And there is the hope that if you can get the Russians on board, then the Chinese may also be on board," he said.
President Barack Obama told Iran that the United States would negotiate, but no one is going to talk forever or wait forever. If Iran doesn't come to negotiations with some proposals that make sense, "I think you will see the international community turn very decisively toward the pressure track," Kahl said.
Iran is pursuing nuclear weapons for one of two reasons: defensive reasons or for hegemonic reasons, Kahl said. "If it is purely for defensive purposes, then the engagement effort is an attempt for us to prove that we are no threat, and there is no reason to acquire these weapons," he said.
"If it is because of hegemonic reasons – the fear that Israel and the Gulf states have – then it is important to convey to the Iranian regime that their security would be lessened with nuclear weapons rather than enhanced," Kahl said.
Just the threat of a nuclear-armed Iran has changed the calculus in the Middle East. The United States continues to exercise with the Gulf states, and the Gulf states – including Saudi Arabia – are spending extraordinary amounts of money to modernize their forces, the former Georgetown professor said.
What Iran has done is unify the region in a way that hasn't been seen in a long time," he said. "There are more unified air and missile defense systems for example."
"I don't think anybody thinks a military strike by anybody is imminent," Kahl said. Diplomacy is the preferred track. The U.S. position is that a military attack on Iran's nuclear processing facilities would be consequential.
Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates and Navy Adm. Mike Mullen have pointed out that "while no action is off the table, military action is not a desirable course and it should be a last option," Kahl said. "This is largely because military action would have an unpredictable set of consequences for the region."
Military action would be de-stabilizing in a very unstable part of the world. Iran could choose to retaliate to any strike by using its proxies – the terror groups Hamas and Hezbollah, he said. The Iranians could also incite Shia communities in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states.
Iran could directly retaliate against U.S. forces in Iraq or Afghanistan or against Israeli interests in the region. "You could imagine the second and third order of consequences of that on the peace process and our outreach to the Muslim world," he said.
A military strike also does not solve the problem, it just pushes it farther down the road. A strike could also 'incentivize' the Iranians to bury their factories further underground. "The secretary has been clear and consistent on this: No one is talking about a military strike at the moment, but all options are clearly on the table," he said.
The international community is putting more pressure on Iran that is being felt in the region, he said. "There is a bit more time on Israel's clock, I think you've seen a little bit more patience in their statements as well," he said. The Israelis are not optimistic about diplomacy, but they are willing to let the international community try.
Longest-serving Navy SEAL Retires
By Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Jacob Dillon
Special to American Forces Press Service
Sept. 29, 2009 - The longest-serving Navy SEAL was piped ashore for the last time during a retirement ceremony Sept. 25 at Naval Special Warfare Group 4 on Naval Amphibious Base, Little Creek, Va. Navy Capt. Pete Wikul passed the title of "Bull Frog" to Navy Adm. Eric T. Olson, commander of U.S. Special Operations Command. The Bull Frog title recognizes the operator with the greatest amount of cumulative service following completion of underwater demolition team replacement accession or basic underwater demolition/SEAL training, regardless of rank.
Wikul was born in 1952 in Manhattan, N.Y., and enlisted in the Navy in May 1970. He graduated in UDBT Class 7102.
Olson, a Tacoma, Wash., native, graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1973 and qualified as a naval special warfare officer in 1974. He graduated in BUD/S Class 76. As a four-star admiral, he now is the highest-ranking Navy SEAL to hold the Bull Frog title.
During his remarks, Olson said every current and former Navy SEAL has benefited from Wikul's longevity and solid leadership. He also pointed out that the people in attendance showed the most powerful tribute that can be paid to Wikul's life, service and accomplishments.
"I joined for adventure, but my reasons to stay in always changed," Wikul said. "The first reason was to be a platoon commander, and then it was task unit commander, and then commanding officer. I then woke up one day and said, 'It's not about me, it's about service to the nation and doing anything the nation asks of me.'"
Wikul said he will miss having troops under his command and mentoring them, and giving them everything they need to defeat the nation's foes. He also expressed confidence in his replacement as Bull Frog.
"Admiral Olson is the best four-star in the country, the best four-star in the world. He is the best four-star one could ever hope to work for," Wikul said. "The man is humble, he's courageous, and I would follow him anywhere. For me to give him the Bull Frog trophy is one of the highlights of my career."
(Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Jacob Dillon serves in the Naval Special Warfare Group 2 public affairs office.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
Sept. 29, 2009 - The longest-serving Navy SEAL was piped ashore for the last time during a retirement ceremony Sept. 25 at Naval Special Warfare Group 4 on Naval Amphibious Base, Little Creek, Va. Navy Capt. Pete Wikul passed the title of "Bull Frog" to Navy Adm. Eric T. Olson, commander of U.S. Special Operations Command. The Bull Frog title recognizes the operator with the greatest amount of cumulative service following completion of underwater demolition team replacement accession or basic underwater demolition/SEAL training, regardless of rank.
Wikul was born in 1952 in Manhattan, N.Y., and enlisted in the Navy in May 1970. He graduated in UDBT Class 7102.
Olson, a Tacoma, Wash., native, graduated from the U.S. Naval Academy in 1973 and qualified as a naval special warfare officer in 1974. He graduated in BUD/S Class 76. As a four-star admiral, he now is the highest-ranking Navy SEAL to hold the Bull Frog title.
During his remarks, Olson said every current and former Navy SEAL has benefited from Wikul's longevity and solid leadership. He also pointed out that the people in attendance showed the most powerful tribute that can be paid to Wikul's life, service and accomplishments.
"I joined for adventure, but my reasons to stay in always changed," Wikul said. "The first reason was to be a platoon commander, and then it was task unit commander, and then commanding officer. I then woke up one day and said, 'It's not about me, it's about service to the nation and doing anything the nation asks of me.'"
Wikul said he will miss having troops under his command and mentoring them, and giving them everything they need to defeat the nation's foes. He also expressed confidence in his replacement as Bull Frog.
"Admiral Olson is the best four-star in the country, the best four-star in the world. He is the best four-star one could ever hope to work for," Wikul said. "The man is humble, he's courageous, and I would follow him anywhere. For me to give him the Bull Frog trophy is one of the highlights of my career."
(Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Jacob Dillon serves in the Naval Special Warfare Group 2 public affairs office.)
No One Deserves to be Abused
By T.D. Jackson
Special to American Forces Press Service
Sept. 29, 2009 - Some time ago a co-worker of mine came to work with what I thought was a black eye. I noticed it as I was talking to her, and when it registered, my eyes sort of slid away from her face and began looking everywhere but at her. I thought, "I am not going there," and I went on with my day without giving it too much thought. Because I wasn't sure, I didn't feel the need to say something, but the sad part is that if it had been a more obvious black eye, I know I wouldn't have said a thing; I would have been too scared.
Just as I learned in the suicide prevention training we've had here over the past few months, I should have asked those painful but caring questions: "Are you OK?" And in this case, "Did somebody hit you?"
October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. One in every four women will experience Domestic Violence in her lifetime, and women 20 to 24 are at the greatest risk. Here's one you probably knew: Most cases of Domestic Violence are never reported to the police. And one to blow your mind: Men are victims, too. More than 834,000 men report being domestically assaulted annually.
People who are abused often feel as though no one will believe them, or they think they have nowhere to go for help. At Camp Atterbury or at any other military installation, God knows (pun intended) you can call the chaplain at any time. Behavioral Health, too.
Even though this was some time ago, every now and then I still wonder, "What if somebody did hit her? What if she needed to talk, but everyone – for different reasons – was afraid to talk about it?" As a leader, I failed her, but this anecdote is my grasp at redemption.
My former co-worker probably never will set her sights on this article, but if someone did put hands on her, I would tell her I'm sorry -- sorry it happened to her, and sorry I was a chicken. If I had weighed the cost of embarrassment against the cost of caring, I wouldn't be writing this now.
I'm hoping maybe she didn't have a black eye. She may have – as I have on many occasions – caught a pitch with her face during softball practice. She may have – as I have on many occasions – stood a little too close to the top cabinet door as it swung open. For all I know, she could have gotten popped by a feisty rugrat. I don't know, and I never will.
But what I do know is that although I cannot concern myself with every detail of a person's life, I can be aware of changes in behavior, moods and certainly appearance. I was in a leadership position, and along with that title comes responsibility. It is my responsibility to make sure my people are OK at work and at home. The mark of a good leader is the ability to listen, and, my friend, although I am late, I am all ears.
(T.D. Jackson works in the Camp Atterbury public affairs office.)
Special to American Forces Press Service
Sept. 29, 2009 - Some time ago a co-worker of mine came to work with what I thought was a black eye. I noticed it as I was talking to her, and when it registered, my eyes sort of slid away from her face and began looking everywhere but at her. I thought, "I am not going there," and I went on with my day without giving it too much thought. Because I wasn't sure, I didn't feel the need to say something, but the sad part is that if it had been a more obvious black eye, I know I wouldn't have said a thing; I would have been too scared.
Just as I learned in the suicide prevention training we've had here over the past few months, I should have asked those painful but caring questions: "Are you OK?" And in this case, "Did somebody hit you?"
October is National Domestic Violence Awareness Month. One in every four women will experience Domestic Violence in her lifetime, and women 20 to 24 are at the greatest risk. Here's one you probably knew: Most cases of Domestic Violence are never reported to the police. And one to blow your mind: Men are victims, too. More than 834,000 men report being domestically assaulted annually.
People who are abused often feel as though no one will believe them, or they think they have nowhere to go for help. At Camp Atterbury or at any other military installation, God knows (pun intended) you can call the chaplain at any time. Behavioral Health, too.
Even though this was some time ago, every now and then I still wonder, "What if somebody did hit her? What if she needed to talk, but everyone – for different reasons – was afraid to talk about it?" As a leader, I failed her, but this anecdote is my grasp at redemption.
My former co-worker probably never will set her sights on this article, but if someone did put hands on her, I would tell her I'm sorry -- sorry it happened to her, and sorry I was a chicken. If I had weighed the cost of embarrassment against the cost of caring, I wouldn't be writing this now.
I'm hoping maybe she didn't have a black eye. She may have – as I have on many occasions – caught a pitch with her face during softball practice. She may have – as I have on many occasions – stood a little too close to the top cabinet door as it swung open. For all I know, she could have gotten popped by a feisty rugrat. I don't know, and I never will.
But what I do know is that although I cannot concern myself with every detail of a person's life, I can be aware of changes in behavior, moods and certainly appearance. I was in a leadership position, and along with that title comes responsibility. It is my responsibility to make sure my people are OK at work and at home. The mark of a good leader is the ability to listen, and, my friend, although I am late, I am all ears.
(T.D. Jackson works in the Camp Atterbury public affairs office.)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Posts
