How to Win the SSC Special Programs Directors Action Group Acquisition Support Services Contract

Introduction

The Space Systems Command (SSC) is the acquisition arm of the United States Space Force, responsible for developing, acquiring, fielding, and sustaining space capabilities for the nation. SSC oversees a diverse portfolio of programs that provide critical space services such as launch, communications, navigation, surveillance, weather, and missile warning. SSC also manages the Space Enterprise Consortium (SpEC), a rapid prototyping initiative that leverages non-traditional and small businesses to deliver innovative solutions for the space domain.

One of the key components of SSC is the Special Programs Directorate (SP), which oversees classified and sensitive space programs that support national security objectives. SP operates under the guidance of the Special Programs Directors Action Group (SPDAG), which provides strategic direction, oversight, and coordination for SP activities. SPDAG consists of senior leaders from SSC, the Space Force, the Department of Defense, and the Intelligence Community.

To support its mission, SPDAG requires acquisition support services from qualified contractors who can provide expert advice, analysis, and assistance in various areas such as program management, engineering, contracting, finance, security, and logistics. SPDAG has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for these services under the solicitation number SP2022002. The estimated value of the contract is $29 million and the duration of the term is to be determined.

Historical Background

This is not the first time that SPDAG has sought acquisition support services from contractors. In 2019, SPDAG awarded a contract to Booz Allen Hamilton Inc. under the solicitation number FA8819-19-R-0001. The contract had a base period of one year with four one-year options and a total value of $178 million. The scope of work included providing acquisition support services to SPDAG and its subordinate offices across multiple locations such as Los Angeles Air Force Base, Peterson Air Force Base, Schriever Air Force Base, Buckley Air Force Base, and other government facilities.

The current RFP is a follow-on to the previous contract, which is set to expire in September 2023. SPDAG intends to award a new contract to continue receiving acquisition support services for its classified and sensitive space programs. The new contract will have a similar scope of work as the previous one, but with some changes and updates to reflect the current needs and priorities of SPDAG.

RFP Description

The RFP for the SPDAG acquisition support services contract was released on October 4, 2023 and is open to all contractors who have a Top Secret clearance with Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) access and who can perform work at various government facilities.

The RFP consists of three sections: Section L (Instructions to Offerors), Section M (Evaluation Factors for Award), and Section C (Statement of Work). Section L provides detailed information on how to submit a proposal, including the format, content, page limits, due dates, and points of contact. Section M describes how the proposals will be evaluated by the government, using three factors: Technical Approach, Management Approach, and Past Performance. Section C defines the scope of work for the contract, including the tasks, deliverables, performance standards, and reporting requirements.

The RFP states that the contract will be awarded using a best value tradeoff process, meaning that the government will consider both price and non-price factors in making its decision. The RFP also states that the contract will be a single-award Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract with Firm Fixed Price (FFP) and Cost Plus Fixed Fee (CPFF) task orders. The IDIQ contract will have a five-year ordering period with no option periods.

Who Should Participate

The SPDAG acquisition support services contract is a highly competitive and lucrative opportunity for contractors who have experience and expertise in supporting classified and sensitive space programs. The contract requires contractors to have a deep understanding of the space domain and its challenges, as well as the ability to provide innovative solutions that meet SPDAG’s needs and expectations.

The contract also requires contractors to have a strong team of qualified personnel who can perform various roles such as program managers, engineers, analysts, specialists, advisors, and assistants. The personnel must have relevant education, training, certifications, and clearances to perform their duties. The personnel must also be able to work effectively with SPDAG and other government stakeholders in a collaborative and professional manner.

The contract is open to all contractors who meet the eligibility criteria stated in the RFP. However, some contractors may have an advantage over others based on their past performance and reputation in supporting SPDAG or similar programs. For example, Booz Allen Hamilton Inc., the incumbent contractor, may have an edge over other competitors due to its established relationship with SPDAG and its proven track record of delivering high-quality services. Other contractors who have experience in supporting SpEC or other rapid prototyping initiatives may also have a competitive edge due to their familiarity with the agile and innovative processes and practices that SPDAG values.

Challenges

The SPDAG acquisition support services contract is not without its challenges. Contractors who are interested in pursuing this opportunity must be prepared to overcome some potential obstacles and risks, such as:

• The high level of security and sensitivity involved in the contract. Contractors must ensure that they have the appropriate clearances, safeguards, and protocols to handle classified and sensitive information and materials. Contractors must also comply with all applicable laws, regulations, policies, and directives that govern the security and protection of national security space programs.
• The complexity and diversity of the scope of work. Contractors must be able to provide a wide range of services across multiple domains, disciplines, and functions. Contractors must also be able to adapt to changing requirements, priorities, and circumstances that may arise during the execution of the contract. Contractors must demonstrate their flexibility, agility, and innovation in delivering solutions that meet SPDAG’s needs and expectations.
• The competition and scrutiny from other contractors and government stakeholders. Contractors must be able to differentiate themselves from other competitors by showcasing their unique value proposition, capabilities, and experience. Contractors must also be able to withstand the rigorous evaluation process by the government, which may involve multiple rounds of reviews, clarifications, discussions, and negotiations.

Conclusion

The SPDAG acquisition support services contract is a rare and rewarding opportunity for contractors who have the qualifications, experience, and expertise to support classified and sensitive space programs. The contract offers contractors the chance to work on some of the most cutting-edge and impactful space initiatives that support national security objectives. The contract also offers contractors the chance to build long-term and strategic relationships with SPDAG and other government stakeholders in the space domain.

However, the contract is not for the faint of heart. Contractors who want to win this contract must be ready to face the challenges and risks that come with it. Contractors must also be ready to invest significant time, resources, and effort in preparing a compelling and competitive proposal that demonstrates their understanding of SPDAG’s mission, vision, goals, and challenges.

If you are looking for a professional and reliable partner who can help you win this contract, look no further than GDI Consulting. GDI Consulting is a leading provider of capture and proposal services for government contractors at the federal, state, and local level. Contact GDI Consulting at www.gdicwins.com today to find out how we can help you win the SPDAG acquisition support services contract.