October 4, 2024

QUICK HITS

• Navigating evolving cybersecurity challenges: Cyber leaders from DOE, FTO, DOS share insights on staying current with tools, practices, and policies.

• Turning trash into treasure: DARPA's ”waste to food” project is extra “green"

• Fraud: Strategies to prevent it in small business R&D grant programs.

•  SEWP VI Industry Day: NASA plans to host it in College Park, Maryland, on November 6th.

GOVBREW INSIDER

• Check out this week’s 60+ opportunities from defense, civilian, and intel agencies.

• In this week's recompete report, our team uncovered 50+ upcoming IT services opportunities at the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA).

• See if your company qualifies for any of the latest grants & competitions.

• Stay up to date on the upcoming events.

• Keep track of the latest Agency Acquisition Forecasts.

Become a GovBrew Insider member to receive new reports weekly. Join here

DEFENSE & AEROSPACE

DOD Agencies tackle Zero Trust problems before 2026 deadline.

As the 2026 deadline looms, DOD agencies are grappling with misunderstandings and obstacles in implementing Zero Trust cybersecurity principles. While the goal is to enhance security, officials acknowledge the significant challenges, including cultural resistance and technological limitations. A clear understanding of Zero Trust principles is essential to ensure a successful rollout. Read more

AI at the space edge: Key to defense modernization.

As the U.S. military pushes for modernization, AI is emerging as a game-changer at the space edge. Experts argue that integrating AI into satellite operations can enhance real-time decision-making and mission efficiency. However, integration is “inadequate at best.” Read more

Senators demand answers on DOD’s quantum sensing programs.

Quantum tech, which could revolutionize defense capabilities, such as detecting stealth aircraft or subs, has lawmakers wondering if the Pentagon’s efforts are keeping pace with rivals like China. The two countries are pursuing quant tech in very different way—which country is moving faster and more efficiently? Read more

ICYMI:

• RFP: Pentagon is on the hunt for affordable, long-range drones.

• DOD has evaluated sustainable technologies for military operations.

• DOD launches the Defense Security Cooperation Agency.

• Leidos showcases Black Arrow: These SCMs with multi-mission capabilities have been successfully tested—with successful results!

Defense Contract Awards

• Parsons nabbed a position on the $4B DTRA Countering WMD contract.

• HII inked a $458M DOD IT Architecture Modernization deal.

• General Dynamics won a $191M “Iron Fist” Active Protection Systems contract.

• Oceaneering was awarded a USN Remote Operations Center deal.

Follow the Defense Leaders

• Leidos has a new Chief Communications and Marketing Officer.

• Siemens GT has a new Digital Solutions VP.

• AITC welcomed its new CGO.

Defense Job Openings

• AFC wants a Director of Intelligence and Security Directorate.

• USMSC needs an Executive Director.

TRIVIA 🤔

Just click the choice you think is right & the correct answer will be shown. Scroll down to the bottom of this email for more information about the correct answer.

VIDEO

Team members from DARPA’s Contracts Management Office explore what it takes to innovate contracting processes and mechanisms. From DARPA’s pioneering work with OTAs, to fast-pitch proposals, to the exploration of previously unrealized authorities, hear how the agency is breaking down the barriers of government contracting, providing companies a clearer path to the national security mission.

INTEL COMMUNITY

Russian hackers disrupt military contractors’ systems for intel gains.

Russian cyber operatives have intensified their efforts to target U.S. military contractors and former officials. The goal? To steal sensitive data and disrupt operations. This latest round of attacks underlines the ever-growing cybersecurity risks facing both government and private sector defense players. Read more

Carahsoft raid sends ripples through Federal reseller market.

The recent FBI raid on Carahsoft’s offices has shaken the federal reseller market, raising questions about compliance and ethical practices. As one of the largest IT resellers in the government space, Carahsoft’s investigation could have far-reaching consequences for others in the industry. Read more

ICYMI:

• RFP: NGA seeks proposals for $708M Data Labeling contract (Sequoia).

• Spy agency NRO will have 100 new satellites in orbit by the end of the year.

• PureTech Systems Inc. won a Command and Control contract.

• ODNI is seeking an Office of Enterprise Services Assistant Director.

CIVILIAN

GSA pricing has been scrutinized after MAS consolidation.

The GSA’s Multiple Award Schedule (MAS) consolidation has caught the attention of the Inspector General, particularly for its impact on pricing. The audit reveals potential inconsistencies, raising concerns about whether the new system really benefits taxpayers and federal agencies. Read more

OMB launches first-ever AI acquisition policy.

The OMB has released the government’s first-ever AI acquisition policy, setting guidelines for the responsible use of AI in federal contracts. Agencies must now ensure AI systems meet safety, security, and ethical standards before adoption. This move aims to increase transparency while managing the potential risks of AI. Read more

CISA warns federal agencies to protect against nation-state email threats.

In the wake of CISA’s Emergency Directive, federal agencies are ramping up defenses against nation-state email compromises. The directive aims to bolster cybersecurity and prevent breaches like the infamous Microsoft email hack. With measures including mandatory multi-factor authentication and patching vulnerabilities, agencies are racing to tighten security and outsmart adversaries. Read more

ICYMI:

• Funding solutions, anyone? The feds have come up with a solution to meet rising the cybersecurity demands.

• FAA wants the SpaceX Crew-9 launch anomaly investigated.

• RFI: The TSA wants information on universal enrollment services.

Civilian Contracts Awards

• Aretum inked a $450M CBP Professional Services deal.

• GDIT bagged a $286M CMS Center Operational Services deal.

• Delviom won a $51M DHS OCIO Cybersecurity Governance & Compliance Services contract.

• Intuitive Machines & Aalyria Technologies received NASA Space Communications and Exploration Technologies contracts.

Follow Civilian Leaders

• Avint has chosen a new CGO and CSO.

• Parsons appointed a new Systems Engineering & Analysis SVP.

Civilian Job Openings

• DOJ is seeking a Deputy Director.

• VBA is hiring an Assistant Director.

FROM THE CREW

Last chance. Kick-off FY 2025 with a competitive edge! Become a GovBrew Insider and gain exclusive access to weekly opportunity reports, recompete insights, agency forecasts, and market intelligence that will set you up for success all year long. Now's the perfect time to join—don’t miss out! *Expires October 6 at midnight

M&A CORNER

CACI acquires Applied Insight to boost tech capabilities.

CACI has expanded its tech toolbox by acquiring Applied Insight, a company specializing in cloud, analytics, and cybersecurity solutions. This strategic move enhances CACI's position in handling complex federal missions, especially in cloud and network operations. The acquisition strengthens CACI's ability to support government agencies in modernizing and securing their IT infrastructures. Read more

Cadmus expands digital capabilities with Ventera acquisition.

Cadmus has acquired digital firm Ventera, bolstering its expertise in digital transformation, organizational change, and strategic communications. Ventera builds transformative digital platforms for government agencies and departments as well as blue-chip private sector companies in the healthcare, finance, media, and communications markets. Read more

SHOWER THOUGHTS 🚿

1. China made a new spacesuit. With a design reminiscent of ancient Chinese armor, what makes the new suit special? SOURCE↗︎ 

2. Telegram confirms sharing U.S. user data with law enforcement. Can the company protect user data while navigating legal demands? SOURCE↗︎

3. A Tesla electric aircraft? Musk says there’s a possibility—but how big is the probability? SOURCE↗︎

GROW WITH GOVBREW

Whenever you’re ready, here’s how we can help you:

1. Become a GovBrew Insider to keep your pipeline full. Weekly opportunities, recompete reports, agency forecasts, and much more. Learn more

2. Promote your brand to over 7,100 GovCon professionals by sponsoring this newsletter. Apply here

3. Follow us on LinkedIn for more GovCon coverage.

Share GovBrew → Earn Rewards

Have colleagues who'd like our newsletter too? Click to share or give them your unique referral link (below) and get rewarded when they subscribe.

Or copy and paste this link to others: https://govbrew.co/subscribe?ref=PLACEHOLDER

PS: You have referred 0 people so far

TRIVIA ANSWER ⭐️

$1,234 — At the beginning of 2019, Social Security paid an average monthly disability benefit of about $1,234 to all disabled workers. That is barely enough to keep a beneficiary above the 2018 poverty level ($12,140 annually). (Source: SSA)