September 11, 2024

FirstSource III awards, USAF $5.4B Combat AF Support awards, GDIT buys Iron EagleX, HII’s new nuke team VP, GSA Ascend program, Guide Challenge

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GovBrew
September 11, 2024

QUICK HITS

  • A possible government shutdown is on the horizon: Contractors are preparing for it. How will you get paid?

  • Don’t miss this event: 3rd Annual govmates FY End Fiesta Networking event is Sept 18. Come for the tacos, leave with opps. Register here.

  • GIDE Challenge: CDAO is seeking new vendors for contested logistics.

  • DHS FirstSource III: ITVAR Functional Category awards announced. Five categories and 14 different awardees.

DEFENSE & AEROSPACE

DOD CIO rolls out policy to rein in IT systems access.

The DOD CIO is tightening the reins on IT systems access with a new policy aimed at reducing risks and improving oversight. This move centralizes control over user privileges, focusing on security and operational efficiency across the department. Fewer loopholes, more accountability. Read more

DOD’s “Zero Trust” assessment: A new cybersecurity standard.

The director of DOD’s Zero Trust Portfolio Mgmt Office said officials are working closely with a range of industry partners and representatives, including the Cloud Security Alliance, to pinpoint compliant capabilities that can accelerate DOD components’ paths to fully achieving zero trust. Read more

Army refines software acquisition strategy despite industry’s concerns.

The Army is currently revamping its approach to purchasing and managing modern software solutions to better align with commercial standards. However, following mixed feedback from industry, the service is making adjustments to its strategy in hopes of addressing some of the concerns raised. Read more

ICYMI:

Defense Contract Awards

  • USAF chose 7 contractors for $5.4B Combat Air Force Support deal. Winners: Airborne Tactical Advantage, Blue Air Training, Coastal Defense, Draken International, Tactical Air Support, Top Aces, and Valkyrie Aero.

  • Carahsoft, Collabralink, and DLT booked an Appian Products deal.

  • Battelle won a DOD Improved Nerve Agent Countermeasure Development contract.

  • Cubic Defense bagged an encrypted ACMI systems contract.

Follow the Defense Leaders

Defense Job Openings

CHART

DOD identified 23 materials in shortfall as priorities in the FY23 biennial requirements report. Eight of the 23 materials had no domestic sources, 11 had a single domestic source, and four more had more than one domestic source. The table above illustrates the shortfall and associated sources of supply for the eight prioritized materials without a domestic supplier in FY23. (Source: GAO)

INTEL COMMUNITY

ODNI’s budget increase sparks questions in GovCon sector.

With significant allocations and strategic shifts, contractors are left wondering how ODNI’s budget changes will impact their operations and opportunities. Many of these questions will be answered at the Potomac Officers Club’s 2024 Intel Summit on Sept. 19. Read more

ICYMI:

CIVILIAN

GSA details vision for cloud migration with “Ascend Program.”

The GSA is breaking down its plans for the Ascend Cloud Program, aimed at simplifying cloud acquisition for federal agencies. By streamlining procurement and offering multi-cloud solutions, Ascend hopes to make cloud migration smoother and more secure. Read more

Lawmakers criticize VA budget gaps, call for EHR system reforms.

Lawmakers are none too pleased with the VA’s budget shortfalls and are demanding changes to the electronic health record (EHR) system. With costly delays and performance issues piling up, Congress is pressuring the VA for solutions—quick fixes not included. Can they get this mission-critical system on track? Read more

House passes bill to enhance “Congressional Research Service Data” access.

The House just approved a bill aiming to streamline access to the Congressional Research Service's data. The goal? Improve how lawmakers and staff dig into federal policies and programs. It’s like a research boost for making decisions. Read more

ICYMI:

  • The Boeing Starliner may have had problems on its way home—but it’s back!

  • NRC enters “testing” phase with Azure OpenAI integration.

  • DHS Cyber Review Board teases new cybersecurity initiative.

  • Commerce to propose rule mandating AI dual-use reporting from U.S. industry.

Civilian Contracts Awards

Follow Civilian Leaders

Civilian Job Openings

M&A CORNER

GDIT expands cybersecurity and intel capabilities with Iron EagleX acquisition.

General Dynamics Information Technology (GDIT) has bolstered its cybersecurity and intelligence capabilities by acquiring Iron EagleX, Inc. The move enhances GDIT’s ability to serve national security clients through advanced IT, cyber defense, and engineering solutions. Read more

SHOWER THOUGHTS 🚿

  1. Musk reveals his Neuralink plans to the FDA: Higher bandwidth, next-gen implants, and new products that aim to revolutionize neurotech. SOURCE↗︎ 

  2. “God of Chaos” asteroid threat looms: Scary new concerns over potential Earth impact on Friday the 13th.  SOURCE↗︎

  3. After 8 months in orbit, China’s spacecraft is finally home! Details about its mission remains a mystery. SOURCE↗︎

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