Posted on 05/01/2012 12:17:39 PM PDT by Steve Peacock
Transportation of U.S. troops and cargo between Germany and Africa just became more lucrative for Cartersville, Ga.-based Phoenix Air Group, which yesterday—without needing to compete for the endeavor—received a six-month contract extension to provide such services.
The U.S. Transportation Command (TRANSCOM) in 2009 initially selected Phoenix Air to provide “Fixed Wing Airlift Services” through March 31, 2012. The Firm Fixed Price Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (ID/IQ) contract, then-valued at $26 million, has been modified to reflect the new delivery date through September 30. It did not disclose the cost of the contract modification.
TRANSCOM explained in “A Justification For Other Than Full And Open Competition,” or JOFOC, document that this action was necessary in order to provide continued, critical assistance to the U.S. African Command. AFRICOM, as it is known, “conducts sustained security engagement through military-to-military programs, military-sponsored activities, and other military operations as directed to promote a stable and secure African environment in support of U.S. foreign policy.”
Other vendors—specifically, Aerodynamics, Inc., and Berry Aviation Ltd.—“expressed interest” in competing for this acquisition, responding to market research begun late last year; however, those companies must wait for future opportunities while their eligibility is determined. TRANSCOM claimed that if it launched a new solicitation:
Unacceptable delays will occur and a wide range of programs and activities that help African states meet their goals of building capable and professional militaries that are subordinate to civilian authority, respect human rights, and adhere to the rule of law will be put in jeopardy, if modification to extend the current contract is not executed.
Aircraft used on behalf of the Stuttgart-based AFRICOM carry upwards of eight passengers and 4,800 pounds of cargo for unspecified missions across the Command’s area of responsibility, according to the document.
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