Victor Suarez

A review of 2024 in DoD Acquisition and Sustainment by William LaPlante, Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment. Examples of building resilience include: Joint Production Accelerator Cell (JPAC) and its impact on multiple weapons systems including Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile (JASSM), Long-Range Anti-Ship Mis­sile (LRASM), Tomahawk, Harpoon, and F-16. Regional Sustainment Framework (RSF), which established with international allies & partners "a distrib­uted maintenance, repair, and over­haul (MRO) network placed closer geographically to the point of opera­tional need." Publishing of the first evert National Defense Industrial Strategy (NDIS) in order to "guide genera­tional change toward a more robust, resilient, and modernized defense in­dustrial ecosystem..." Competitive Advantage Pathfinders (CAPs), "which employ modular open systems approaches and cross-Service integration to streamline development and fielding." Re-energizing nuclear and biodefense capabilities through work by the Nuclear Weapons Council (NWC) and the Biodefense Council (BDC). #defenseindustry #Acquisitionreform https://lnkd.in/eDrypNGy 

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DoD rule-makers have been busy with proposed rules for DFARS. Those of you with a NAICS code that begins with 5416--management, scientific, and technical consulting services NAICS--will want to pay attention to this first rule in particular... Preventing Conflicts of Interest for Certain Consulting Services (DFARS Case 2024-D007) - Proposes amending DFARS to-- ▶ implement Section 812 of the FY24 NDAA which prohibits DoD from awarding contracts assigned a North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) code beginning with 5416 to offerors who hold contracts that involve consulting services with certain covered foreign entities. ▶ add a new solicitation provision in which an offeror certifies whether the offeror, its subsidiaries, or affiliates hold a contract for consulting services with one or more covered foreign entities and whether the offeror maintains a conflict-of-interest mitigation plan that meets certain requirements. ▶ requires that if the offeror, its subsidiaries, or affiliates hold such a contract and the offeror is selected for award, the offeror may submit its existing conflict-of-interest mitigation plan, which will be incorporated into a contract resulting from the solicitation. The provision is prescribed for use in solicitations assigned a NAICS code beginning with 5416 that involve consulting services. (https://lnkd.in/gCdMD7D4) DoD Cost or Pricing Data Reporting Requirements (DFARS Case 2022-D004) - Would amend DFARS to-- ▶ require offerors to submit data other than certified cost or pricing data upon contracting officer request. ▶  establish a $2 million threshold for the Truthful Cost or Pricing Data statute requirements with respect to contract modifications, subcontracts, and modifications to subcontracts.  ▶ require that contract modifications to reflect the revised threshold be executed “as soon as practicable.” The proposed rule implements these changes via several proposed new clauses. (https://lnkd.in/gfNcW2rR) Public Access to Results of Federally Funded Research (DFARS Case 2020-D028) - Proposes two new clauses that require contractors with contracts that include fundamental research to develop and maintain a data management plan and to submit final peer-reviewed manuscripts to the Defense Technical Information Center’s publicly accessible repository. (https://lnkd.in/g7bDcij6) Comments for all proposed rules are due on 11/25/2024. Instructions to comment are found at each permalink.

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Embracing uncertainty as a catalyst for growth. Change is never easy, but it’s inevitable—and it often holds the keys to our greatest opportunities. Across the federal government, we find ourselves at the cusp of a new chapter. While transitions may bring questions and challenges, they also open doors for innovation, fresh perspectives, and breaking down barriers that once seemed insurmountable. In times like these, it’s vital to approach uncertainty with a mindset of growth. Change challenges us to rethink old frameworks, adapt to new realities, and forge stronger connections across teams and organizations. Whether you're in the public or private sector, this is a moment to lean into the possibilities. Let’s ask ourselves: What new paths can we pave? What untapped ideas can we bring forward? And how can we collaborate to build something even better for the future? Transitions may test us, but they also give us the chance to lead with courage, curiosity, and a commitment to progress. What opportunities do you see on the horizon during this season of change?

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🚨 🚨 🚨 I want to share a recent report for FY23 U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs expenditures. 🚨 🚨 🚨   The National Center for Veterans Analysis and Statistics (NCVAS) publishes the annual Geographic Distribution of VA Expenditures (GDX) Report. The GDX report provides a breakdown of VA expenditures for each major VA program at the state, county, and Congressional District levels. Of note:   #Texas is the #1StateInTheUS for total Veteran population with 1,534,356 (CA is #2 with 1,487,167).   Bexar County moved ahead of Cook County Government (@Chicago) to #5CountyInTheUS for total Veteran population with 156,023 Veterans (behind #1 Maricopa, AZ; #2 Los Angeles, CA; #3 San Diego, CA; and #4 Harris, TX; I believe we will surpass Harris County in the next 5yrs).   #BexarCounty was the #1CountyInTheUS for total VA expenditure to residents with a total of $2,400,929,000 (that's #BILLIONS; that's across all organizations that process claims for Bexar County residents, so includes us, VA, Texas Veterans Commission, DAV (Disabled American Veterans), Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), etc.)   Bexar County brought in #MoreCompensationAndPension** (see below) money than 33 states / territories in the US!!!   Needless to say, I'm proud of the work this team at Bexar County Department of Military and Veterans Services does for the great people we support in the great community where we live.    Much thanks to the County leadership for the support you provide to us on a recurring basis, and kudos to the great community partners we get to work with on a daily basis! None of this happens without y'all!! #GetBexar #StayBexar #BexarVets #HaveFunMakingADifference #LetsGetToWork **NOTE: The Compensation and Pension (C&P) category includes expenditures for the following categories: compensation payments, pension payments, Dependency and Indemnity Compensation, and burial allowances. Most expenditures reported in this category reflect monthly payments made to individuals. Retroactive payments and one-time payments are also included. U.S. Army Soldier For Life | Marine For Life Network | Texas Workforce Commission | Texas Veterans Land Board | Texas Veterans Network Powered by Combined Arms | City of San Antonio | City of San Antonio Military and Veteran Affairs Department | Thomas | Shawn | Charles | Mike | Steven | Calvin | Lloyd | Nancy | Eymi

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New Hub-and-Spokes post! 🚀 Capitalizing on Critical Technologies: DoD's Office of Strategic Capital and its Plan to Secure America’s Strategic Edge Three key stories shaping U.S. defense and Indo-Pacific alliances this week: 1️⃣ DoD's Office of Strategic Capital Unveils 2025 Investment Plan Focused on supporting critical technologies and national security priorities, OSC's new strategy aims to catalyze private investment in sectors crucial to America’s edge. 2️⃣ $3.6B Sale of Air-to-Air Missiles to Japan A significant step in bolstering U.S.-Japan defense cooperation with the sale of AMRAAMs, ensuring the security of U.S. personnel and regional stability. 3️⃣ NSA Jake Sullivan’s Capstone Trip to India Sullivan's visit underscores the growing U.S.-India relationship, focusing on space cooperation, nuclear collaboration, and emerging technologies. #Defense #NationalSecurity #Technology #USIndia #USJapan #Investment #StrategicAlliances https://lnkd.in/euN3a_Bb

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🌟 A Veteran's Perspective: How Data-Driven Support Transforms My VA Experience 🌟 As a proud veteran and beneficiary of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) services, I am continually inspired by the transformative power of data-driven support in enhancing my total business experiences within the VA ecosystem. 🇺🇸💼 The personalized care and seamless journey I have experienced at the VA are a direct result of their strategic use of data analytics. From streamlined healthcare access to tailored educational benefits and career guidance, every interaction is optimized to meet my unique needs as a veteran. 📊💡 Through data-driven insights, the VA ensures that my benefits are processed efficiently, my appointments are scheduled promptly, and my overall well-being is prioritized. The commitment to leveraging data to improve services has not only made my experience as a veteran more convenient but also more meaningful and impactful. 🌟🤝 I am grateful for the VA's dedication to empowering veterans like myself through data-driven support. By continuously refining their services based on data analysis, the VA exemplifies a commitment to excellence and a deep respect for those who have served our country. 🙌🎖️ #VeteranVoices #DataTransforms #CustomerExperience #VAExcellence

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Boosting, because your time is valuable, & Pete & Matt get right to the point with what you need to know. #acquisition #contracting

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🚨 Big Win in GovCon! G2Xchange has the latest on the 5-year, $2.4B SPRUCE IDIQ awarded by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. 🌟 With 10 top-tier companies named out of 33 bidders, this contract is designed to streamline agile product design and delivery services for the VA. 💼 What's SPRUCE? The Secure, Performant, Reliable, and User-Centered Experiences (SPRUCE) contract provides digital solutions that align with VA's mission. Each task order, capped at $50M, brings together expert teams across software development, data science, product support, and more. Check out the full details on how this contract will drive VA’s digital modernization goals by leveraging industry best practices and top professionals! 👉 Check it out here: https://lnkd.in/gav7kUFy G2Xchange | #govcon #VA #SPRUCE

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Jake Sullivan, National Security Advisor, presented the roadmap on the future of U.S. military-industrial development. What really stands out to me is his emphasis on the role of commercial technology, the importance of Silicon Valley, and the need to reform the acquisition process to ensure innovative technologies can be quickly acquired and deployed. This is a crucial step forward in bridging commercial innovation with defense needs. Key points from the roadmap: 1. Ramp Up Production of Key Capabilities: Prioritize long-range munitions, air defense systems, autonomous platforms, and critical stockpiles. A critical munitions acquisition fund could stabilize demand and stockpiling efforts. 2. Strengthen Public-Private Partnerships: Increase production capacity, invest in workforce development, and expand DoD-owned facilities for greater resilience. 3. Accelerate Defense Acquisition Reforms: Rethink traditional processes to welcome nontraditional, innovative tech providers. Collaboration with Silicon Valley and securing new acquisition authorities will be game-changers. 4. Integrate Defense Industrial Bases with Allies: Partner with allies to boost readiness, production capacity, and supply chain resilience, reinforcing deterrence through unified capabilities. 5. Invest in Talent and Leadership: The focus on recruiting and retaining top talent ensures the U.S. military remains unmatched, with personnel who can translate advanced equipment into operational strength. #DefenseInnovation #MilitaryModernization #PublicPrivatePartnerships #SiliconValley #AcquisitionReform #DefenseTech #NationalSecurity #AI #MilitaryIndustrialComplex #InnovationEcosystem #TalentDevelopment

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How can #startups and growing #lifesciences businesses access Defense funding, collaborations and relationships? Find out June 14 at noon! See registration link below. Hear from experts Tim Scott who is CEO of @TEGA and AustinPx and President of Biocom California along with Greg Kapcar and Aditya Girish, PhD — insights on how the conference works, tips to navigate it, and examples of how attending #MHSRS24 can lead to big company growth opportunities. #accesstocapital #governmentfunding

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Are you on your way to #DHITS this week? Check out my G2Xchange report! 👀👀

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Las week I was invited (again) by the DoD to attend the AFSOR 2024 Trust and Influence Program Review on August 12-16, 2024. to be held in Dayton, OH. Department of the Air Force Chief Data and AI Office has been creating a healthy environment where academia and industry jointly with goverment share experiences and insights. Its time to keep moving towards the future of the idea of #workingforhumans #thinkingfromscience and the power of #humath. We should definitively continue creating #aipoweredsolutions with our idea. Universidad EAFIT Innovación EAFIT and #PinkTechnologies powered by #Humath

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Take a look as The Pulse takes a dive into the spending patterns at the Air Force. Watch as we share insights and data on contracts, spending priorities and how the money flows through the Air Force. https://bit.ly/4cdbrxn

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Sneak peek at the next Hatch Report: The Mississippi Army National Guard (MSARNG) has a requirement for six sUASs due to divestment of the RQ-7 Shadow. 7 Jan response deadline. ..................................... Description: Category: Group 1 (non-weaponized, multirotor, under 20 lbs) Capabilities: ISR support, IR/thermal imaging, encrypted communications Compliance: DIU Blue UAS List, NDAA & TAA compliant; Advanced Encryption; Standard Tactical Open Government Architecture (TOGA) compatible. Performance: At least 30 minutes endurance with payload Durability: IP53 certified (dust and rain resistant) ..................................... Thoughts / Questions: Broader Coordination: I suspect other ARNG units are also replacing their RQ-7 Shadows. If so, is there a unified approach to addressing these needs, or is each ARNG unit handling this individually? Additionally, how well-coordinated are these efforts between the Guard and the Active Component? NOTE: There’s an important balance to strike between enabling units to rapidly acquire the capabilities they need and leveraging aggregate demand to drive down costs and simplify logistics. ISR Implications: Are there separate plans to replace the RQ-7 Shadow with a comparable Group-3 UAS? If not, what are the ISR implications? While it’s possible this solicitation is intended for testing and evaluation purposes, the wording strongly suggests these Group 1 sUASs are being positioned as a direct replacement for the Group 3 RQ-7. It’s worth noting that the Army recently selected Red Cat’s small Teal drone for its SSR Tranche II requirement, which closely aligns with the MSARNG’s UAS product description. Additionally, the Army also selected the Ghost X from Anduril Industries Industries and the C-100 from PDW for its Company-Level UAS program, which gets you more range/payload but is still not comparable to the RQ-7. ..................................... Context/Background: In February 2024, the Army announced plans to divest the RQ-7 Shadows by September 2024. This purportedly created an ISR capability gap until 2027, when the Future Tactical Uncrewed Aircraft System (FTUAS) is scheduled to begin Brigade-level deployment. To address this, the Army turned to DIU’s Blue UAS list as a stopgap. However, as of October 2024, no Group-3 offerings appear on the Blue UAS list. Link to Solicitation: https://lnkd.in/ecX3imD2

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If you are a small business owner who is interested in working with the United States Department of Defense, then I recommend reading "Guide to Marketing to DoD," which was produced by the Department of Defense Office of Small Business Programs.

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#DYK that there are a variety of supply chain organizations across the interagency? The Department of Energy, Health & Human Services, Department of the Interior & the US Geological Survey, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Transportation, Department of Commerce, & the Department of Defense all have subordinate units focused on various aspects of #supplychains with different authorities. I think this reflects both how complex & foundational supply chains are to the #economy & national security in the 21st century. Photo below taken yesterday at the Advisory Council for Supply Chain Competitiveness (ACSCC) meeting, where this & other related topics were discussed. #logistics #manufacturing

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