E-8C Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System

The E-8C Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System (JSTARS) is a Category II Major Capability Acquisition program within the Department of Defense. This airborne battle management, command and control, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance platform provides ground and air commanders with situational awareness and targeting support. The program encompasses both the aircraft platform itself as well as associated ground support systems, training systems, and ongoing modernization efforts.

The contract awards associated with this program primarily cover aircraft sustainment, system integration, program management, and various modernization initiatives including radar processor upgrades and communication system improvements. Contract values range from small purchase orders of under $50,000 to major sustainment delivery orders exceeding $200 million, with performance periods typically spanning 1-5 years. Many awards utilize Cost Plus Award Fee or Firm Fixed Price contract types, with minimal use of set-aside designations except for occasional Total Small Business awards. Notable contract efforts include the JSTARS Extended Test Support (JETS) program, Prime Mission Equipment Diminishing Manufacturing Sources (PME DMS) retrofit, and multiple System Improvement Programs. The majority of awards appear to be managed through various Air Force contracting offices, though specific contractor names are not provided in the source material.