POSEIDON (QGM-73A)

The POSEIDON (QGM-73A) program is a Major Defense Acquisition Program operating under the Major Capability Acquisition pathway. Based on the contract data and descriptions, the program appears to center on the P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft, which provides maritime patrol, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities for naval operations. The program encompasses both aircraft procurement and associated support systems.

The contract awards associated with this program range from $2.9 million to $5.5 billion, with periods of performance spanning from one year to nearly 20 years. The largest contract, valued at approximately $5.5 billion, was awarded to The Boeing Company for full rate production long lead materials, with major subcontractors including Rockwell International, Honeywell, Palomar Products, and Northrop Grumman. Other contracted efforts include commercial common spares procurement, technical and engineering support through SeaPort-e, and spiral development analysis. The Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) and Naval Sea Systems Command appear to be the primary contracting authorities. None of the contracts utilized small business set-asides, and the pricing arrangements varied between Firm Fixed Price, Fixed Price Incentive, and Cost Plus Fixed Fee structures.