Space Shuttle: External Tank Procurement Does Not Comply With Competition in Contracting Act
NSIAD-89-62
Published: Dec 28, 1988. Publicly Released: Jan 03, 1989.
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Highlights
In response to a congressional request, GAO reviewed the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA) competitive procurement plans for the development of space shuttle advanced solid rocket motors and external fuel tanks to determine whether NASA complied with the Competition in Contracting Act (CICA).
Recommendations
Recommendations for Executive Action
| Agency Affected | Recommendation | Status |
|---|---|---|
| National Aeronautics and Space Administration | The Administrator, NASA, should direct the contracting officer to comply with the provisions of CICA. The contracting officer should seek full and open competition in awarding the tank fabrication contract. However, if the contracting officer determines that other than competitive procedures are warranted by current circumstances, he should prepare a justification, as required by CICA, and obtain the required approvals before awarding the contract. |
Closed – Not Implemented
NASA disagreed with the GAO Office of General Counsel's opinion.
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Topics
Contracting officersEquipment contractsImproper award of contractIrregular procurementNoncomplianceSole source procurementStatutory lawProcurementSolicitationsCompetitive procurement