Recent Trends in Government Contracts M&A

Summary

While multi-billion dollar transactions grab headlines—such as the combination of Computer Sciences Corp.’s public sector business with SRA International, the merger of Leidos Holdings, Inc. with Lockheed Martin’s Information Systems & Global Solutions business, and Harris Corporation’s acquisition of Exelis Inc.—there are a few trends in federal government contracts mergers and acquisitions that have flown under the radar. The use of indefinite delivery / indefinite quantity (IDIQ) vehicles is widespread in the government contract space. Transferring these contract vehicles involves issues that buyers and sellers alike should be aware of to stay one step ahead of the market. In this article we discuss these issues and also highlight certain compliance issues and potential pitfalls that may occur in government contracts transactions.