Welcome to today's Defense Business Briefing, your weekly roundup of the latest defense industry news.
Defense industrial base deemed 'critical' amid COVID-19 shutdowns
Pentagon acquisition chief Ellen Lord sent a memo to defense contractors laying out which ones are deemed "critical" by the U.S. government and therefore expected to maintain their normal work schedules, despite the national emergency over COVID-19.
New Pentagon memo increases progress payment rates in response to COVID-19 outbreak
In a memo, the Defense Department says it is immediately increasing progress payment rates to respond to the coronavirus outbreak.
Geurts directs Navy contracting officers to increase cash flow in response to COVID-19
The Navy's acquisition executive is ordering contracting officers to take steps to increase cash flow to contractors and their supply chains in response to the coronavirus pandemic, according to a memo obtained by Inside Defense.
New memo offers contractors 'same maximum telework flexibilities'
In a new memo, a top Pentagon acquisition official instructs the services and other defense organizations to offer contractors the same telework flexibilities extended to Pentagon servicemembers and civilians.
Boeing to suspend production in Puget Sound area, including P-8 and KC-46A work
Boeing's planned two-week suspension of its Puget Sound-area production operations will include P-8 and KC-46A work, a spokesman confirmed.
Oshkosh withdraws fiscal 2020 financial expectations
Oshkosh said while it is suspending access equipment production in North America next week, its defense segment is still working.
Northrop Grumman says coronavirus pandemic 'could have a material adverse effect' on business
Northrop Grumman filed a new document with the Securities and Exchange Commission warning that the ongoing coronavirus pandemic could take a toll on the company.
General Dynamics says coronavirus could hurt business
General Dynamics in a filing added the coronavirus outbreak as a potential business risk.
Northrop Grumman confirms coronavirus case at Florida facility
Northrop Grumman said an employee in the company's Melbourne, FL, facility has tested positive for COVID-19 and the contractor is now disinfecting the workspaces used by that employee.
Pentagon seeks comment on extended contractor reporting of IT counterfeit components
The Defense Department is seeking public comment on extending reporting requirements for contractors under acquisition rules related to the purchasing of information technology services and products, including measures to protect against counterfeit components that could pose cybersecurity risks
NDIA appeals to top House, Senate authorizers
The National Defense Industrial Association is calling on the leaders of the House and Senate Armed Services committees to address the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic on the defense industrial base.
Trade organizations call on Congress to assist government contractors
Ten trade organizations sent a letter to congressional leaders seeking language in pending relief legislation that will help government contractors.
AIA calls for increased liquidity, workforce support
The Aerospace Industries Association is seeking several key steps, including temporary investments and workforce support measures, to help companies weather the coronavirus crisis.
PSC urges OMB to issue teleworking guidance for contractors
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Professional Services Council is calling on the Office of Management and Budget to release guidance to federal contracting officers that addresses teleworking for contractors.
DOD begins daily COVID-19 call with defense industry associations
The Pentagon has begun hosting a daily phone call with defense industry associations to discuss updates to the U.S. government's response to the COVID-19 outbreak and to obtain feedback on impacts to the defense industry.
Leidos CEO says coronavirus doesn't damage long-term appeal of L3Harris security business
Leidos remains convinced L3Harris Technologies' security detection and automation businesses will provide growth, despite the potential for travel slowdowns related to the coronavirus.
Leidos CEO says company has not lost any top Dynetics employees
The top 50 employees at Dynetics have all stayed with Leidos since Leidos acquired the company at the end of January, according to Leidos' chief executive.
GAO rejects bid protest over Army program
The Government Accountability Office has denied a protest over an Army task order for systems engineering and technical support services.
The week ahead
The week ahead is especially sparse because of the COVID-19 outbreak, though the Senate Armed Services Committee is slated to hold a hearing on the Army's budget.
DOD taking 'phased approach' to controversial contract financing study
The Pentagon plans to take a "phased approach" to completing a contract financing study next year that could change the way defense contractors get paid.