46.308 Cost-reimbursement research and development contracts
Source: FAR 46.308 on acquisition.gov
Always include the appropriate inspection clause (52.246-8 or its alternate) in cost-reimbursement R&D contracts to ensure proper oversight of deliverables.
Overview
FAR 46.308 requires contracting officers to include the clause at 52.246-8, "Inspection of Research and Development—Cost-Reimbursement," in solicitations and contracts for research and development (R&D) when the contract's main goal is to deliver end items (not just designs, drawings, or reports) and the contract is cost-reimbursement. The clause ensures proper inspection and acceptance procedures for R&D deliverables. If the contract is no-fee, the Alternate I version of the clause must be used. If the standard clause is impractical, the clause from FAR 46.309 may be substituted if more appropriate. This section ensures that inspection requirements are tailored to the nature of R&D cost-reimbursement contracts, protecting government interests and clarifying contractor obligations.
The contracting officer shall insert the clause at 52.246-8, Inspection of Research and Development-Cost-Reimbursement, in solicitations and contracts for research and development when (a) the primary objective of the contract is the delivery of end items other than designs, drawings, or reports, and (b)a cost-reimbursement contract is contemplated; unless use of the clause is impractical and the clause prescribed in 46.309 is considered to be more appropriate. If it is contemplated that the contract will be on a no-fee basis, the contracting officer shall use the clause with its AlternateI.