Anthony J Gatlin

Anthony J. Gatlin serves as a Contract Specialist within the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), where he plays a critical role in managing the acquisition lifecycle for naval aviation systems. Responsible for planning, soliciting, awarding, and administering complex contracts, Gatlin supports NAVAIR’s mission to develop, test, and sustain advanced aircraft, avionics, and weapons systems for the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. His portfolio primarily encompasses major defense procurement actions related to aircraft manufacturing, propulsion systems, and mission-critical avionics, ensuring alignment with technical specifications, regulatory compliance, and lifecycle sustainment requirements. He works closely with engineering and program management teams to translate operational needs into enforceable contractual obligations. Gatlin maintains consistent procurement relationships with leading defense prime contractors including Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, Lockheed Martin Corporation, and General Atomics, partnering with organizations that deliver high-performance aerospace platforms and integrated subsystems. His contracting approach emphasizes performance-based outcomes, technical risk mitigation, and long-term sustainment support, often involving multi-year, performance-based service contracts and cost-reimbursement arrangements. He collaborates with vendors to ensure compliance with defense acquisition regulations and technical data rights requirements, fostering a contractor ecosystem focused on innovation and mission readiness. Gatlin’s contracting activity reflects a strong preference for full and open competition, with 100% of his awards issued without socioeconomic set-asides. This indicates a focus on technical capability and mission-critical performance over socioeconomic criteria, aligning with NAVAIR’s priority to procure the most capable systems available in the industrial base. While small business participation is not formally structured through set-asides in his portfolio, he adheres to all applicable small business subcontracting plan requirements. His primary procurement focus lies within NAICS 336411 (Aircraft Manufacturing), 336413 (Other Aircraft Parts and Auxiliary Equipment Manufacturing), and 336412 (Aircraft Engine and Engine Parts Manufacturing), with additional activity in semiconductor and precision instrument manufacturing. He specializes in acquiring integrated flight systems, radar and electronic warfare components, and mission-critical control systems essential to carrier-based and expeditionary aviation platforms.