Debra Ann Telford

Debra Ann Telford serves as a Contract Specialist within the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), where she plays a pivotal role in managing the acquisition lifecycle for critical naval aviation systems. Responsible for executing complex contracts under the Department of Defense’s procurement framework, she specializes in the procurement of aircraft components, avionics, and mission-critical support systems essential to maintaining air superiority for the Navy and Marine Corps. Her work directly supports NAVAIR’s mission of lifecycle management—from research and development through sustainment—ensuring timely delivery of technically sophisticated capabilities to fleet operators. Telford maintains consistent contracting relationships with leading defense prime contractors, including Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, Lockheed Martin Corporation, and General Atomics, with whom she collaborates on the acquisition of advanced aircraft platforms, weapons integration systems, and logistics support infrastructure. Her procurement approach emphasizes performance-based contracting and technical compliance, fostering long-term partnerships with vendors capable of delivering high-reliability aerospace solutions under stringent military specifications. Her contracting portfolio reflects a strong preference for full and open competition, with 100% of her awards issued without socioeconomic set-asides. This indicates a focus on technical capability and mission readiness over socioeconomic preferences, aligning with NAVAIR’s priority to source the most capable industrial partners for mission-critical systems. Telford’s primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 336413 (Other Aircraft Parts and Auxiliary Equipment Manufacturing), encompassing avionics, flight control systems, and mission-specific hardware. She also routinely handles acquisitions under NAICS 336411 (Aircraft Manufacturing) and 334511 (Aeronautical System and Instrument Manufacturing), demonstrating deep expertise in aerospace engineering domains. Her work ensures the integration of next-generation technologies into carrier-based and expeditionary aviation fleets, supporting the Navy’s modernization imperatives.