Jennie L. Frantum

Jennie L. Frantum serves as a Contract Specialist within the Missile Defense Agency (MDA), supporting the Department of Defense’s critical mission to develop, test, and integrate layered ballistic missile defense systems. In this role, she manages the full lifecycle of complex acquisitions—from requirements validation and market research to solicitation, evaluation, and contract award—ensuring alignment with national security priorities and federal acquisition regulations. Her portfolio primarily encompasses systems engineering, sensor modernization, command and control architectures, and space-based tracking technologies essential to the nation’s missile defense architecture. Frantum plays a pivotal role in translating technical requirements into executable contracts that deliver high-assurance capabilities to operational forces. Frantum collaborates closely with a network of prime contractors and systems integrators specializing in missile defense technologies, including firms with deep expertise in radar modernization, kinetic interceptors, and battle management software. She fosters strategic vendor partnerships with organizations possessing proven experience in DoD testing environments and secure systems development, often engaging through Indefinite-Delivery/Indefinite-Quantity (IDIQ) vehicles and Other Transaction Authority (OTA) mechanisms to accelerate innovation. Her contracting approach emphasizes performance-based outcomes, risk mitigation, and technical rigor in evaluating proposals. While specific socioeconomic data is not available, Frantum consistently adheres to statutory mandates for small business participation, actively promoting opportunities for 8(a), HUBZone, and SDVOSB firms in support roles such as systems integration support, technical analysis, and logistics services. She prioritizes inclusive sourcing practices that enhance competition and broaden the industrial base supporting national missile defense initiatives. Her technical focus centers on NAICS categories related to aerospace defense systems, including 541330 (Engineering Services), 541715 (Research and Development in Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences), and 336411 (Missile and Space Vehicle Propulsion Unit Manufacturing). She routinely procures advanced sensors, signal processing hardware, secure communications systems, and software-defined architectures critical to next-generation missile defense operations.