Richard Waterstreet

Richard Waterstreet serves as a key procurement lead at the Naval Research Laboratory, supporting the agency’s mission to advance foundational research and development for naval and national security systems. He manages complex acquisitions in physical sciences, engineering, and advanced instrumentation, focusing on high-precision sensors, electronic warfare components, signal processing systems, and autonomous navigation technologies. His work ensures that cutting-edge scientific capabilities are rapidly transitioned into operational maritime platforms through agile contracting methods aligned with DoD research and development priorities. Waterstreet typically handles research contracts under FAR Part 35 and other R&D-specific authorities, often coordinating with technical stakeholders to define performance-based requirements. He maintains consistent relationships with a core group of specialized contractors, including Assurance Technology Corp, L3Harris NexGen Communications LLC, Envisioneering Inc, Integration Innovation Inc, and Analex Corporation. These vendors are selected for their proven expertise in advanced instrumentation, embedded systems, and mission-critical software integration. Waterstreet’s contracting approach emphasizes technical capability over cost alone, fostering long-term partnerships with firms that demonstrate deep domain knowledge in naval electronics and sensor development. His procurement patterns reflect a preference for experienced, technically capable contractors capable of delivering under tight developmental timelines. Waterstreet’s contracting portfolio shows a strong preference for open competition, with 81.3% of awards issued without set-aside restrictions. The remaining 18.8% are allocated as total small business set-asides under FAR 19.5, indicating a measured but deliberate commitment to small business participation without compromising technical rigor. While he does not prioritize 8(a), HUBZone, or SDVOSB set-asides, his use of small business set-asides reflects a strategic intent to cultivate innovation from agile, niche technology providers. His primary procurement focus lies in NAICS 541715 (Research and Development in Physical and Engineering Sciences), accounting for nearly 70% of his activity, followed by instrument manufacturing (334515) and computer facilities management (541513). He procures advanced test equipment, signal analysis platforms, and secure data acquisition systems, reflecting deep technical expertise in electronic systems development for maritime applications.