Robbie H. Phifer

Robbie H. Phifer serves as a Contract Specialist within the Missile Defense Agency (MDA), where he plays a critical role in executing complex acquisitions for advanced missile defense systems. Responsible for managing the full lifecycle of contract actions—from solicitation through award and administration—Phifer supports MDA’s mission to develop, test, and field integrated, layered defense architectures. His portfolio primarily encompasses research and development contracts for sensor modernization, midcourse and terminal-phase interception technologies, and engineering services critical to guided weapon system integration. He works closely with technical stakeholders to ensure contractual requirements align with operational needs and national security objectives. Phifer maintains consistent procurement relationships with leading defense prime contractors, including Lockheed Martin Corp. and Northrop Grumman Systems Corporation, which provide core capabilities in missile defense system design, integration, and testing. He also collaborates with Jacobs Technology Inc. for specialized engineering and technical support services. These partnerships are characterized by long-term, high-complexity engagements requiring rigorous technical oversight, compliance with defense acquisition regulations, and stringent performance metrics tied to system readiness and interoperability. His contracting approach reflects a strong preference for unrestricted competitions, with 95% of awards issued without set-asides, reflecting the highly specialized and national security-sensitive nature of MDA’s requirements. The remaining 5% of awards are designated as Total Small Business Set-Asides under FAR 19.5, demonstrating a measured but intentional commitment to small business participation where technical capability permits. Phifer’s procurement focus is overwhelmingly centered on NAICS 541712 (Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences), with secondary emphasis on NAICS 541330 (Engineering Services). He routinely acquires advanced technical services related to radar signal processing, kinetic and non-kinetic interceptors, command and control architectures, and ballistic missile threat simulation—domains requiring deep expertise in systems engineering and defense innovation.