The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Strategic Technology Office (STO) has issued the Strategic Technology Office-wide Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) HR001125S0001 to solicit proposals for innovative research that enables revolutionary advances in science, devices, and systems for national security applications. This BAA specifically excludes research that results in incremental improvements and instead seeks groundbreaking technological advancements. The solicitation is open for proposals on a rolling basis until October 31, 2025.

DARPA's STO mission focuses on developing mission-driven, proof-of-concept systems that enhance U.S. military and national security capabilities across all domains, including air, space, sea, and land. The office seeks to deliver trusted, disruptive technologies for today’s warfighters while simultaneously developing breakthrough technologies for future battlespaces. STO’s focus areas are broad and include acoustic communication, artificial intelligence, autonomy, cyber operations, directed energy, electromagnetic warfare, robotics, photonics, space-based technologies, and tactical operations.

Eligible applicants include U.S. and non-U.S. organizations, such as small businesses, universities, and research institutions. Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs), University Affiliated Research Centers (UARCs), and U.S. government entities must confirm eligibility before applying. While Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), small businesses, and minority institutions are encouraged to apply, no specific funding set-asides are designated for these groups.

The submission process includes an optional Abstract Submission Phase, which allows proposers to receive feedback before submitting a full proposal. Abstracts and full proposals may be submitted at any time until October 31, 2025, at 11:59 PM ET. Proposals must address mission-driven technical advancements and should be structured to align with DARPA’s investment priorities.

Evaluation criteria prioritize Overall Scientific and Technical Merit, Potential Contribution and Relevance to the DARPA Mission, and Cost Realism. Proposals should demonstrate a highly innovative approach, technical feasibility, clear alignment with DARPA’s mission, and a strong plan for technology transition.

For inquiries, proposers may contact HR001125S0001@darpa.mil. The mailing address for submissions and inquiries is DARPA/STO, ATTN: HR001125S0001, 675 North Randolph Street, Arlington, VA 22203-2114. Additional information and active solicitations can be found at https://www.darpa.mil/work-with-us/opportunities.