Lightweight Universal Codec
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), specifically its Information Processing Techniques Office (IPTO), has issued a Special Notice for the forthcoming Lightweight Universal Codec (LUC) program. This notice aims to inform the public about additional research areas of interest related to developing a universal encoder-decoder (codec). This is for informational and planning purposes only; no submissions will be accepted against this notice.
Program Goal & Scope
The LUC program seeks to develop a universal encoder-decoder capable of sending and receiving information using any known or future communication error correction code. Leveraging DARPA's groundbreaking Guessing Random Additive Noise Decoding (GRAND) study, the program aims to create an adaptive error correction codec capable of multiple on-the-fly changes to error correction codes. This involves developing an easily updatable encoder that pairs with a GRAND-implementing decoder. The resulting codec will incorporate the decoder's GRAND noise model and other operating factors into its code selection process for link budget and task/mission optimization.
Expected Outcomes & Evaluation
Integration of these codecs into existing communication technologies is expected to demonstrate improved efficiency, security, throughput, and interoperability through record-setting low-power decoding and adaptive, dynamic forward error correction. Success will be evaluated based on code universality, link budget improvement solely from the codec, and communication system performance in heterogeneous network environments.
Implementation & Integration
To maximize benefits and technology proliferation, the program will operate at an unclassified level, with performers' target implementations not exceeding Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). Performers will select their own target communication system(s) for integration, identifying candidates that demonstrate the greatest or most impactful improvements through LUC implementation.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Special Notice (AC12 - National Defense R&D Services; Applied Research)
- Set-Aside: None specified (Informational Notice)
- Published Date: June 5, 2026
- Response Date (Informational): June 19, 2026
Additional Notes
This notice does not constitute a solicitation or Request for Information (RFI). A formal solicitation, if released, will be made available on SAM.gov. DARPA will not accept submissions against this notice. For inquiries, contact the BAA Coordinator.