RFI-SN-26-44

Request for Information (RFI)

This RFI from DARPA's Tactical Technology Office (TTO) seeks to understand U.S. industry and supplier capabilities for the rapid, large-scale, and affordable manufacturing of counter-air weapon systems. The goal is to inform future DARPA programs by identifying emerging technologies and suppliers that can produce weapons at higher volumes and speeds, and at lower costs, compared to traditional high-end systems.

Respondents should address capabilities in:

• Integrated effector design, manufacturing, and testing, including performance and engagement analysis, with traceability to rapid manufacturing approaches.

• Cost and manufacturing planning for a productionized, designed-for-manufacturing prototype weapon.

• Development of missile models for third-party operational analysis.

• Responses are due by 4:00 PM ET on April 22, 2026.

• Submissions should be white papers, not exceeding six (6) single-sided pages, in English, using 11-point font with 1" margins.

• Electronic submittals in Microsoft Word or PDF format are required.

• Submissions must be labeled with the DARPA special notice number (DARPA-SN-26-44), respondent organization, and white paper title.

• Non-proprietary information is encouraged. Proprietary information must be clearly identified.

• The RFI includes a specific format template in Attachment 2.

• White papers must include a Cover Sheet, Technical Description, and optionally a Graphic Overview Slide and Bibliography/References.

• Unclassified submissions should be sent to DARPA-SN-26-44@darpa.mil. Classified information should not be sent to this address; refer to Attachment 1 - Security for instructions.

DARPA invites submissions from universities, University-Affiliated Research Centers (UARCs), Federally Funded Research and Development Centers (FFRDCs), private companies, public companies, and Government research laboratories.

• This RFI is for information and program planning only and is not a solicitation for proposals.
• Submission is voluntary and does not guarantee a follow-on proposal request.
• DARPA will not reimburse costs incurred in responding to this RFI.
• DARPA is not obligated to acknowledge receipt or provide feedback on submissions.
• DARPA may conduct individual discussions with respondents.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document provides critical security information for potential bidders responding to DARPA Special Notice DARPA-SN-26-44. It outlines requirements for handling Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), Controlled Technical Information (CTI), and classified information in white paper submissions.

• CUI/CTI Handling: Requires appropriate marking, protection, and processing on non-DoD systems in accordance with DoDI 5200.48 and NIST SP 800-171. Bidders must have an authorized information system if processing CUI.
• Classified Submissions: Mandates that all industrial, personnel, and information systems security requirements are met at the appropriate level (e.g., FCL). This includes addressing Automated Information Security (AIS), Certification and Accreditation (C&A), and Foreign Ownership Control and Influence (FOCI) issues.
• Marking Requirements: Classified submissions must be marked according to the governing Security Classification Guide (SCG) and Executive Order 13526. Submissions with suspected classified information require specific "CLASSIFICATION DETERMINATION PENDING" markings.
• Submission Methods: Details procedures for submitting classified and unclassified portions separately or together, including preferred digital methods (email, CD-ROM) and physical mail options for Confidential, Secret, and Top Secret information.
• Coordination: Emphasizes the need to coordinate classified submissions via unclassified email to DARPA-SN-26-44@darpa.mil.

Bidders must carefully review these security requirements to determine their capability to meet them. Failure to comply with CUI or classified information handling and submission procedures may impact the eligibility or evaluation of their white paper. This document is essential for understanding the security protocols necessary to participate in the opportunity.

Form / Attachment / Pricing Sheet

This document, "DARPA-SN-26-44 Attachment #2," serves as a template for bidders to provide required business and technical information for the opportunity.

Business Information Section: Requires details such as:

• Response Title
• Company/Person Name
• Company Registered Address
• Point of Contact (POC) Name, Email, Phone, and Primary Work Location
• Response Classification Level
• Submission Date
• Small business status
• Nontraditional Defense Contractor status
• Facility Clearance and safeguarding level
• Capability to design and build proposed platform
• Commercial and Government entity (CAGE) Code
• Unique Entity Identifier (UEI)

Graphical Overview: Optional, 1 page.

Technical Description (Required, Max 4 pages): This section requires bidders to detail their capabilities in three areas:

1. Integrated missile design, manufacturing, and test, focusing on the integrator role for prototype development, rapid iteration, and manufacturing approaches, including a rapid flight test campaign.
2. Cost and manufacturing planning and analysis for a productionized version of a designed-for-manufacturing prototype weapon.
3. Development of missile models for third-party operational analysis.

References: Optional, Maximum 1 page.

This attachment is critical for bidders as it outlines the specific data and technical details required for their response. Completing this template accurately and thoroughly is essential for proposal preparation and submission. It guides bidders on the expected format and content for demonstrating their qualifications and technical approach.