Bid guide
How to bid on Distributed Decentralized Control & Estimation for DEPT of Defense
What the agency is buying and why it matters
The Department of Defense, through DARPA IPTO, is looking for new and innovative solutions in decentralized and distributed command-and-control technologies. This work is important because it aims to improve how various combat systems, such as sensing grids, unmanned aircraft, and satellite constellations, operate together without a central command.
Vendors should care about this opportunity if they have expertise in modeling, simulation, or software-defined approaches that can enhance the coordination and control of diverse military assets. This is a chance to contribute to advanced defense capabilities.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
This opportunity was published on August 10, 2026. The deadline for submissions is July 31, 2027, at 7:59 PM ET. This is a long shopping period, indicating DARPA is actively seeking solutions throughout this time.
At the deadline, DARPA will conclude its active search for solutions through the ERIS Marketplace. Ensure your submission is complete and uploaded well before the final minute to avoid any technical issues.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is best suited for firms with strong capabilities in professional services, particularly those specializing in advanced technology, research and development, and defense contracting. Companies with expertise in areas like artificial intelligence, machine learning, software engineering, and systems integration for complex military applications will find this relevant.
Specifically, firms that can offer solutions for decentralized and distributed command and control, especially those involving heterogeneous combat agents, sensing grids, unmanned aircraft systems, satellite constellations, collaborative aircraft, or ground/surface capabilities, are ideal.
How to respond
To access the full details of this solicitation, you will need to open the opportunity on the portal. Sometimes the first click might take you to the portal's homepage, so if that happens, simply click the link again to go directly to the bid.
You may need to create a free account on the portal to view all the necessary documents. For some bids, an account is not required to view documents, but it is good practice to be prepared.
Practical tips for preparing a competitive response
Given the nature of this DARPA solicitation, focus on clearly articulating the innovative aspects of your proposed solution. Highlight how your approach specifically addresses the challenges of decentralized and distributed command and control for heterogeneous combat agents.
Provide concrete examples or conceptual frameworks of how your modeling, simulation, or software-defined approaches would function in real-world scenarios involving sensing grids, unmanned aircraft, or satellite constellations. Emphasize the potential impact and benefits of your solution to the Department of Defense. Ensure your proposal is well-organized, easy to understand, and directly responds to the stated technical interests of DARPA IPTO.
See the live bid — deadline, agency details, and how to respond
Dates and requirements can change via addenda; always verify on the bid page and at the original source before responding.
View this bid on BiddingSimpleThis guide was prepared by BiddingSimple from the solicitation’s public posting. It is not official guidance from Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA); the original posting controls.