Bid guide
How to bid on Infrared Focal Plane Arrays for DARPA
What DARPA is buying and why it matters
The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is conducting market research on current and emerging Infrared (IR) Focal Plane Arrays (FPAs) and related technologies. They are interested in both staring and scanning arrays that operate in the 3–14 µm range.
DARPA wants to understand the performance, cost, coverage, and size of these arrays, as well as the potential system quantities and their use across land, maritime, air, and space platforms. This information will help DARPA plan for potential future advanced sensing programs.
Key dates and what happens at the deadline
This Request for Information (RFI) was published on July 17, 2026. Responses are due by August 14, 2026, at 1:00 PM ET.
This is a market research effort only. Submitting information does not guarantee a future contract or funding. DARPA is gathering data to inform potential future program developments, not soliciting proposals for immediate awards.
Who this opportunity suits
This opportunity is suitable for businesses involved in the development, manufacturing, or research of infrared focal plane arrays and related advanced sensing technologies. Firms with expertise in 3–14 µm staring and scanning arrays, and those with insights into their performance, cost, and integration into various platforms, would find this relevant.
This falls under the professional services category, specifically for companies with technical expertise in advanced sensor technology.
How to respond
To access the full details and respond to this RFI, you will need to view the original source on the portal. Click the “View original source” link. If the first click takes you to the portal’s homepage, click the link again to go directly to the bid.
You may need to create a free account on the portal to view all documents, though this is not always required for every bid.
Tips for preparing a competitive response
When responding to an RFI, focus on providing clear, concise, and factual information. Since this is market research, emphasize the capabilities and specifications of your existing or emerging technologies without making sales pitches.
Clearly address all aspects DARPA is interested in, such as FPA size, performance parameters, cost considerations, and potential applications. Provide specific data where possible to demonstrate your understanding and capabilities in infrared focal plane arrays.
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.