The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is soliciting proposals for the FLexible networking Using Intelligent Dialecting (FLUID) program, aimed at enhancing Command, Control, Computing, Communications, Cyber, Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance and Targeting (C5ISRT) systems under compromised network conditions. The program seeks innovative solutions to reduce communication load without sacrificing functionality during Degraded, Disrupted, Intermittent, and Limited (DDIL) conditions. Outlined in this comprehensive solicitation, the FLUID initiative comprises two phases over 18 months with multiple technical evaluation events (TEs) to assess advancements. Proposals must address significant technical challenges and provide a clear understanding of the system's operational context. Participants may receive awards through an Other Transaction for Prototypes agreement, with a focus on using commercial technologies and demonstrating incremental improvements without introducing new complexities. Key metrics for evaluation include load reduction (LR) and semantic similarity (SS) across various communication applications, further defining performance objectives at distinct testing milestones. The solicitation emphasizes collaboration between performers and military transition partners, ensuring practical application of developed technologies. Prospective applicants are encouraged to form teams and adhere to detailed guidelines regarding proposal submission, eligibility, intellectual property rights, and compliance with regulatory standards.

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is soliciting innovative solutions through the FLexible networking Using Intelligent Dialecting (FLUID) program. This initiative aims to enhance Command, Control, Computing, Communications, Cyber, Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance, and Targeting (C5ISRT) systems to operate under Degraded, Disrupted, Intermittent, and Limited (DDIL) network conditions. The program seeks to reduce communication load by up to 30dB, enabling effective operation without sacrificing system utility. The program is structured over an 18-month period, divided into two phases, with multiple test events evaluating progress against defined metrics. The required proposals should outline approaches to dynamically reduce system load while maintaining functionality, alongside considerations for cybersecurity and scalability. Key dates include initial submissions in late April 2025, with proposals due around June 13, 2025. Selected proposals may lead to Other Transactions for Prototype agreements and subsequent follow-on awards. The FLUID program reflects DARPA's commitment to improving military communication capabilities amidst challenging operational environments, fostering competition while minimizing administrative burdens on participants.

The FLUID Q&A document addresses the DARPA Program Solicitation 25-14 (Amendment 01) and clarifies various aspects of the solicitation for potential proposers. Key points cover security protocols, including the classification of Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) and procedures for engaging U.S. university subcontractors. It explicitly states that fundamental research is not permitted under the program. For proposal logistics, the document defines guidelines for cost proposals, team changes, submission formats, and encryption requirements for CUI. It emphasizes that all technical solutions presented must conform to established constraints and will be evaluated based on specified criteria. Critical technical queries related to testing events, application interfaces, and network operational conditions are answered, detailing expectations for scalability, data handling, and system capabilities. The overarching purpose of this document is to elucidate the requirements and expectations for participants in the FLUID program, ensuring that all submissions are in alignment with the objectives set by DARPA while protecting sensitive information throughout the process. Detailed specifications regarding technical performance, application protocols, and expected outcomes are also highlighted to guide proposers effectively.