Expeditionary Power- and Energy-Dense Implementations (ExPEDitions)

DARPA's Expeditionary Power- and Energy-Dense Implementations (ExPEDitions) Program Solicitation seeks innovative solutions for high-energy-density, high-power-density electrically rechargeable batteries and fuel cells. The program, spanning 36 months in two phases, aims to advance foundational cell chemistry, materials, and architectures, leading to prototype batteries at Technology Readiness Level 5-6. Key metrics include specific energy (>2 kWh/kg), peak specific power (>3 kW/kg), and rechargeability (>5000 cycles) by Phase 2. Battery Developers will partner with End Users to integrate prototypes into operational devices. The solicitation specifically excludes primary battery development, basic research without application, and evolutionary improvements. Abstracts are required and evaluated on technical rationale, approach, and ability to meet program milestones. Non-U.S. organizations are ineligible.

This Associate Performer Agreement outlines the terms for collaboration among entities involved in developing high-energy-density, high power-density electrically rechargeable batteries and fuel cells. The agreement emphasizes open information exchange, coordination, and the prevention of duplicated efforts to ensure project success. Performers, including subawardees, commit to protecting proprietary or confidential data received from other Associate Performers, using it solely for the project's development goals. Key responsibilities include maintaining close liaison, fostering an open information network, delineating interface responsibilities, and establishing written agreements for information exchange and prototype delivery. In case of disagreements or delays, the Performer must notify the DARPA DSO Program Manager for corrective action. The agreement also mandates the inclusion of similar protective clauses in all subcontracts requiring access to proprietary information. The specific Associate Performers are yet to be determined.

The document, Appendix A, outlines comprehensive testing protocols for ExPEDitions IV&V (Independent Verification and Validation) regarding cell and chemistry validation, prototype sub-system functional and integration testing, and operational/environmental readiness. For cell validation, tests include performance characterization (capacity, DCIR, HPPC), safety and abuse testing (overcharge, short circuit, thermal stability, mechanical damage), and cycle life and aging assessments. Prototype sub-system testing covers physical and electrical integration, hotel load sustainability, design reference mission simulation, and Battery Management System (BMS) validation. Lastly, operational and environmental readiness involves environmental testing such as vibration, shock, thermal-vacuum/atmospheric cycling, and pressure tests to ensure durability and performance in harsh conditions. The document specifies data collection and results presentation for each test, ensuring thorough evaluation against established standards and operational requirements.

The ExPEDitions program, managed by DARPA, focuses on developing advanced, high-energy-density rechargeable batteries to enhance the operational range of various assets like unmanned aerial vehicles and ground vehicles. This CUI Guide outlines procedures for protecting Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) related to the program, in accordance with Executive Order 13556 and DoDI 5200.48. It identifies CUI categories such as Controlled Technical Information (CTI), Export Controlled Research (EXPT), Proprietary Business Information (PROPIN), Operations Security (OPSEC), and Budget (BUDG). The guide details protection requirements, disclosure protocols, and reporting procedures for unauthorized disclosures, ensuring compliance with DFARS 252.204-7012 and NIST 800-171 standards. Additionally, it provides guidance charts to assist in identifying sensitive information and applying appropriate dissemination controls.

The DARPA PS-26-118 document outlines the guidance for submitting Full Proposal Packages for the Expeditionary Power- and Energy-Dense Implementations (ExPEDitions) program. Key dates include anticipated deadlines of August 10, 2026, for questions and August 17, 2026, for submissions. Proposals, focused on high-energy-density and high-power-density rechargeable secondary batteries, must be submitted via DARPA’s BAAT system. Selected abstract proposers will receive an invitation with detailed content and format instructions. Proposals require a title page with specific statements, a detailed technical and management plan (including technical rationale, performance benchmarks, physical form factor, use cases, manufacturability analysis, supply chain analysis, BMS plan, fabrication plan for prototypes, risk mitigation, technical capabilities, staffing, and management approach), an Other Transaction (OT) for Prototype Agreement, and a cost spreadsheet with a milestone schedule. Evaluation criteria prioritize Overall Scientific and Technical Merit, followed by Cost and Schedule Realism, and Proposer’s Capabilities or Related Experience. DARPA will assess proposals against these criteria to determine their

The DARPA-PS-26-118: Expeditionary Power- and Energy-Dense Implementations (ExPEDitions) program requires mandatory abstracts for all submissions. Proposers must use a specific template, include an Abstract Summary Slide, and adhere to formatting guidelines, including an 8-1/2 by 11-inch page size, 1-inch margins, and a 12-point font (8 or 10-point for figures). Abstracts are limited to 5 pages, must be UNCLASSIFIED or Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), and should not contain classified data. The page limit includes all figures, tables, and charts, but excludes the cover sheet, table of contents, bibliography, and optional technical papers. Submitting an abstract is a prerequisite for a full proposal. DARPA will respond within 30 calendar days, either inviting a full proposal or declining further submission. Evaluation criteria from the solicitation will be used, and an invitation does not guarantee an award. Abstracts must be submitted by the due date via DARPA’s Broad Agency Announcement Tool (BAAT). The abstract template includes sections for Goals and Impact, Technical Approach, Capabilities/Management Plan, Cost and Schedule, and an optional Bibliography, along with a cover sheet for organizational and contact details.

The document, DARPA-PS-26-118 ExPEDitions Abstract Summary Slide Template, outlines the required sections for a proposal abstract, likely for a federal grant or RFP. It specifies key components such as the Abstract Title, Organization Name(s), Technical POC Name(s), and a graphic. The template also mandates descriptions of new ideas (CONCEPT), risks associated with the effort (RISKS), and the team's structure and responsibilities (TEAM), along with the overall methodology or APPROACH. This structure aims to provide a comprehensive overview for source selection, emphasizing innovation, risk assessment, team capabilities, and strategic approach. The document is classified as "Source Selection Information – Distribution with Agreements Officer’s authorization only," indicating its sensitive nature in a competitive procurement process.