Potential Application of Very Large Array (VLA) over Transmission Infrastructure

The Missile Defense Agency is seeking Small Business Innovation Research proposals to apply Very Large Array techniques to existing power transmission infrastructure to add resilient anomaly detection layers to the Missile Defense System. Phase I requires contractors to assess performance challenges, identify necessary new infrastructure, and deliver both a development roadmap and a test plan for a Technology Readiness Level 6 prototype. Phase II focuses on demonstrating the coherent reception and transmission from geographically distributed infrastructures, mapping real-time electric and magnetic fields, and utilizing biology-inspired neuromorphic data processing to turn power grids into sensing arrays. Proposals will be evaluated based on their ability to leverage existing infrastructure with minimal modifications and deliver enabling detection and tracking technologies. The solicitation opens on July 22, 2026, and applications must be submitted by the closing deadline of August 19, 2026.