Lightweight Universal Codec
Key Dates
Due Date
-
Posted Date
-
Agency & Value
Agency
DEF ADVANCED RESEARCH PROJECTS AGCY
Contract Value
Not provided
Codes & Classification
Solicitation Number
DARPA-SN-26-86
NAICS
541715 - Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology)
Classification Code
AC12
Additional Details
Documents1
The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), operating under the Department of Defense, has issued a Special Notice (DARPA-SN-26-86) for the Lightweight Universal Codec (LUC) program. This initiative, managed by DARPA’s Information Processing Technology Office (IPTO), seeks to advance the state of communication technology by developing a universal encoder-decoder (codec) capable of transmitting and receiving information using any known error correction code, as well as codes that may be developed in the future.
The LUC program builds upon the innovative Guessing Random Additive Noise Decoding (GRAND) study previously conducted by DARPA. The primary objective is to create an adaptive error correction codec that can dynamically switch between multiple error correction codes in real time. The envisioned encoder will be able to utilize a broad and easily updatable suite of error correcting codes, while the decoder will implement the GRAND noise model. The codec will be designed so that the encoder incorporates the decoder’s noise model and other operational factors into its code selection process, optimizing for link budget and mission-specific requirements.
A key deliverable of the program is the integration of these codecs into existing communication technologies, with the expectation of demonstrating significant improvements in efficiency, security, throughput, and interoperability. The codecs are anticipated to achieve record-setting low-power decoding and adaptive, dynamic forward error correction. Success will be evaluated based on the universality of the codes, improvements in link budget attributable solely to the codec, and enhanced performance of communication systems in heterogeneous network environments.
To ensure broad applicability and facilitate the transition of these technologies into both commercial and military sectors, the LUC program will be conducted at the unclassified level. Implementations and integrations by performers are not to exceed the Controlled Unclassified Information threshold. Contractors are encouraged to select their own target communication systems for integration, with an emphasis on identifying candidates that will demonstrate the most significant improvements through LUC implementation.
The procurement is classified under NAICS code 541715, which pertains to Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology), and Product Service Code AC12. The contracting entity is the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), a federal office within the Department of Defense. The primary point of contact for this opportunity is the BAA Coordinator, who can be reached at [email protected].
This notice is currently active, with a posting date of May 6, 2026, and a response deadline of June 19, 2026. Interested parties can access further details and attachments via the official SAM.gov opportunity page at https://sam.gov/opp/1cf9300af2d34a7a8961bee57530fcff/view.
Contractors with expertise in adaptive error correction, codec development, and integration into communication systems are encouraged to review this opportunity. The program’s focus on universality, adaptability, and performance in diverse environments makes it particularly relevant for organizations capable of innovative R&D in physical and engineering sciences. The unclassified nature of the work and the flexibility in selecting target systems for integration further broaden the scope for potential performers.