Lightweight Universal Codec (LUC)

The Lightweight Universal Codec (LUC) program, managed by DARPA’s Information Processing Techniques Office, aims to develop a revolutionary adaptive error correction codec capable of dynamically selecting and switching between any known or future error correction codes using a universal encoder-decoder architecture. Built upon the foundation of DARPA’s GRAND (Guessing Random Additive Noise Decoding) research, the codec will integrate real-time channel characteristic inference from the decoder’s noise model to optimize code selection for link budget, mission priorities, and system performance. The goal is to achieve unprecedented efficiency, security, and interoperability across diverse communication platforms through low-power, on-the-fly decoding and adaptive forward error correction. Successful implementations must demonstrate universality—functioning seamlessly across heterogeneous networks—and measurable improvements in throughput and resilience without requiring changes to underlying physical layers. The program is structured as a two-phase effort spanning 39 months total, beginning with a 12-month Phase 1 focused on codec design, modeling, and simulation, followed by a 27-month optional Phase 2 involving hardware prototyping, integration with commercial or military transceivers, and field testing in locations alternating between Washington, DC and San Diego, CA. All work must remain unclassified or at the Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) level, with technology intended exclusively for research, prototyping, and evaluation—not for direct field deployment. Proposers must meet stringent cybersecurity requirements, including holding a valid, unexpired Final Level 2 CMMC certification recorded in the Supplier Performance Risk System (SPRS) for their CAGE code, and maintaining compliance with NIST SP 800-171 for systems handling CUI. CMMC requirements must be flowed down to all subcontractors handling Federal Contract Information or CUI, and proposers must affirm their ability to protect sensitive data through authorized systems prior to award. Submission follows a two-stage process: an initial abstract, limited to eight pages and submitted via DARPA’s BAAT portal by July 22, 2026, followed by a government-invited full proposal including technical documents, cost proposals, biographical sketches, and supporting forms. Full proposals must demonstrate technical merit, verifiable expertise in error correction codes and communications platforms, clear intellectual property management, and cost realism aligned with the proposed approach. Award decisions will be determined through DARPA’s Scientific Review Process, evaluating innovation, feasibility, and overall scientific merit, with multiple awards anticipated. Deliverables include prototype hardware units, technical documentation, quarterly and monthly reporting, and post-ex