Microcircuit Traceability & Counterfeit Mitigation

The Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) has issued a Request for Information (RFI) titled "Microcircuit Traceability & Counterfeit Mitigation" (Solicitation Number SP4706-26-R-XXX1) to gather market insights on technologies that can reliably trace individual microcircuits back to their original vendors, thereby mitigating the risk of counterfeit parts once devices are removed from their original packaging. Since 2015, DLA has employed plant-based DNA marking for device authentication and traceability; this RFI seeks information on novel or alternative approaches that meet or exceed the established standards of durability, security, and device integrity. Respondents are requested to provide detailed company information, a five-year cost estimate, technical approaches to the draft Statement of Work (SOW), strategies to combat counterfeiting, proposed metrics and deliverables, and narratives on part identification methods. This market research activity is strictly for planning purposes and does not constitute a solicitation or commitment to contract. The scope emphasizes maintaining device integrity throughout the marking process, adherence to stringent thermal limits (not exceeding 150°C for military-grade and 85°C for commercial-grade devices), minimal material alteration (limited to 50–70 microinches depth), and compatibility with diverse substrates such as ceramic, plastic, nickel, and gold. Marking requirements specify a durable, 2mm by 2mm DNA-infused ink dot that remains legible under abrasion and does not obscure existing part identifiers, while also including a DNA stamp on unit package labels for visual traceability. The throughput capability requirement mandates the processing of up to 10,000 devices within seven days and an annual operational volume between 20,000 and 100,000 units. Inspection and acceptance of the marked devices are to be conducted by DLA at government facilities in Columbus, Ohio. The RFI also calls for comprehensive documentation including demonstration of supply chain verification through qualified supplier data, testing reports, or OEM traceability evidence. While no formal contract clauses, evaluation factors, or pricing information are established at this stage, the provided draft SOW outlines detailed technical criteria and deliverables that will inform future acquisition strategies, with submissions due by May 22, 2026.