The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) has released a new Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) under its Defense Sciences Office (DSO) titled Mechanisms for Amplification of Fusion Reaction Rates in Solids (MARRS). Through MARRS, DARPA seeks to explore whether nuclear fusion reactions operating at or near room temperature in solid materials can be reproducibly and predictably amplified to levels relevant for future applications, such as smaller distributed power generation solutions for expeditionary defense needs.
Solicitation Overview and Technical Focus
MARRS is centered on advancing our predictive and quantitative understanding of the limits of fusion rate amplification in solid materials near room temperature. MARRS performers will combine theoretical analysis, modeling and simulations, and experiments to evaluate how various mechanisms contribute to solid state fusion rate amplification. The mechanisms of interest include the role of electron screening potentials, the role of momentum and energy transfer from external sources, and the density and mobility of deuterium or other fusion fuel species. Proposers are expected to investigate mechanisms such as host material selection, fuel loading techniques, and internal or external triggering methods that can efficiently increase fusion reaction rates. Importantly, proposals must rely on state-of-the-art particle detection technologies to directly measure fusion products; calorimetry alone is explicitly deemed insufficient.
Program Structure and Performance Expectations
The MARRS program is structured as a 36-month effort consisting of two 18-month phases. During Phase 1, performers will examine individual fusion rate amplification mechanisms and begin exploring their combined effects. An initial review after 12 months will ensure that teams can demonstrate controlled fusion reactions at rates of 100 reactions per second per gram. Successful performers with realistic plans to achieve a fusion rate of 1,000 reactions per second per gram by the end of month 16 may then be selected to continue into Phase 2, which focuses on optimizing combined mechanisms to achieve fusion rates of one million reactions per second per gram or higher.
Across both phases, DARPA emphasizes reproducibility, predictive modeling, and a clear understanding of scalability limits. Performers will participate in regular technical reviews, milestone demonstrations, and collaborative exchanges designed to accelerate learning across the research community. Furthermore, teams will be encouraged to collaborate and share findings from their unique strategies to increase the likelihood of any performers meeting the Phase 1 metrics by the end of 18 months.
Key Dates and Proposal Deadlines
Proposers should pay close attention to the following dates, all listed in Eastern Time (ET):
- January 20, 2026 – Proposers Day
- January 26, 2026 (4:00 PM ET) – Proposal abstract due (optional but strongly encouraged)
- February 23, 2026 (4:00 PM ET) – Deadline for submitting questions
- March 12, 2026 (4:00 PM ET) – Full proposal submission deadline
Funding and Award Information
DARPA anticipates making multiple awards under the MARRS BAA. While the solicitation does not specify a total program budget or individual award sizes, performers should plan for a 36-month period of performance, inclusive of both phases. For planning and budgeting purposes, DARPA has indicated an anticipated program start date of September 1, 2026.
Advancing Defense Capabilities and Societal Impact
While MARRS is driven by national security priorities, the implications of successfully amplifying fusion reaction rates in solids extend well beyond defense. Breakthroughs enabled by this research could support compact, low-radiation energy sources, improve non-destructive imaging and diagnostics, and lay the groundwork for future technologies that reduce reliance on hazardous materials or large-scale infrastructure. In the long term, scalable solid-state fusion could contribute to cleaner energy systems and safer radiation-based tools with broad benefits for human health and resilience.
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