Arcane Thunder 27 (AT 27)
Below is a brief summary. Please check the full solicitation before applying (link in resources section).
Executive Summary:
This is an RFI (Request for Information), not a funding opportunity, but it is a critical gateway to Army experimentation and potential follow-on contracting. The U.S. Army is seeking cutting-edge technologies for Arcane Thunder 27 (AT27), a major multi-domain experimentation campaign.
If selected, your technology may be invited to participate in field demonstrations and exercises with operational units. This is a high-visibility pathway to engage directly with the Warfighter and DoD stakeholders.
Submission deadline: 22 May 2026 : 22:59 CDT.
Missing this deadline means waiting for future cycles—there is no guarantee of a re-open.
How much funding would I receive?
This RFI does not include funding, but funding would shortly follow.
What could I use the funding for?
AI-Enabled Command & Control
Edge-deployed AI for decision support, wargaming, and risk analysis
Automated synchronization across units and systems
AI models that operate in degraded or denied environments
Cyber, Electronic Warfare & Information Operations
RF, cyber, and information effects (detect, disrupt, deceive)
AI-driven emitter identification and behavior modeling
Integrated cyber/EW payloads across platforms
Multi-Domain Sensing & Targeting
Sensor fusion across RF, EO/IR, SAR, and other modalities
Real-time targeting and geolocation (TDOA/FDOA/DF)
Adaptive sensor tasking and AI-enabled targeting
Resilient Communications & Networking
Low probability of intercept/detection (LPI/LPD) communications
Self-healing mesh networks across air, ground, and space
Cross-domain data transfer (unclassified to higher classification)
Autonomy, Robotics & Swarming
Multi-platform control with single operator
Adaptive swarm behavior based on mission and threat
Autonomous detection, tracking, and targeting
Additive Manufacturing & Edge Modularity
Field-ready 3D printing for parts and payloads
Modular, plug-and-play payload architectures
In-theater reconfiguration and resupply
Operational Simulation & Decision Tools
Live, Virtual, Constructive (LVC) environments
Digital twins and mission rehearsal tools
End-to-end visualization of sensor-to-shooter workflows
Supporting Capability Areas
Counter-UAS systems
Space-based communications and sensing
Defensive cyber operations
Signature reduction (RF, visual, EMS)
Threat replication and red-teaming tools
Are there any additional benefits I would receive?
Yes—this opportunity is about access and validation, not capital:
Invitation to Army-led field experiments and demonstrations
Direct engagement with:
Warfighters
DoD R&D organizations
Combatant Commands and other agencies
Real-world testing in contested, denied, and austere environments
Opportunity for follow-on contracting actions
Visibility into how your product performs in multi-domain operations
What is the timeline to apply and when would I receive funding?
Submission deadline: 22 May 2026 : 22:59 CDT.
Key milestones:
NLT 30 September 2026: Down-select notifications
Late 2026: Planning conferences and interviews
Early 2027: Final planning and risk reduction
Apr – Jun 2027: Field exercises (CONUS and OCONUS)
Funding timeline: Not specified in the solicitation.
Where does this funding come from?
Not applicable.
Issued by the U.S. Army DEVCOM C5ISR Center for experimentation purposes.
Who is eligible to apply?
Industry
Academia
Individuals
Laboratories
Must:
Submit via Vulcan-SOF
Provide a Scout Card + Technology Quad Chart
Keep all submissions unclassified
What companies and projects are likely to win?
Selections favor technologies that are:
Relevant to current military missions
Technically mature and deployable
Adaptable across multiple use cases
Aligned to multi-domain operations
Are there any restrictions I should know about?
Do NOT submit proposals — only Scout Cards
No classified information allowed
Must disclose ITAR/EAR/OFAC restrictions
Data generated becomes U.S. Government property
Must use required formats or risk rejection
How long will it take me to prepare an application?
Expect to prepare:
Scout Card (per technology)
Quad Chart
Technical specs (SWaP, power, spectrum, etc.)
How can BW&CO help?
BW&CO can support across all phases of this CSO:
Refine your positioning against Army priority areas
Translate your tech into a high-impact Scout Card
Ensure compliance with submission and formatting rules
Increase likelihood of selection for demonstration
