Bordeaux Program Solicitation

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is currently managing a solicitation for the Bordeaux Program, an initiative focused on innovative research in cyber security performance for artificial intelligence (AI) models and hardware. As of June 5, 2026, the government has formally suspended this solicitation to resolve a system discrepancy. Prospective proposers are instructed to cease all proposal preparation, as no submissions will be accepted or reviewed during this suspension period. The government may eventually issue an amendment to lift the suspension or close the current solicitation to release a new Broad Agency Announcement. The Bordeaux Program is structured as a 36-month effort, beginning with a three-month security startup phase, followed by an 18-month Phase 1 (Base) and an 18-month Phase 2 (Base Expansion). The program utilizes Other Transaction (OT) for Prototype Agreements to engage with performers, including nontraditional defense contractors. Before the suspension, the solicitation required comprehensive submissions including a Volume I Technical proposal and a Volume II Cost proposal, with specific protocols for accessing a classified TOP SECRET//SAP addendum that contains the program's technical requirements. The attachment package for this opportunity includes the base solicitation, three subsequent amendments, and several mandatory templates for cost and administrative compliance. Amendment 03 serves as the formal notice of suspension, while previous amendments established the proposal framework and extended deadlines. The package also provides standardized documents for cost reporting, milestone scheduling, and Associate Contractor Agreements (ACA) to facilitate information sharing among program participants. The Bordeaux Program So…