Warfighting Performance

The Warfighting Performance program, managed by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) under Program Element (PE) 0602024E, is focused on applied research to develop biologically based materials, biomedical technologies, and supporting infrastructure that enhance the sustainability, resilience, and operational effectiveness of U.S. military personnel and platforms. The FY 2026 budget request for this program reflects the consolidation and transfer of related efforts from previous program elements to streamline research and development activities in this domain.

WP-01: Biologically Based Materials and Devices aims to leverage advances in biological sciences to create new materials and devices that improve the sustainability and operational capabilities of warfighters in diverse and austere environments. Specific objectives include converting DoD waste streams into useful materials, developing plant-based sensors for chemical threat detection, and creating biological systems for undersea energy generation. Additional efforts focus on cold chain-free storage of microbial samples for biothreat characterization, engineering neuroplasticity to enhance cognitive resilience, using biologics to protect military materiel from corrosion and biofouling, and developing bio-based solutions for operations in extreme environments. The program also supports domestic biomining of rare earth elements and the integration of bio-inspired materials into operational systems.

WP-02: Biomedical Technology is dedicated to applied research for medical technologies that maintain and restore warfighter health and performance across the operational spectrum. Key goals include developing technologies for extended autonomous casualty care and evacuation, rapid and adaptable delivery systems for medical countermeasures, and advanced battlefield triage tools that use biomarkers and sensing platforms. The program also supports the development of smart bandages for infection detection and treatment, prophylactic countermeasures for traumatic brain injury, and whole blood substitutes for combat casualty care. Additional initiatives focus on enhancing alertness and sleep efficiency, modifying red blood cells for passive protection, and using biomarker assays to optimize personnel placement and readiness. The program also invests in genome protection technologies and exploratory studies for next-generation biomedical platforms.

WP-07: Warfighting Performance Support covers non-headquarters management and operational support costs that enable the execution of the Warfighting Performance program. This includes network and equipment support, contractor and program security, building security, commercial transition services to promote domestic adoption of DARPA-funded technologies, outreach to universities and industry, and administrative support for program managers. These support activities are essential for maintaining program continuity and ensuring that research outcomes can be transitioned effectively to operational use.

The Biologically Based Materials and Devices project justifies its investments by addressing critical supply chain vulnerabilities, reducing reliance on foreign-sourced materials, and enhancing operational sustainability through upcycling waste and developing new biomanufacturing processes. The project's focus on environmental sensing, energy generation, and infrastructure protection directly supports warfighter resilience in contested or resource-limited environments, while also reducing long-term operational costs.

The Biomedical Technology project is justified by the need to maintain force health and readiness in the face of emerging biological threats, operational injuries, and physiological stressors. By developing rapid diagnostics, countermeasures, and field-deployable medical technologies, the program aims to reduce preventable battlefield casualties, improve recovery outcomes, and ensure that U.S. forces can operate effectively in both current and future conflict scenarios. The inclusion of cognitive and physiological performance monitoring further supports data-driven personnel management and training.