DIU launches low-cost UAS sensing challenge

The US Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), in collaboration with US Northern Command (USNORTHCOM), seeks to identify solutions for scalable, cost-effective Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) detection, identification, and tracking. Submissions are due by 20 May, 2025.

This challenge aims to enhance the DoD’s counter-UAS (CUAS) capabilities for up to US$1 million ($1.48 million) while addressing cost and scalability limitations associated with traditional radars, optical sensors and Radio Frequency (RF) detection systems.

“DoD needs more options for low cost CUAS sensors that can augment our more exquisite capabilities to provide earlier warnings and indicators,” said Matthew Way, the DIU Lead for Counter UAS, who explained the pressing need for this capability in the joint force. “We understand there may be trade-offs in detection range and accuracy to drive down costs versus positively enabling a distributed sensing concept.”

A team of subject matter experts will evaluate applicants and select up to 10  finalists. This group of finalists will receive a portion of the overall funding to help cover their participation in NORTHCOM’s Falcon Peak exercise in September 2025. The top performing vendors at Falcon Peak will compete for the remaining prize funding.

Apply here