DARPA Solicits Proposals for Arctic Radar Technology Development under Frosty Program
On January 6, 2026, DARPA announced the Frosty program to develop radar-based sensing technologies for the Arctic. The program aims to create innovative radar signal-processing algorithms that utilize noise-like illumination for target sensing in environments where traditional radar is less effective.
Proposals must demonstrate an end-to-end capability from raw data to usable tracks. The program builds on previous DARPA research, including the Assured Arctic Awareness and Defense Applications of Innovative Remote Sensing initiatives.
Key metrics for Phase 1 include detecting airborne targets at a minimum range of 75 km and achieving a detection probability above 90 percent. Testing is planned in central and northern Alaska, specifically in the Point Barrow area and Poker Flat Research Range, as part of efforts to enhance U.S. sensing capabilities in the Arctic region.
