Deep Thoughts Industry Day 2026

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) Tactical Technology Office (TTO) is hosting an in-person Industry Day for the Deep Thoughts program. The event, held on February 6, 2026, aims to introduce the science and technology (S&T) community—including industry, academia, and government—to the program's vision and goals, facilitate collaboration, and explain DARPA program mechanics. The Deep Thoughts program seeks to develop novel small autonomous undersea vehicles (AUVs) that are quickly designed, produced, integrated, and easily deployed, leveraging advancements in materials, manufacturing, and structural and mechanical design to reduce size, cost, and development time for deep-ocean systems. Key innovation areas include pressure-vessel design and novel approaches to integrating onboard components. Attendees will gain insights into digital engineering tools, agile hardware development waves, and opportunities for prototyping and mission studies.