DARPA launches $73M RAPIID for shelf-stable plasma, platelets, and RBCs targeting 2029 fielding

DARPA's RAPIID advances three dried blood products in parallel to remove cold-chain and expiration barriers that cause 10,000 preventable U.S. trauma deaths annually. Prior FSHARP animal data and international dried-plasma field use support the 2029 target, yet FDA hemoglobin-carrier history indicates substantial regulatory risk. Success would cut blood-run sorties and extend transfusion access to austere and space environments.