Defence Online

DASA is pleased to launch a new Themed Competition called Novel Technology for Intervening in Non-Compressible Haemorrhage (NHC). Run on behalf of Defence Medical Services (DMS) and UK Research & Innovation (UKRI), this competition is seeking novel interventions starting at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 2-4, for NCH for use prehospital in both combat and civilian settings.

Key dates and funding:

• The total possible funding available for this Themed Competition is £1.5 million. Several proposals may be funded.
• The deadline to submit a proposal is midday (GMT) on 4 November 2025
• A Q&A webinar to discuss the competition requirements will take place on Tuesday 16 September 2025
• A series of 15 minute 1-2-1 webinar sessions will take place on Monday 22 September and Tuesday 23 September providing the opportunity to ask the competition team specific questions

Competition Scope:

Non-compressible haemorrhage (NCH) refers to significant bleeding that cannot be immediately stopped or sustainably controlled from application of external pressure. NCH remains the leading cause of potentially preventable death in conflict. Despite significant improvements in combat casualty care, and reductions in overall mortality, patients with significant NCH face a high chance of dying from their injuries before they can reach a surgical facility.

DASA are seeking proposals for novel innovations that intervene to stop non-compressible bleeding. In this case ‘novel’ refers to products currently between TRL 2-4. Products can start anywhere in the TRL 2-4 range and can progress as far as feasible within the timeframe of the project. We expect funded products to progress by one or more TRLs by project end.

DASA is looking for engineering technology-driven, design-led solutions aimed at device-enabled control of haemorrhage. We encourage solutions that exploit and integrate existing technologies or approaches used or developed in non-healthcare sectors that could be re-oriented for the NCH challenge.