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Offshore Windmill Farm Connection to Power Grid: Rheinmetall Clears Explosive Ordnances in Baltic Sea

Sunday, November 24th, 2024

The Düsseldorf-based Technology Corporation Rheinmetall has gained a valuable order for clearing explosive ordnances in the Baltic Sea in order to establish the condition for connecting an offshore windmill-farm to the power grid. The value of this commissioning is within a low double-digit million Euro range.

The order to Rheinmetall was placed by grid operator 50Hertz within the OST-6-1 project and contains the detection of contaminations, their identi¬fication, the documentation, and hence, the recovery of explosive ordnances. Recovered trans¬portable contaminated waste and remains of weapons will be handed-over to the authorities or blown up on site.

This is the first major order for the Cooperation concerning offshore explosives ordnances detection and clearing. The offshore work to be carried out by Rheinmetall Project Solutions GmbH began in July 2024 and is expected to be completed in May 2025.

The commissioning underlines Rheinmetall’s expertise in the field of offshore explosive ordnance detection and safe clearance, in which all legal and environmental aspects are taken into account.

The aim is to clear the area in order to enable grid operator 50Hertz to lay offshore extra-high voltage cables and install two offshore platforms off the coast of the Fischland-Darß region. This project involves Rheinmetall AG being the project lead, alongside specialized companies from Germany and Norway.

Posted in International, Power, Press Release | 1 Comment »

Galvion Delivers an Order of 400 MAX-8 Mission Adaptive Charging Stations to AeroVironment

Friday, November 8th, 2024

Galvion, a world leader in the design and manufacture of integrated power and data management solutions and innovative head protection systems, has delivered the first order of its Nerv Centr® MAX-8 Mission Adaptive Charging Station™ to the US defense tech company, AeroVironment (AV).

The initial order of 400 units will be followed-up with an additional 800, to be delivered during 2025 and 2026 as part of a Long-Term Purchasing agreement.

AV is a leading provider of innovative, lightweight, and reliable uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS), specializing in versatile solutions designed for tactical reconnaissance and surveillance. Galvion’s MAX-8™ has been integrated to deliver intelligent and adaptable charging for AV’s UAS battery systems, replacing the existing solution. Following close collaboration and extensive testing, Galvion successfully designed a universal adaptor that enables the MAX-8 to interface across AV’s small uncrewed aircraft systems (SUAS). This partnership extends beyond the initial orders, as the two companies will collaborate on future UAS charging solutions to meet evolving needs and drive continued product innovation.

Galvion’s Nerv Centr® MAX-8™ is a portable charging solution built to withstand the harsh conditions of expeditionary operations, where UAS operations are becoming increasingly vital. With the ability to draw power from multiple sources, including AC, solar and vehicle, the MAX-8 battery adapters offer the ability to charge different types of UAS and other batteries simultaneously, with no setting changes needed. The MAX-8 features intelligent functionality, including prioritization of needs, topping off the fullest battery first, automatic evaluation of power source and adjustment of charge rates to maximize power and minimize charge time.

“AV is proud to partner with Galvion for our battery power management solutions for our small UAS. This Universal Battery Charger provides our customers with seamless plug-and-play functionality, featuring universal adapters that enable efficient charging for all of AV’s current and future batteries across both our small UAS and ground control stations,” said Mike Jorgens, AV’s sr. product line manager.

Todd Stirtzinger, CEO at Galvion, said: “Our relationship with AV is a great example of Galvion’s commitment to developing productive collaborations with industry partners to better serve the warfighter. AV is recognized as a leader in designing and delivering innovative UAS solutions; Galvion is an expert in power management and charging – together, we can accelerate the pace of innovation by helping AV focus on UAS systems, while we concentrate on maximizing operational efficiency by keeping them charged.” He added: “With this initial order of 400 MAX-8 charging stations and customized adaptor delivered, and another 800 in the pipeline, we’re very much looking forward to building our relationship with AV and finding opportunities to further drive industry advancements.”

Posted in Contracts, Power, Press Release, UAS | No Comments »

GM Defense Debuted “Next Gen” Tactical Vehicle at AUSA 2024

Friday, October 18th, 2024

GM Defense, a subsidiary of General Motors (GM), unveiled its new “Next Gen” tactical vehicle prototype at this week’s AUSA 2024, the annual meeting and exposition of the Association of the U.S. Army.

Based on the Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD ZR2 truck, the rugged and durable Next Gen combines GM’s 2.8L Duramax® turbo-diesel engine with a 12-module battery pack, in addition to drive motors for the front and rear axles that enable Silent Drive and Silent Watch, technologies that make the vehicles harder to detect.

Side view of GM Defense’s Next Gen tactical vehicle

The technologies enable stealthy ingress and egress through high threat zones, with onboard power to support high-energy-demand sensors, shooters, and Soldier kit. The vehicles offer active and passive safety features, including roll-over protection, anti-lock braking, electronic stability control, four- and five-point seat belt harnesses, and 360-degree camera capabilities.

“Our Next Gen vehicle is a game-changing mobility solution that delivers tactically significant capabilities by integrating GM’s proven commercial technologies,” said Steve duMont, president of GM Defense. “This rugged and highly capable diesel-powered vehicle offers tactical advantages, such as Silent Operations, exportable power, and increased range with extended mission duration. Our warfighters deserve the latest technology that industry can offer in order to gain and maintain competitive advantage over our adversaries. Our Next Gen mobility solution can be customized and fielded now.”

Next Gen offers the following tactical advantages:

• Silent Drive and Silent Watch, enabling low acoustic and thermal signatures;

• Exportable power capable of charging mission systems;

• Tactically significant range with extended mission duration;

• Designed to be autonomy-ready with manned and unmanned options; and

• Add-on armor capable.

In addition, Next Gen provides sustainment benefits, including:

• Fuel demand reduction;

• The ability to use existing JP8 fuel infrastructure;

• Lower maintenance requirements from reduced parts and subsystems in the overall propulsion system; and

• Reduced logistics tail for fuel, batteries, and vehicle parts.

“Next Gen’s ‘wow’ factor is right behind the wheel,” said John ‘JD’ Johnson, vice president of GM Defense’s Government Solutions and Strategy Division. “Customers need to drive this highly capable vehicle to see, feel, and hear the benefits. Next Gen fundamentally changes the discussion around modern mobility through the tactical benefits delivered by its propulsion system, including its ability to address the power gap in the formation. This highly capable tactical vehicle leverages billions of dollars of investments GM has made in R&D and innovation to enhance warfighter capability. We encourage customers to test drive it so that we can get these capabilities fielded immediately.”

Next Gen is offered in two-, four-, and six-seat configurations. The vehicle will be optimized to support multi-mission capabilities, including command and control, launched effects, network extension, counter unmanned aerial systems anti-armor, casualty evacuation, and other critical missions.

Posted in AUSA, Mobility, Power, Press Release | 8 Comments »

OTTO and Freedom Atlantic Unveil WedgeX to Provide Communications Overmatch for the Dismounted Warfighter

Monday, October 14th, 2024

New Tactical Power and Data Communication Solution Aims to Extend Equipment Runtime, Lighten Loadouts, and Simplify Comms Kits Reconfiguration.

Washington D.C. (Oct 14, 2024) – OTTO and Freedom Atlantic are proud to announce the commercial launch of WedgeX™, a revolutionary advancement in tactical communication technology. Designed to transform how warfighters manage their comms equipment, WedgeX introduces a new paradigm in the radio power/datawedge market, offering unparalleled adaptability, simplicity, and extended run-time for frontline operators.

As warfare evolves and battlefields become increasingly decentralized and unpredictable, warfighters face the daunting task of manually optimizing their communication kits to meet rapidly changing conditions. Traditional systems require significant time and attention for equipment management, detracting from the critical focus needed for mission success and survival.

WedgeX addresses these challenges by automating and streamlining comms equipment management. Featuring an advanced modular design, WedgeX enables soldiers to quickly reconfigure their kits based on mission requirements, significantly reducing the physical and cognitive load associated with managing multiple devices and adapters.

“WedgeX is a game-changer for the modern warfighter,” said Ken Jillson, Chief Technology Officer at Freedom Atlantic. “From the start, our mission was to create a communications solution that adapts to the soldier—not the other way around. The WedgeX system actively monitors how soldiers use their equipment and intelligently adjusts power distribution to ensure their most critical gear is operational when they need it most. Our goal is to keep warfighters mission-focused, eliminating the distraction of managing their gear.”

The WedgeX system features a suite of game-changing capabilities:

• Automatic Device Run-time Management: Utilizes advanced algorithms to monitor and manage equipment run-time, prioritize critical devices, and conserve battery life with features like power scavenging and temperature-aware charging.

• Multi-Mission Modularity: A flexible design supporting various mission profiles and power needs, from short-term to extended operations.

• Simplicity: Seamlessly integrates data from tactical devices into a unified, configurable data hub and power controller, eliminating the need for extra cables and adapters.

“WedgeX represents a significant leap forward in tactical communication systems,” stated Dan Stanek, President of OTTO. “By offering automatic run-time management and a streamlined configuration process, WedgeX enhances operational efficiency and soldier survivability. It’s designed to meet the evolving demands of modern combat.”

The WedgeX System comprises two primary components: the WedgeX Radio Power Adapter and the SideLink Modular Radio Hub Adapter. The Radio Power Adapter, installed between the radio and battery, supports existing tactical radios with a MIL-STD twist-lock bayonet-style battery interface. The SiswLink connects the WedgeX, radio data interfaces, ATAK EUD, and external data devices, ensuring seamless integration without the need for additional unnecessary external devices.

Co-developed by OTTO and Freedom Atlantic, WedgeX provides warfighters with a comms overmatch by redefining tactical radio power and data distribution. This innovative solution offers rapid adaptability, extended run-time, and lighter loadouts.

Contact OTTO today for more information or a demonstration.

Posted in AUSA, Comms, Power, Press Release | 1 Comment »

Galvion Receives Further US DoD Orders for Their MAX-8 Mission Adaptive Charging Station and Squad Power Manager (SPM)

Thursday, October 10th, 2024

Galvion, a world leader in the design and manufacture of integrated power and data management solutions and innovative head protection systems, has announced the receipt of further orders from US DoD for their MAX-8 Mission Adaptive Charging Station™ and Squad Power Manager™ (SPM).

Galvion’s Nerv Centr® power management solutions have been selected as a part of a System Modernization Program (SMP) for the Joint Program Executive Office for Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Defense (JPEO-CBRND) Dismounted Reconnaissance Sets, Kits, and Outfits (DRSKO) Program of Record. This announcement coincides with the AUSA event taking place in Washington DC, 14-16 October 2024, where Galvion is exhibiting at booth 733.

The customized power management solutions include the widely fielded Squad Power Manager™ (SPM) and Mission Adaptive Charging Station™ (MAX-8). Initial orders for 124 combined SPM and MAX-8 systems have been received to support the National Guard and Army DRSKO requirements following the successful completion of their user evaluation trials in late 2023. Deliveries of these systems will begin in late 2024. Additional orders are expected to support the specific CBRND DRSKO requirements of other United States Department of Defense (US DoD) branches of service (Air Force and Marines) when subsequent fiscal year funding is released, and service specific power management requirements are validated.

The Galvion Nerv Centr® SPM™ kit provides a lightweight and compact multifunctional system to enable the harvesting and management of energy from multiple sources. Using a customized selection of intelligent cables, the system provides the ability to scavenge, distribute, and manage power from multiple power sources (solar, AC, DC, military batteries, NATO plugs, and vehicle) and convert that power into a usable format for powering devices, peripheral equipment, and recharging batteries. Galvion’s Nerv Centr® MAX-8™ is a portable charging solution built to withstand the harsh conditions of expeditionary operations. With the ability to draw power from multiple sources, including AC, solar and vehicle, the MAX-8 battery adapters offer the ability to charge different types of batteries simultaneously, with no setting changes needed. The SPM and the MAX-8 feature intelligent functionality, including prioritization of needs, topping off the fullest battery first, automatic evaluation of power source and adjustment of charge rates to maximize power and minimize charge time.

Todd Stirtzinger, CEO at Galvion, said: “We’re very proud to be supplying CBRND warfighters with customized solutions that will improve the power management efficiency of their DRSKO kits. Our systems are deployed across multiple US units and organizations to enhance the overall capability that helps to protect the warfighter and the nation.” He added: “Our priority at Galvion is to deliver operational efficiencies and effectiveness for our users. These power management solutions simplify logistics by reducing battery burden and resupply requirements while ensuring that all mission-critical equipment is powered and ready to go in even the most austere environments.

Faster charging means less burden while out in the field, allowing teams to do more with less, an that is what drives everything that we do here at Galvion.”

Posted in Advertiser, Contracts, Power, Press Release | Comments Off on Galvion Receives Further US DoD Orders for Their MAX-8 Mission Adaptive Charging Station and Squad Power Manager (SPM)

Thyrm Introduces AA Inserts for Popular CellVault-5M

Wednesday, October 2nd, 2024

Thyrm has responded to customer requests for a AA battery insert for their customizable CellVault-5M which is both PALS compatible and waterproof.

The new insert joins those available for AAA, CR123/16650, 18350, 18650, and 1632 batteries.

Get yours at thyrm.com/product/cv5m-insert-pak.

Posted in Advertiser, Load Carrying, Power | Comments Off on Thyrm Introduces AA Inserts for Popular CellVault-5M

LiquidPiston Begins Testing 10KW Generator Prototype

Thursday, September 26th, 2024

BLOOMFIELD, Conn. — September 23, 2024 —LiquidPiston, Inc., a leading innovator of efficient internal combustion engine technology and hybrid power systems, today announced that it has begun testing its 10kW heavy-fueled generator prototype.

The genset is powered by LiquidPiston’s 25hp heavy-fueled XTS-210 rotary engine, which itself entered its integrated engine testing phase in April 2024.

The company has been awarded over $65 million in Department of Defense (DoD) contracts, including an $8.3 million development contractwith the U.S. Army, in 2023, to develop a lightweight and ultra-portable generator for the military. The 10kW generator prototype now being tested is meant to address DoD priorities for a smaller footprint and increased portability.

“This is an exciting time for the LiquidPiston team as we begin testing the fully integrated generator prototype, which we will continue to refine ahead of delivering it to our DoD customers,” said LiquidPiston co-founder and CEO, Alec Shkolnik. “Our goal is to help address the DoD’s demanding operational energy needs with significantly smaller and lighter portable power generation systems.”

The LiquidPiston 10kW genset is designed specifically to meet the DoD’s portable electric genset specs at approximately one-quarter the size and weight of the U.S. Army’s current Advanced Medium Mobile Power Source (AMMPS) 10kW generator system.

The 10kW system incorporates all components required for reliable and efficient power production in the field, including the XTS-210 rotary engine, a high-performance electric motor/generator, custom power electronics, controls, a thermal management system, a fuel tank, muffling, and military-grade packaging. The generator is designed in the long term to be plug-and-play compatible with today’s AMMPS systems, and it will have similar connectivity and interoperability.

Being smaller and lighter than the DoD’s currently-deployed 5kW and 10kW gensets, and approximately the same size as the currently deployed 3kW genset, LiquidPiston’s 10kW genset could greatly simplify DoD generator procurement and logistics by potentially replacing three products with a single product.

While being developed initially with an eye on military specifications, the base generator technology can be applied commercially in applications operating on heavy fuels including diesel, kerosene, and jet fuel, or can be configured to be multi-fuel capable, compatible with gasoline and gaseous fuels like propane.

The 10kW genset leverages the XTS-210 engine’s patented High Efficiency Hybrid Thermodynamic Cycle™ (HEHC) design, offering several key benefits over current generator technology:

• Lightweight –
Up to 75 percent lighter and smaller than the currently-fielded AMMPS.

• Easy to transport –
Can be man-portable, instead of requiring a truck, trailer, or forklift.

• Space efficient –
Occupies only ~9 cubic feet of space.

• Heavy- and multi- fuel capable –
Designed for jet fuel, the engines have also been operated on gasoline, diesel, propane, and hydrogen.

LiquidPiston’s XTS-210 heavy-fueled rotary engine is the result of significant internal research and development, coupled with more than ten contracts secured with the U.S. Department of Defense and over $20 million awarded in development funding, including a $9 million DEVCOM Army Research Laboratory award for a Compact Efficient Rotary Engine announced in November 2022. The XTS-210 is also being integrated into a hybrid eVTOL UAS for a U.S. Army demonstration that will occur later this year.

LiquidPiston has previously raised over $50M in equity crowdfunding, and is currently running a Reg CF equity crowdfunding campaign which is scheduled to close September 27, 2024.

Posted in Power, Press Release | 2 Comments »

Eonix Awarded Air Force Phase II STTR to Unlock Next-Gen Warfare with Scalable Ultra-High-Power Batteries

Monday, September 23rd, 2024

Leveraging the ATLAS platform, Eonix will accelerate battery materials discovery focused on powering Directed Energy, C-sUAS, and e-VTOL systems

Knoxville,TN — [Sept 18th, 2024] — Eonix, a pioneer in next-generation battery technology, has been selected by AFWERX for a PHASE II STTR contract with the University of Tennessee Tickle College of Engineering in the amount of $1.7M focused on ultra-high-power batteries for directed energy, counter drone swarms, and e-VTOL systems. The funds will be used to design high conductivity electrolytes that are drop-in compatible with batteries manufactured today and meet the ambitious DoD energy storage targets for next gen platforms.

“New technologies like Directed Energy, Counter Small Unmanned Aircraft (C-sUAS), and electric Vertical Take Off Landing (e-VTOL) Systems promise to transform modern air defense systems by offering cost-effective engagement, enhanced base resiliency, and advanced surveillance and attack capabilities,” said Eonix Founder Don Derosa. “Our ATLAS materials discovery platform will design a next generation battery chemistry that improves power density, discharge rate, and operational temperature…thus powering the Air Force to respond to a rapid evolution of aerial threats.”

Eonix is revolutionizing battery product development, leveraging their ATLAS platform which is 40x faster and 15x lower cost than traditional R&D methods. This groundbreaking platform, previously harnessed for projects backed by Army/DOE/NSF/Air Force, pairs real-time measurement of material behavior in batteries with quantum mechanics simulations to train AI models, significantly accelerating materials discovery. These models predict material performance and suggest novel material candidates, marking a significant leap forward in the quest for next-gen energy storage solutions.

The Air Force Research Laboratory and AFWERX have partnered to streamline the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) process by accelerating the small business experience through faster proposal to award timelines, changing the pool of potential applicants by expanding opportunities to small business and eliminating bureaucratic overhead by continually implementing process improvement changes in contract execution. The DAF began offering the Open Topic SBIR/STTR program in 2018 which expanded the range of innovations the DAF funded and now on Eonix will start its journey to create and provide innovative capabilities that will strengthen the national defense of the United States of America.

The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Department of the Air Force, the Department of Defense, or the U.S. government.

Posted in Air Force, Contracts, Power, Press Release | Comments Off on Eonix Awarded Air Force Phase II STTR to Unlock Next-Gen Warfare with Scalable Ultra-High-Power Batteries