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Rheinmetall Achieves Milestone in the Future-Oriented Field of Hydrogen – Major Order for Storage and Transport Systems in Sight from Renowned Supplier of Renewable Green Hydrogen

Thursday, May 1st, 2025

A major producer and supplier of renewable green hydrogen intends to place the first major order with the technology corporation Rheinmetall in the field of hydrogen storage and transport systems, with a contract volume in the mid double-digit million Euro range.
A corresponding letter of intent (LoI) for the framework contract in the mid double-digit million Euro range includes the delivery of one hundred multiple-element gas containers (MEGC) of various sizes. These MEGCs are used for transporting large quantities of technical gases such as hydrogen, and play a crucial role in the future climate-neutral energy supply. With the letter of intent, the technology corporation has reached an important milestone in the corporation’s relatively short history of MEGC development. The first MEGC is scheduled to be delivered at the beginning of 2026. The customer is a major European manufacturer and supplier of renewable green hydrogen.

Philipp Engl, INVENT H2 business field manager: “We are very proud of having acquired our first major customer for our innovative product in such a short time, and thus can further establish the recently set-up business field of hydrogen storage and transport systems for Rheinmetall”.
Rheinmetall’s innovative Multiple-Element Gas Container is equipped with advanced Type-IV hydrogen pressure tanks that allow pressures of up to 700 bar. These pressure tanks are characterised by a shortened winding time, the reduced use of carbon fibres and an increased storage capacity. The system offers a convenient all-in-one solution which also includes a smart service and maintenance support. The scalable length is between 20-40 feet. The containers can hold up to 1,000 kg (380 bar) of hydrogen.

The National Hydrogen Strategy is aiming at making Germany climate-neutral by 2045 which, in accordance with the Strategy, will require a higher demand of hydrogen. Being the energy source of the future, hydrogen is therefore expected to play a key role in the future energy mix. In this context, the transportation of hydrogen, being an energy source, plays a crucial role in order to ensure an efficient and secure supply chain, especially for industrial customers. Rheinmetall’s MEGCs fully comply with the regulations for movement by all common modes of transport, such as road (ADR), rail (RID) and inland shipping (ADN), and ensure safety and efficiency in storage and transport. In addition, the corporation offers its own trailers for the safe transport of the containers.

The promising conversations currently being held with other potential customers emphasise Rheinmetall’s prospects of gaining a further foothold in the future-oriented hydrogen market with innovative solutions.

Within the Rheinmetall Corporation, the Power Systems division is a system supplier of high-quality and innovative (mobility) solutions, control technologies and digital applications for the automotive and energy industries. This includes balance-of-plant (BoP) components for hydrogen fuel cell systems as well as electrodes for electrolysers. The portfolio is being expanded to include hydrogen storage systems such as multiple-element gas containers (MEGCs). This expansion is a core element of Rheinmetall’s comprehensive hydrogen strategy, which aims at replacing fossil fuels with green hydrogen. The strategy focusses on the development and advancement of hydrogen technologies in the areas of production, storage, distribution and use, as well as the development of innovative fuel cell solutions to support zero-emission mobility and the decarbonisation of industries.

More information on the product:
www.rheinmetall.com/en/H2-MEGC

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Quaze Technologies Successfully Demonstrates its Resilient Wireless Power Transfer Technology in the Joint Norway/US Arctic Warrior Experiment

Thursday, April 3rd, 2025

Quaze Technologies builds solutions to recharge any robot anywhere without human intervention and is the creator of wide-surface wireless power transfer (WPT), specifically optimized for use in remote and challenging environments. Quaze has recently taken part in the Arctic Warrior Experiment (AWE) 2025, a Norwegian Special Operations Command (NORSOCOM) arena to test cold-weather equipment capabilities in rugged terrain and arctic conditions. In 2025 NORSOCOM teamed up with United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) in an arctic technical experimentation in Norway to stress test a range of capabilities.

As part of the capability demonstration, Quaze’s Surface Power Technology, with its magnetic resonance capabilities, was assessed in extreme arctic conditions to provide continuous wireless recharging to a range of deployed equipment. The adaptability of the technology was tested to the full, with Quaze and their partners Galvion being required to rapidly integrate the WPT systems to recharge ‘on-the-soldier’ systems on BRP Lynx snowmobiles and Zeal Motor FAT trucks off?road utility vehicle. The Galvion BATLCHRG™ wireless charging capability was integrated into each vehicle demonstrating that soldiers can charge multiple battery powered systems through safe for human wireless power transfer. There was also a successful demonstration of continuous remote drone charging over 3 days as part of AWE.

The robust wireless solution utilizes a charging foldable light surface and receiver configuration that has excellent resiliency and power transfer rates. Quaze’s wide surface power transfer eliminates the requirement for precise alignment and successfully charges any robot in any conditions, proving it can operate efficiently with over 10cm of snow, or other debris, covering the surface.

The Quaze technology was demonstrated in other different applications, which are at an early concept stage and have yet to be launched as products. In all applications tested, the technology proved to be reliable and robust in such a harsh environment. The demonstrations conducted all performed beyond expectations proving that the technology can be used on the battlefield utilizing extreme conditions for tactical advantage, such as concealing equipment beneath debris such as snow, sand, water or soil without impairing charging performance. Coupled with the possibility to charge multiple systems simultaneously and wirelessly, Quaze is set to mark a significant leap in operational efficiency and endurance. Xavier Bidaut, CEO of Quaze Technologies said,

“Quaze continues to be at the forefront of the defence industry’s push towards untethered, cable-free power solutions. The AWE opportunity in Norway enabled us to showcase our unparalleled autonomous operational wireless charging solutions in the most extreme environments. As we look ahead to where this technology might be of future use across land, sea and air domains, we are excited to explore the endless options. We are delighted to continue to push the boundaries of our technology alongside our partners”.

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EV Pioneer Donut Defence Selected for International Defence Technology Accelerator

Monday, March 24th, 2025

DEFINE Accelerator program, a three-month intensive initiative, brings together top players in defence and security technology to drive innovation, commercialization and global market expansion. Donut Defence is optimistic about the significant support this program will provide for its business scaling efforts and the potential for new partnerships.

The Finnish company Donut Defence, which develops and manufactures electric vehicle technologies for the defence industry, has been selected to participate in the DEFINE Accelerator program. Kicking off today, this international defence industry accelerator is coordinated by the City of Riihimäki and venture capital firm Redstone VC in collaboration with the Finnish Defence Forces as well as leading companies and research institutions in the field. The program connects leading players focused on the development and scaling of defence, security and dual-use technologies.

Donut Defence is transforming military mobility with its groundbreaking modular electric vehicle technologies. The Donut Motor, a powerhouse that boasts unparalleled payload capacity driven by exceptional power and torque density, is a prime example of the company’s innovative approach. The DEFINE Accelerator offers Donut Defence an excellent opportunity to deepen its ties with key industry players and strengthen its position as a global innovator.

“We are honored to join the DEFINE Accelerator program, providing us with a unique opportunity to introduce the game-changing performance of the Donut Motor and further develop our EV technologies. We look forward to building new partnerships to support our growth and help us meet the evolving needs of the defence industry. This selection reinforces our belief in the importance of our disruptive technology and boosts confidence among industry players,” says Michael Waksman, CEO of Donut Defence.

Alongside Donut Defence, several international companies from Finland, Germany and Denmark have been selected for the DEFINE Accelerator program. These companies bring a diverse range of defence security technologies to the table, such as unmanned aerial systems, UAV charging stations, counter-UAV, robotics, energy storage, quantum processors and non-toxic decontamination.

“DEFINE was created to accelerate ecosystem development among NATO countries. Our program helps startups grow rapidly by connecting them with end-users and providing valuable feedback. In addition to standard accelerator criteria—such as team strength, scalability, and innovation—we prioritize startups that bring meaningful solutions to enhance Finland’s and Europe’s security of supply. We also assess how well the Finnish Defence Forces and other security end-users can adopt these solutions. Donut Defence stood out as an easy choice for our second batch. They manufacture the world’s most powerful electric motor, have a highly experienced international team, offer a solution that is easy to adopt and possesses a business model that can scale exceptionally fast,” says The Head of the DEFINE Accelerator program, Director of Technology and Innovation at the City of Riihimäki, Teemu Seppälä.

The DEFINE Accelerator kicks off today with an event in Riihimäki, Finland.

Donut Defence

DEFINE Accelerator

Youtube

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STUB NVG Battery Adapter from Freedom Atlantic

Wednesday, March 19th, 2025

The STUB SBNVG Battery Adapter delivers mission-critical power for your SBNVGs with a secure twist-lock mechanism for fast, one-handed battery swaps. Designed for the modern warfighter, it features an additional USB port for powering essential gear and universal mounting options for seamless helmet integration.

For more information about the STUB, contact them at freedom-atlantic.com/contact

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Corvias Partnership Accelerates Army’s Fort Riley Energy Resiliency, Cost Savings

Sunday, February 23rd, 2025

New solar array part of program to offset 40% of annual consumption costs

Fort Riley, Kan. (February 19, 2025) – Corvias, a leading energy and infrastructure solutions provider, in collaboration with Sunstone Energy Development and City, Light & Power, completed Phase III of an ongoing energy independence and security effort at U.S. Army Garrison Fort Riley, recently marking a month of successful operations as part of its broader mission to support the U.S. Department of Defense’s operational resilience and readiness goals.

The project supports the DOD’s goal to provide 100% of the energy load required to sustain the critical mission of each U.S. military installation by the end of fiscal year 2030.

This latest phase consisted of two solar PV arrays, both of which finished interconnection in December and provide rate stabilization and energy security to Fort Riley housing communities. The program offsets nearly 40% of annual electricity consumed by the housing community and also contributed to the $2 billion of community economic impact recently announced by Fort Riley’s Garrison Commander, Col. Jerry Nunziato.

“This work continues to ensure a reliable and secure supply of energy to on-post housing and the surrounding area,” said Jim Champagne, Corvias Senior Vice President of Asset Management at Fort Riley. “Along with our partners, Corvias continues to implement strategies to mitigate vulnerabilities and potential disruptions that may affect the readiness of service members and their families.”

Over the past 10 years, Sunstone Energy Development, a joint venture between Corvias Solar Solutions and Onyx Renewables, has provided renewable energy solutions across the Corvias Army housing portfolio.

“For Onyx, delivering quality, resilient clean energy solutions is at the core of our mission,” said Kevin Cox, SVP of Origination at Onyx Renewables. “These onsite solar installations at Fort Riley not only enhance energy security and reliability for service members and their families but also underscore the long-term benefits of renewable energy in strengthening critical infrastructure.”

Corvias’ industry-first Solutions Through Partnerships approach is built on a shared commitment to assisting the Department of Defense in sustaining the critical mission of each U.S. military installation by supporting readiness.

The newly completed solar arrays add to two previously completed rooftop phases for the of the Corvias-led solar program at Fort Riley – already one of the largest in the state of Kansas.

For more information on Corvias improvements on Fort Riley, visit our website.

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BlueBird Revolutionizes Tactical VTOL UAVs with Hydrogen Fuel-Cell Technology

Monday, February 17th, 2025

[Emek Hefer, Israel, February 17, 2025] – BlueBird Aero Systems proudly unveils its latest breakthrough: A field-proven operational Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) UAV, powered by a new PEM Fuel-Cell technology developed over the past several years by H3 Dynamics in the USA. This cutting-edge innovation redefines operational capabilities by delivering an electric VTOL UAV with unprecedented flight endurance of over 6 hours, unmatched reliability and a sustainable energy solution.

The WanderB-VTOL is an electric VTOL Mini-UAS, designed for rapid deployment and operation in any environment. Combat-proven, it can effectively function in GPS-denied and spoofed conditions. The WanderB-VTOL is a mature and proven products, in service with over 25 global customers, with more than 350 platforms delivered to date.

The hydrogen fuel-cell powered WanderB-VTOL has accumulated a considerable number of flight-hours that validated the system’s exceptional performance, including continuous operation for over six hours. BlueBird Aero Systems’ rigorous testing has demonstrated reliability and mission readiness. The fuel-cell enables up to 1000 operational hours (until maintenance round) and requires easy maintenance.

Bluebird Customer’s will be able to enjoy this extended endurance by upgrading their WanderB-VTOL systems with the new Fuel-Cell power source.

The WanderB-VTOL specifications:

Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW): 18 kg

Flight Endurance: Over 6 hours

Flight Ceiling: 16,000 feet

Payload Capacity: 1.5 kg

Operational Advantages of Fuel-Cells vs. Lithium Batteries

The fuel-cell provides much higher energy-density than Lithium Batteries, allowing the UAV to stay on target for significantly longer durations at the same weight, with significant operational advantages: reducing takeoffs and landings cycles to reduced strain and maintenance cost, longer and more efficient missions, less “dead” time on the way to the target’s area. For example, a mapping flight powered by a fuel-cell can cover a much larger area.

“This is a significant technological milestone for the tactical UAV industry” said Avi Elraz, VP R&D and Engineering.

A Smarter, Greener Energy Solution

At the core of this revolutionary system lies a hybrid solution, combining a hydrogen fuel- cell with a backup battery. The fuel-cell provides a continuous, clean power source, generating electricity through an electrochemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, with water as the only byproduct. The backup battery ensures additional energy when needed and acts as an emergency source of energy.

BlueBird’s solution redefines sustainability in UAV operations, ensuring that environmental responsibility meets high performance. This breakthrough not only offers a significant leap in energy efficiency and mission longevity but also sets a new standard in eco-friendly innovation.

“Bluebird is already leading the VTOL UAV market with battle-proven, reliable and capable UAVs, and now, with WanderB-VTOL powered by Fuel-Cell, even more capable with unmatched endurance for a more effective missions” said Ronen Nadir, Founder and CEO of BlueBird Aero Systems.

With its high performance, high availability and comprehensive customer-support, BlueBird’s fuel-cell powered WanderB-VTOL is tailored to meet the demands of both military and civilian markets.

For more information about the fuel-cell powered WanderB-VTOL and BlueBird’s range of UAS solutions, please visit www.bluebird-uav.com

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Army Scientists Develop New Battery Treatment Process

Tuesday, February 4th, 2025

ADELPHI, Md. — U.S. Army scientists have developed a new surface treatment that could lead to more efficient and longer-lasting batteries for military applications.

The team at the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Army Research Laboratory, known as DEVCOM ARL, created a process that treats multivalent metal electrodes with an acidic solution, creating an ultra-thin protective layer that improves overall battery performance.

“This quick, commercially viable treatment process creates a unique interphase layer that’s thinner than a human hair, yet significantly impacts how rechargeable zinc batteries perform,” said Dr. Travis Pollard, a chemist at DEVCOM ARL. “For Soldiers, this could eventually mean more reliable and longer-lasting power for their essential equipment.”

The research team’s work focuses on next-generation battery technology that goes beyond current lithium-ion capabilities. Their approach includes applying an acidic solution to the battery’s metal electrode, followed by a controlled drying process that creates a specialized thin protective layer.

Potential applications include:

Military energy storage systems
Portable electronics
Electric vehicles
Grid-scale energy storage
Advanced defense systems
Portable power solutions

The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office published the patent application (20240387882) on Nov. 21, 2024, following the team’s May 21, 2024, filing. The research team includes Drs. Lin Ma, Marshall A. Schroeder, Oleg A. Borodin, Travis P. Pollard and Kang Xu. The technology, as part of a growing portfolio of disclosures related to zinc/multivalent rechargeable batteries, will soon be available for licensing through the Army’s technology transfer program, offering opportunities for commercial development and broader applications beyond military use.

“We don’t just do research here; we try to make sure that our breakthroughs have the widest possible impact,” said AnnMarie Martin, team lead, Technology Transfer. “Through our technology transfer programs, we look for partners in industry, whether it’s big corporations or small startups, to take our ideas and develop them into commercial products.”

Martin said the new battery tech could be used in everything from military equipment to electric cars.

“This is a great way to ensure our taxpayer dollars have the biggest impact,” she said.

For information, visit the lab’s webpage on patent license agreements, or reach out to the laboratory via the contact us page.

By U.S. Army DEVCOM Army Research Laboratory Public Affairs

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Army Considers Microreactors to Increase Installation Readiness and Resilience

Tuesday, December 31st, 2024

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Army is engaging with the advanced nuclear energy industry to explore potentially siting a microreactor on one or more Army installations by 2030, in furtherance of the Army’s commitment to installation resilience and mission readiness.

“When it comes to installation energy resilience and reliable power to support operational and strategic readiness on installations, we can’t leave anything off the table,” said Rachel Jacobson, Assistant Secretary of the Army for Installations, Energy and Environment. “We are actively developing a solution set that includes all types of power that will meet those needs; nuclear is one that we are looking at as part of our deliberate and thoughtful planning.”

Advanced nuclear power is one solution under consideration as part of a deliberate and thoughtful planning process aimed at ensuring reliable energy access for critical military missions.

The Army is dedicated to developing a comprehensive set of energy solutions, including nuclear, to meet its future needs. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance mission assurance, readiness and power-projection capabilities through a forward-leaning energy enterprise that leverages next-generation technologies.

The Army has partnered with the Defense Innovation Unit, interagency partners and utility providers to evaluate environmental, economic and safety factors that are crucial for determining reactor placement and operation.

From U.S. Army Public Affairs

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