R&D Trends for Military Electric Power Sources

The military operational mission imposes stringent design and performance requirements for electric power sources which are not required of commercial counterparts. Developmental thrusts and specific programs are discussed which address these unique technical factors.

Technical approaches being investigated include fuel cells, solid state power conditioners, and engine driven generators powered by diesel, gas turbine, Stirling, and spark ignition engines. Developmental goals require significant improvement in reliability, maintainability, mobility, and signature suppressions (aural and infrared), as well as provisions for NBC survivability.