Military technology has evolved quickly over the past decade, with land based defence systems becoming increasingly sophisticated and its technologically more advanced. At On-systems we've witnessed how these developments have transformed power requirements in the defence sector, and how its driven innovation in everything from armoure vehicles to field communication systems.
The Evolution of Land Military Systems
Military operations now need unprecedented levels of tech integration. The armed forces rely on complicated networks of interconnected systems that require robust, reliable power to function properly in very challenging environments. From advanced radar to electronic warfare equipment, the power demands of defence technology is growing rapidly.
The digital shift has been particularly notable in land military operations. Command and control systems now use real time data processing, satellite communications and AI which require stable, uninterrupted power supplies that can withstand the risks of military deployment.
Key Technological Advances
Vehicle Mounted Systems
Military vehicles are now mobile command centres equipped with a plethora of cutting edge features:
- Advanced communication arrays
- Navigation and targeting systems
- Electronic countermeasure equipment
- Climate control for sensitive electronics
- Charging stations for portable equipment
These kinds of set up need power that can operate reliably in extreme temperature ranges whilst keeping a consistent output throughout vehicle movement and vibration.
Portable Field Equipment
The increase in the use of portable military tools has created new challenges for power system designers. Personnel now carry a range of electronic devices, from night vision equipment to communication systems and each require lightweight and durable power.
Batteries have become important for portable equipment with lithium ion and advanced battery chemistries giving the energy needed for extended field operations essential in mission critical situations.
Power System Requirements in Military Applications
Environmental Resilience
Land and defence power systems must operate perfectly in environments that would challenge even the most advanced civilian equipment including:
- Temperatures ranging from -40°C to +70°C
- High humidity and salt spray
- Shock and vibration from vehicles and weapons
- Electromagnetic interference
- Dust and debris ingress
Reliability and Redundancy
During military use, power system failure can have catastrophic consequences. The latest military power solutions use multiple layers of redundancy and fail safe mechanisms to ensure continuous operation even in the incident of individual component failure.
New Trends and Future Tech
Hybrid Power
Bringing together renewable energy sources and traditional power is becoming more popular in the defence industry. Solar panels and fuel cells are being incorporated more and more into operating bases and vehicle mounted systems to reduce logistic burdens and keeping to high operational capability.
Smart Power
Advanced power management now utilise artificial intelligenceand machine learning algorithms to optimise power distribution depending on the operational needs. These systems can predict power demands, automatically switch between power sources and provide real time diagnostics to personnel.
Our Role in Military Power
Here at On-systems we know that military power requirements are more than a simple energy supply. Our MIL-COTS power supplies and power supply designs are created to meet the stringent standards of defence departments and include ruggedised design, extensive testing and compliance with specifications.
We work closely with land and defence organisations to develop bespoke power that meets operational needs with the flexibility to adapt to evolving missions. We are committed to supporting critical applications with innovative power design and manufacturing personalised to the demands of operations.
Get in touch with a member of our team who can guide you towards your ideal power supply or begin the process of a bespoke design for your power needs.
