Solus Power has secured a significant contract with the UK Ministry of Defence aimed at advancing the development of Kratos, an innovative dual-use portable battery system engineered for rugged field operations. This partnership will expedite the move towards field testing, conducted in conjunction with the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl), which is tasked with ensuring that Kratos aligns with the Royal Navy’s Future Commando Force specifications.
Kratos has been aptly dubbed a “Jerry can of electricity,” featuring a compact lithium-ion battery design that allows for rapid direct DC-to-DC charging of various crucial equipment, including surveillance systems and communication devices. This portable battery system is designed to be hand-carried, mounted on vehicles, or even deployed via drones. One of its standout capabilities is its quiet operation and minimal heat emission, which enhance stealth during field operations.
This recent contract marks a continuation of Solus Power’s engagement with the UK Ministry of Defence, following a prior contract secured in September aimed at supporting initial trials of Kratos for forward-deployed and amphibious military units.
In parallel, the UK armed forces are significantly increasing their investment in energy resilience and battlefield electrification. Initiatives by Defence Equipment and Support, alongside the Dstl, are underway to empower troops with the ability to generate, store, and manage power effectively in remote or contested environments.
Reflecting this commitment to sustainability, the UK’s 2024 strategy paper outlines a comprehensive approach to integrating climate resilience, energy independence, and operational sustainability into defense planning. In line with these goals, the UK Ministry of Defence carried out an extensive trial in 2024 involving hydrogen-powered systems, successfully logging over 120,000 miles with GeoPura’s fuel-cell generators, which are intended to replace traditional diesel units at remote military sites.
Future advancements in energy efficiency are also underway, as plans have been set for the Royal Navy to begin testing power-efficient upgrades throughout its fleet. This includes the installation of modernized Link 16 Crypto data systems on the Type 23 frigate HMS Richmond, a move aimed at bolstering connectivity and enhancing energy management capabilities.
