The US Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) has awarded a contract to Saft to improve the advanced lithium power source (ALPS) battery for use in a wide range of military applications.
Under the terms of $1.2 contract, Saft will specifically enhance the technical and manufacturing readiness of the ALPS battery for use in the long-range advanced scout surveillance system (LRAS3) in the next one year.
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The enhanced ALPS battery will be lighter by 187lb compared with the existing LRAS3 power sources, and features an extended lifespan and quicker recharging function.
Saft specialty battery group general manager Thomas Alcide said the manufacturing improvements would address the additional tactical needs for troops in future.
“The ALPS battery will provide greater power capacity, speed and efficiencies in the field, which are crucial to mission success for our military personnel,” Alcide added.
Capable of recharging from tactical vehicles, the battery will serve as a remote energy source and power critical sighting and communications equipment in the battlefield.
An integrated charger version of the battery will also be developed by the company through integration of components of the lithium battery box (LBB) for improved target acquisition system (ITAS) developed for the TOW missile.
Capable of offering 24V to 28V power, the battery will feature a 100amp hour energy storage unit with built-in charging functionality that is fully compliant with 28V MIL vehicle batteries and AC generators.
Ten ALPS batteries will be provided by the company to US Army Communications-Electronics Research, Development and Engineering Center (CERDEC), and a few units to the US Army Product Manager Ground Sensors for field trails.
Manufactured by Raytheon, the LRAS3 is an advanced multi-sensor system designed to detect, identify and geolocate long-range targets in virtually any condition.
