White PaperDefense
EaglePicher Technologies Leads the Charge in Military Aviation Battery Solutions
SPONSORED BY: ![]()
As military aviation demands increase, EaglePicher Technologies is at the forefront of high-power energy storage with its lithium-ion battery solutions. Recently selected to supply batteries for the Saab Gripen E-series fighter, EaglePicher brings decades of experience, from pioneering lithium-ion use in the B-2 Stealth Bomber to developing sophisticated battery management systems for modern military aircraft. EaglePicher's commitment to domestic manufacturing ensures reliability and safety for U.S. military operations and enhancing performance in extreme conditions.
Don't have an account?
Overview
The white paper discusses the considerations and advancements in battery technology for military aviation, focusing on the use of lithium-ion batteries by EaglePicher Technologies. It highlights the contrast between commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) cells and custom-designed batteries for military applications. While COTS cells have become more affordable and accessible, they often lack the necessary performance and environmental capabilities required for military use. Military applications demand batteries that can withstand high-shock, vibration, and thermal environments, which necessitates advanced design and manufacturing approaches. Additionally, the unpredictability of material and design changes in COTS products poses significant risks, particularly in terms of supply chain stability, as many COTS cells are sourced from Asia.
EaglePicher addresses these challenges by designing, developing, testing, and manufacturing batteries domestically, ensuring continuity and availability for long-life military airframes. The paper emphasizes the importance of system safety in high-performance aviation applications, particularly when crew safety is at stake. EaglePicher adopts a holistic approach to safety, focusing on every aspect of the battery system, from chemistry selection to thermal management and structural robustness.
The paper also outlines the evolution of battery management systems (BMS), which have become increasingly sophisticated, incorporating enhanced performance and safety features, two-way communication with aircraft systems, and adaptive charging capabilities. EaglePicher's designs comply with the highest safety standards, including FAA regulations.
EaglePicher's history in military aviation dates back to the 1970s, with significant milestones including the first use of lithium-ion batteries by the U.S. Air Force in the B-2 Stealth Bomber. The company is now developing high-power and high-voltage systems for advanced aircraft like the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter. The paper highlights the potential applications of EaglePicher's high-power cells beyond aviation, including extreme low-temperature operations suitable for arctic environments and deep space missions.
In summary, the white paper illustrates EaglePicher Technologies' commitment to advancing battery technology for military aviation, addressing safety, performance, and reliability challenges while ensuring domestic manufacturing and supply chain stability.