The aviation major secured a contract from the Office of Naval Research to design and develop solid oxide fuel cell generator sets as an alternative to traditional battlefield power generation equipment, and will integrate this technology with solar panels.
The term of the $3m contract is expected to be 32-months at the end of which, Lockheed Martin will demonstrate and deliver a multi-kilowatt JP-8 compatible Fuel Cell Efficient Power Node for evaluation by the US Marines.
Lockheed Martin Mission Systems & Sensors vice president of new ventures Dan Heller said that the company was in agreement with the US Department of Defense’s goal of reducing its operational costs while keeping the troops safe.
"Alternative energy solutions, such as the fuel cell we are developing for the Office of Naval Research, can help mitigate these challenges, advancing the strength and flexibility of our military operating in some of the world’s toughest conditions."
The company has also received competitive grants from the Ohio Third Frontier for the program and will partner with Cleveland-based TMI for the development of the fuel cell.
