Portable power sources for the special operations command

Summary form only given. This report addresses the assessment of portable power needs for the USSOCOM and identifies low risk solutions attainable over the next few years. Power levels of 1, 10, 50, and 150 watts were initially considered. To ensure current requirements, an equipment need assessment was performed through visits to active USSOCOM users and material developers. The power technology assessment phase began with a formal market survey of current and future technologies. Concurrently, the Army Research Laboratory pursued their own assessment of government and industrial programs and future technologies. Key technologies included: batteries, engines, fuel cells, capacitors and solar cells. Both phases were combined in an overall assessment of special operations forces specific equipment needs and possible technological solutions. Recommendations for future work were drawn up to include cost, description, justification and schedule. These recommendations were prioritized for future funding