New Military Technology – Solar Powered Tanks?

Global military leaders in an effort to be more environmentally responsible have begun researching and implementing uses for solar powered equipment both on and off the battle field.

Projects range from the placement of solar and wind powered grid structures in remote areas to adapting solar pv cells for portable power generation and deployment of micro-grids in forward base operations, the application possibility is growing almost daily.

Even the military is affected by rising fuel costs and concerns over air pollution that is emitted by the running of generators and transport vehicles. Plus there is often a problem getting the fuel to forward bases in remote locations. This is especially true in desert areas where sand storms can bring operations to a halt for hours.

With solar powered energy systems that are light weight, easily installed and portable, setting up an electricity grid is easily accomplished. These systems work well in all types of climates and conditions. The use of solar power reduces the need for conventional fuel supplies to operate the large generators commonly used in base camps, operational centers and medical facilities. Solar powered energy systems require little maintenance and can be customized to withstand local climate conditions.

There is also research in motion for adapting smaller solar cells as a way to power transport and battle vehicles. This would make mobile units even more self-sufficient as there would be no need for carrying fuel cans either on the vehicle or in a support truck. The unit would simply recharge as it rolled along in the sunlight.