NanoGraf has delivered its silicon anode batteries to Thales Defense & Security, Inc., set to be used in hand-held software-defined radios for the U.S. military.
Thales Defense & Security, Inc. will utilize NanoGraf’s M38 18650 cells in its multiband software-defined tactical handheld radios. This upgrade will extend mission duration by 10% without increasing the size or weight of the radios.
NanoGraf assert that this order demonstrates the company’s role in onshoring the battery supply chain, including materials, cell production, and battery manufacturing outside of China.
The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) has made several direct investments to help curb the military’s reliance on non-U.S. manufactured battery technology, building significant momentum in supporting domestic battery innovation.
In January 2024, NanoGraf was selected to support the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command C5ISR Center as part of a Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) initiative. This focused on developing a Family of Advanced Standard Batteries (FAStBat) leveraging commercial technologies.
The latest production order is one of several recent developments for the company. In June of this year, NanoGraf completed the first large volume production run for the military, and in March, the company announced a new 67,850-square-foot facility for advanced manufacturing and expanded R&D capabilities.
Gary Kidwell, vice president of communications systems at Thales Defense & Security, Inc., commented; “Batteries are essential to thousands of mission-critical military systems, from hand-held radios and man-portable satellite terminals to unmanned systems and mobile command posts.
“NanoGraf’s silicon anode batteries increase operational runtime for deployed forces and ensures we equip soldiers with the best possible technology available.”
Francis Wang, CEO of NanoGraf, added; “We’re excited that Thales Defense & Security, Inc. selected our proprietary battery technology to equip soldiers with batteries that can last much loner, making their missions run smoother.
“As a U.S. battery maker, getting our batteries in the hands of soldiers is an honor. We are proud to support Thales Defense & Security, Inc. and the U.S. military as we continue our efforts to onshore the entire battery supply chain.”
