UK Defence Innovation (UKDI) has launched the Tactical Power Challenge, an initiative aimed at identifying and developing technologies to support future deployed military operations. The challenge seeks innovative solutions to meet the British Army's increasing demand for electrical power on the battlefield.
The initiative includes a two-stage funded competition, 'Innovative Tactical Power Solutions', offering £2.45 million (ex-VAT) for technologies at Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 4 to 6. Successful innovators may receive funding to mature and demonstrate their technologies, with project activity expected to conclude by March 2028.
A separate, non-funded market engagement, 'Immediate Power', is also part of the challenge, targeting technologies already at TRL 6 or above that could address current operational requirements. Innovators with solutions of particular interest may be invited to participate in future Army trials within the UK.
John Cunningham, Director Innovation for UK Defence Innovation, stated that reliable and deployable power is fundamental to maintaining operational advantage. He added that the challenge aims to identify and develop sovereign technologies to improve operational energy resilience and support deployed personnel.
The British Army is seeking innovations in power provision, storage, recharge, distribution, and management across the tactical battlespace. This includes safer alternatives to lithium-ion batteries, high-speed charging, and silent power generation systems.