Saft to power Spanish Future Soldier Programme, COMFUT
Saft, maker of high technology batteries, has been chosen for the second phase of the COMFUT programme (”Combatiente Futuro”), a programme in three phases that aims to modernise the Spanish Army and led by EADS CASA.
This second phase concerns the design and development of primary and rechargeable batteries destined to equip the Spanish infantry personnel during their future missions. It will last for two years, from 2007 to 2008.
EADS CASA chose Saft’s solution for the power supply (Fuente de Alimentacion F.A.L) necessary for the COMFUT suit that each infantry personnel will be equipped with. This whole project will be conducted with Saft Power Systems Iberica and Amopack, partners of the Group in Spain regarding lithium batteries for defence.
Saft had already played a part in the success of the first phase of the COMFUT programme by providing prototypes of primary and rechargeable batteries during the feasibility study.
The lithium-ion and primary lithium batteries designed and manufactured at the Saft site in Poitiers will constitute COMFUT’s main source of energy. They will power the night vision device, the radio and the weapon sight in particular, guaranteeing the security of the soldiers: identify, locate, communicate and engage.
Saft will design 4 types of batteries (2 primary and 2 rechargeable);12 prototype systems will be supplied between now and the end of 2007 and 24 others before the end of 2008 These 36 systems will equip three combat sections and field tests will take place between 2008 and 2009. At the outcome of these tests, the Spanish Ministry of Defence could decide to pass onto phase 3 (industrialisation) and could envisage acquiring up to 9,000 units.
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