Oshkosh Defense and Michigan Technological University’s Advanced Power Systems Research Center (APS LABS) have partnered to develop a vehicle-mounted power kit for military equipment, with four prototypes planned for testing.
The Vehicle Integrated Power Kit (VIPK) is designed to generate up to 120 kilowatts of electricity at 600 volts of direct current.
Potential uses include powering counter-drone equipment, directed-energy weapons, missile defenses, command posts, and field hospitals.
The effort focuses on preparing the prototype for production and integration with the Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles A2, which Oshkosh manufactures for the US Army.
“We are enabling the integration of emerging power solutions in a way that aligns with the platform’s design and performance, allowing soldiers to operate critical systems with greater flexibility and reliability in complex environments,” said Jeff Heggemeier, VP and General Manager at Oshkosh Defense.
By generating electricity on the vehicle, the kit is intended to reduce reliance on external power sources, according to Oshkosh.
Prototype Testing
APS LABS will contribute research and integration expertise, while Oshkosh will help adapt the design for manufacturing and compatibility with the trucks.
The partners will first complete and validate two prototypes for government assessment and soldier evaluation.
APS LABS will then build two more for further testing and demonstrations.
Alongside those trials, the team will refine the design and finalize the technical documentation needed to manufacture the kit.
The system is designed to meet the Tactical Microgrid Standard, allowing it to work with other compatible field power systems.