The US Army has partnered with Raytheon to develop a cutting-edge directed energy wireless power system, a solution that could transform battlefield logistics by eliminating the need to transport fuel and batteries to forward positions.
This ambitious project Is under the Department of Defense’s Operational Energy Strategy to simplify supply lines and enhance operational efficiency. Raytheon’s solution involves high-energy microwave beams that can wirelessly transmit power from secure generator sites to forward locations. Once received, the energy is converted back into electricity, reducing the dependence on supply convoys and enabling uninterrupted operations. The technology builds on principles pioneered by William Brown in the 1950s, who demonstrated the potential of microwave-based energy transmission. Notable advancements include a 1975 experiment that transmitted 475 watts of power across a mile with 54% efficiency, laying the groundwork for today’s innovations.
While wireless power systems have been explored since Nikola Tesla’s era, practical applications have long been limited by physics. Existing technologies, such as wireless chargers for smartphones, work at very short ranges using induction. Raytheon’s approach aims to extend this range significantly, delivering power across long distances with high efficiency.
The system offers additional advantages, including secure communications through the microwave beam and safety features that ensure it poses no risk to humans or animals inadvertently exposed to the transmission. By replacing traditional generators with this wireless solution, the battlefield can be supplied with uniform energy availability, significantly reducing logistical strain.
“This is extremely important in highly contested threat environments where operations are challenged,” said Colin Whelan, president of Advanced Technology at Raytheon.
“Wireless power and data can provide enhanced capability in the future manned and unmanned teaming battle space.”