To provide reliable, effective power for military and defense customers, Ultralife Corporation has expanded its tactical power portfolio by introducing new lightweight chargers designed to help defence organisations comply with international air-transportation rules for lithium-ion batteries. The new range includes single-, dual-, six- and eight-bay systems for Land Warrior or UBI-2590 battery formats, supporting two commonly deployed power sources in soldier-worn and field-portable electronics.
Recent changes to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) regulations require all lithium-ion batteries to be shipped at a 30 per cent state-of-charge (SoC). This has created new logistical challenges for defence teams who must regularly move large quantities of batteries across the air. Ultralife’s latest chargers address this requirement by incorporating a dedicated push-button in each bay that quickly sets individual batteries to the mandated 30 per cent SoC.
Once batteries reach their destination, the same chargers can rapidly charge them back to full SoC at rates of up to four amps per bay, which is approximately twice as fast as many conventional systems and helps reduce turnaround times before deployment.
These chargers support two main battery types that are widely used across modern defence platforms. UBI-2590 batteries, often installed in communications devices and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) robots, can operate in either series or parallel mode and deliver voltages up to 28.8V. Land Warrior batteries, which may weigh as little as 525g, are commonly used for soldier-worn radios and lightweight portable equipment. Because both battery types must now be shipped at 30 per cent SoC, being able to quickly discharge or recharge them upon arrival has become essential.
Ultralife’s new charger models include the UCH0057-01 single-bay charger for 2590 batteries, the UCH0071 six-bay 2590 charger, the UCH0070 eight-bay Land Warrior charger and the UCH0072 two-bay Land Warrior charger. As Land Warrior batteries were developed to reduce weight carried by dismounted soldiers, these new chargers were also designed to be lightweight (weighing from 485g to 5.9Kg).
“Our military customers are facing immense pressure to keep their equipment moving and operational,” explained Bruce Parkinson, applications engineering manager at Ultralife Corporation. “By introducing four new chargers that can quickly charge batteries to 30 per cent SoC before shipment and then quickly back to full SoC afterwards, we’re helping customers reduce logistical complexity while ensuring their power systems remain mission-ready.
“Ultralife has been manufacturing batteries and chargers for international militaries for 20 years, serving applications where power failure is not an option,” added Parkinson. “Helping our customers to stay compliant with the latest transportation and military regulations is of paramount importance to us, and releasing these new chargers is the latest example.”
The combination of lightweight design, advanced charging technology and transport compliance makes these new battery chargers an essential tool for defence organisations across the world. With this latest addition to its tactical power portfolio, Ultralife can help customers overcome logistical challenges, maintain readiness and ensure safe, compliant power.
Ultralife Corporation provides durable, reliable power and communications systems. Our engineering teams operate where commodity solutions fail. To find out more, visit the company’s website and start an enquiry.
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