FCS changes

Future Combat Systems (FCS) has come under a lot of examination and editorializing recently. In response the Army has indicated the program will be taking a new direction, or rather, moving program emphasis around.

The Army has announced that it will accelerate the delivery of FCS capabilities to infantry brigade combat teams (IBCTs). These technologies will include "Unattended Ground Sensors, the Non Line of Sight-Launch System and network kits for the HMMWV platform. Additionally, the Class I Block 0 Unmanned Air Vehicle (UAV) and the Small Unmanned Ground Vehicle (SUGV)".

More details here.

Source: U.S. Army

New power source gets push

The Defense Department has awarded Adaptive Materials of Ann Arbor MI a $2.35 million Phase II Small Business Innovation Grant.

Adaptive Materials had previously received $1.75 million from the U.S. Army Tank and Automotive Command to develop its propane fuel cell power system for use on iRobot's PackBot. Operational time is reported to have been extended from 2 to 10 hours.

The new grant will move forward Adaptive Material's efforts to develop its' technology for use with UAVs.

Source: Various Photo: Adaptive Materials