Possibilities of Powering Military Equipment Based on Renewable Energy Sources

Abstract

Nowadays, the land forces of the Republic of Poland use mainly two forms of powering their equipment and military devices: by connecting various devices to the national power grid and by diesel-electric generators of individual vehicles. With the first solution, power cuts have to be taken into account. In the latter case, it is necessary to ensure large fuel deliveries on a timely manner. It entails a search for new solutions able to effectively meet the needs of an individual soldier and command posts. It has inspired engineers to work on renewable energy sources. This review paper presents a concept for photovoltaic cells usage and a concept for air turbines used to charge electric power sources of different powers for the individual needs of soldiers and command posts. Examples of solutions for mobile energy systems are presented in the research work. They were verified in terms of their suitability for military applications. The concept of using a personal device to supply power for charging batteries and elements of individual soldier equipment, including low-power radio stations, has been presented as well.