US Marine Corps orders 5,000 SoloPack II batteries and $1.5M in cables from Galvion.

On August 7, 2024, Galvion, a provider of integrated power and data management solutions, received significant orders from the United States Marine Corps (USMC) for its Nerv Centr power and data products. These orders include 5,000 SoloPack II lithium-ion rechargeable batteries and a $1.5 million order for additional ancillary cables to support the USMC’s in-service Portable Power Scavenger Systems (P2S2).
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The USMC’s P2S2 kits, which include Galvion’s SPM and a variety of cables, connectors, and accessories, enable the scavenging, distribution, and management of power from multiple sources such as solar, AC, DC, military batteries, NATO plugs, and vehicle cigarette lighter/alternator attachments. (Picture source: Galvion)

The SoloPack II batteries are intended to support the USMC’s fire support and coordination systems, which use portable handheld devices for employing supporting arms in conjunction with maneuver elements. The original 98Wh SoloPack batteries, included in kits since 2018, have been upgraded. The new SoloPack II offers 140Wh of power, providing 40% more power storage capacity while maintaining the same compact form factor. It is designed to fit into a rifle magazine pouch and weighs 750 grams, making it small, lightweight, and energy-dense.

This next-generation battery includes several features such as high power density suitable for typical 24-hour missions, a flexible lead connection for easy orientation, bottom contact charging for faster and more convenient charging, and a push-button state-of-charge display. The SoloPack II is equipped with a next-generation Nett Warrior connector that allows for faster charging and additional current flow. It can be recharged while in flight and is certified safe to fly. The battery meets or exceeds UN 38.3 certification for lithium-ion batteries, IEC 62133-2 safety standards, and MIL-STD 810H environmental test methods for military equipment.

In December 2022, Galvion announced an $11 million order to supply customized Squad Power Manager (SPM) kits to each Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF) within the Marine Corps, including Reserve Forces. The USMC’s P2S2 kits, which include Galvion’s SPM and a variety of cables, connectors, and accessories, enable the scavenging, distribution, and management of power from multiple sources such as solar, AC, DC, military batteries, NATO plugs, and vehicle cigarette lighter/alternator attachments. The SPM kit can convert power from partially discharged batteries, vehicles, and standard electrical outlets into a usable format for powering devices and recharging batteries. The recent order for additional ancillary cables will enhance the functionality of the USMC’s in-service P2S2 kits.

The SoloPack II batteries are intended to support the USMC’s fire support and coordination systems, which use portable handheld devices for employing supporting arms in conjunction with maneuver elements. (Picture source: Galvion)

Todd Stirtzinger, CEO at Galvion, stated that the power supply and management solutions provided by Galvion contribute to a reduction in physical and logistical burdens by sustaining power for longer periods with less weight. He also noted that these new orders are an extension and enhancement of capabilities that Galvion has already supplied to the Marines, reflecting the company's commitment to meeting the evolving needs of its customers. Stirtzinger highlighted that repeat orders from global partners indicate the company's effective response to customer needs, with the latest round of orders from the USMC being a significant development for the entire Galvion team.

The SoloPack II battery, designed and manufactured in the United States, supports various applications, including soldier systems, portable field equipment, advanced sensors and optics, precision navigation equipment, and health monitoring and medical equipment. The battery's technical specifications include a nominal voltage of 15V, a nominal capacity of 9.8Ah, and the ability to operate in extreme temperatures. It is waterproof up to 1 meter for 30 minutes and has a cycle life of over 1,000 cycles. With these features, the SoloPack II is set to enhance the operational capabilities of the USMC and support their critical missions effectively.