Thermal Batteries: Role of Innovative Energy Storage Systems in Military Applications

Highlights:

• Introduction
• The transition toward thermal batteries for military applications
• M&A deals signed by leading companies

In the last few years, the arms and ammunition manufacturing industry has witnessed huge growth owing to the rising geopolitical tensions across the globe. The Russia-Ukraine war that started in February 2022 increased the demand for different kinds of weapon systems and missile technologies. Furthermore, the Isreal-Hamas conflict that has been going on since October 2023 has led to a surge in the use of advanced warfare systems such as short-range rockets, mobile radars, long-range air defense apparatus, etc. In addition to this, border disputes between India and China have also caused skirmishes between the militaries of these countries, thus expanding the scope of the sector.

Moreover, the rising threat of terrorism in various developed and developing countries has compelled governments to increase their budgetary spending on modernizing their defense forces. Over the years, there has been a growing emphasis on upgrading the weapons systems and counterterrorism capabilities of the paramilitary squadrons, thus creating new investment opportunities for the arms and ammunition sector. Recently, to cater to these evolving demands, multinational defense companies have developed advanced technologies like thermal batteries that act as specialized energy storage systems for military applications.

Increased deployment of thermal batteries for military applications fueling industry growth

Thermally active energy storage systems, also called thermal batteries, have been used for ordnance and military applications since the Second World War. Historical records have shown that these innovative systems were first deployed by the Germans to power their V2 rockets. Over the years, they have become an integral component of modern arms and ammunition, including air-to-air missiles, surface-to-air defense systems, artillery guns, etc. Even sophisticated tactical nuclear weapons and unmanned aerial vehicles feature advanced thermal batteries due to their reliable nature. In certain extraordinary circumstances, these energy storage systems act as emergency backup systems in naval vessels and military aircraft.

Compared to conventional DC power sources, thermal batteries have a much higher lifespan which makes them ideal for defense applications. These energy storage systems work seamlessly for several years, even decades, without any major degradation in their chemical composition. This helps military forces keep their weapon systems on standby, ready to fire, without having to worry about their power sources.

Moreover, since the lifespan of thermal batteries is longer, the cost of maintenance and repair is reduced drastically, thus helping defense companies develop sturdy and robust equipment and machines. Additionally, these energy sources are easily scalable and can be used for different purposes, ranging from powering large military installations to small weapons and ammunition.

Strategic alliances among leading companies boosting the industry’s revenue

Apart from the unique benefits offered by these innovative energy storage systems, the strategic alliances established by leading companies are expected to help the thermal batteries for military industry to gather a revenue of $274.2 million by 2033. The market accounted for $149.1 million in 2023 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.4% during 2024-2033. In May 2022, Britishvolt, a British startup company, announced that it had signed a definitive agreement to acquire EAS Batteries, an energy storage manufacturing business based in Germany. Over the years, this acquisition has helped Britishvolt to expand its product portfolio, thus increasing the footprint of the company globally.

Similarly, in May 2024, EnerSys, a major energy source manufacturing firm, reported the acquisition of Bren-Tronics, Inc., a key military battery and charger company. Since 1973, Bren-Tronics has been one of the biggest players in the field of defense and military technologies. With offices in the UK, France, and the US, the company recently introduced lithium-ion energy storage solutions, thereby enhancing its revenue share significantly. The acquisition is, hence, expected to help EnerSys strengthen its product development capabilities considerably.

In conclusion, the increasing number of international conflicts, disputes, and terrorist activities has contributed to the growth of the thermal batteries for military industry. The various advantages offered by these innovative energy storage systems such as versatility, durability, and scalability have boosted the revenue share of the sector significantly in the last few years. Moreover, the M&A deals signed by multinational companies are predicted to create favorable conditions for the expansion of the market in the near future.

For more information on the leading growth drivers and investment opportunities in the landscape, contact our experts here!

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