US Navy expands contract with Packet Digital to advance UAS battery systems

Los Angeles CA (SPX) Jan 22, 2025
Packet Digital has secured additional funding from the U.S. Navy to enhance its development of advanced smart batteries, chargers, and power systems for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). This new contract builds upon the $8.5 million agreement awarded in December 2022, which sought a standardized battery solution for UAS fleet operations, including ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore missions. Packet Digital's comprehensive power solutions integrate high-performance batteries, portable storage systems, and fleet management software, offering a unified approach for ship-based autonomous systems.

Previously, Packet Digital delivered lithium-ion smart battery packs to the Navy. With this new agreement, the company will expand manufacturing capabilities at its Fargo-based facility. The facility's advanced equipment-including a surface mount technology (SMT) line, automated laser and resistance welding machinery, and a cutting-edge assembly space-enables the production of high volumes of smart battery packs tailored for sophisticated UAS systems.

"We have scaled our operations at our manufacturing and assembly facility to meet the increasing demand," said Packet Digital CEO Terri Zimmerman. "We have combined automation with our experienced and talented engineers to achieve unprecedented quality with battery packs and charging systems for the Navy drone fleet."

Beyond battery solutions, Packet Digital is producing advanced charging systems, secure storage containers, and storage racks to safely house these systems aboard Navy vessels. Ensuring safety and reliability as top priorities, the company rigorously tested its storage containers to maintain safe thermal and ventilation conditions, even under extreme scenarios.

Packet Digital's fleet management software enhances operational efficiency by providing real-time data on battery performance, charging status, temperature, and lifecycle diagnostics. This software equips users with the tools to monitor and manage every battery and charging system efficiently.

"We are leveraging automation, state-of-the-art technology, and an experienced workforce to rapidly produce batteries, chargers and software for drones aboard Navy ships," Zimmerman said. "Our products are helping ensure success on critical ship-to-ship and ship-to-shore missions."