Aerospace & Defense

The aerospace and defense sectors require power solutions that deliver unmatched reliability, safety, and performance in the most extreme conditions. Batteries play a vital role in supporting complex systems across both military and commercial applications, from avionics and satellite communications to mission-critical backup power.

Military helicopters flying in the air for U.S. national defense.

Powering Aerospace & Defense Applications

Battery technology enables a wide range of essential functions across aerospace and defense, including:

Military & Commercial Aviation – Providing backup power for avionics, flight control systems, and emergency operations, as well as advanced designs for drones, aircraft, and helicopters that demand superior power, performance, and reliability.
Tactical & Ground Vehicles – Ensuring dependable energy for communications, surveillance, mobility, and other essential mission functions.
Space Exploration & Satellites – Supplying long-lasting, high-performance power sources for spacecraft, satellites, and deep-space missions where continuous, reliable energy is essential.
Naval & Submarine Operations – Enabling silent propulsion and supporting vital onboard systems with safe, reliable power for submarines and other navel vessels.
Military Base Backup Power – Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) deliver large-scale, rechargeable energy reserves to sustain communications, tactical controls, and critical infrastructure during outages.

For the U.S. military, downtime is never an option—even in peacetime. Batteries supplied by BCI members ensure that soldiers in every branch of service, across all corners of the world, can continue to protect American interests.

Download Our Report: Energy Storage for Critical U.S. Military Applications

U.S. military submarine submerging in the water.

Mission-Critical Energy Solutions

In defense and aerospace, reliability is non-negotiable. Batteries are a cornerstone of mission success, ensuring continuous operation in the air, on land, and at sea. Whether powering fighter jets, radar systems, or submarine propulsion, energy storage solutions are essential for national security and technological advancements.

With $7.5 billion in annual U.S. government and defense spending, investments in advanced energy storage solutions play a crucial role in driving innovation, enhancing operational capabilities, and strengthening defense readiness.

U.S. military mission in extreme heat using satellite communications.

High-Performance Power for Complex Applications

Aerospace and defense systems operate in some of the most demanding environments on Earth and beyond. Batteries provide critical power for aircraft engines, navigation systems, radar, and satellite communications—ensuring uninterrupted performance in high-stakes situations.

Advanced battery technologies are engineered to withstand extreme temperatures, shock, and vibration, delivering consistent and efficient energy storage for missions where failure is not an option.

Argonne National Lab at the University of Chicago. — Photo Credit: R. Fenner, Argonne National Laboratory

Innovation in Power Solutions

As the aerospace and defense industries evolve, so do the energy solutions that power them. Ongoing advancements in battery technology are enhancing efficiency, longevity, and resilience to meet the growing demands of military and commercial applications.

Through continued research, industry partnerships, and investment in domestic manufacturing, next-generation battery systems are paving the way for improved system performance, secure supply chain, and a stronger national defense.

Discover More About Battery Research and Partnerships