Aerospace and defense batteries are subjected to high market growth. There is an increasing requirement for high-performance, lightweight batteries in space exploration missions, advanced aerospace and defense systems technologies, and sustainable aviation technologies. The rise of urban air mobility (UAM) vehicles, miniaturized electronic devices, wearable technology, and space launches further creates demand for high-energy-density batteries.
According to data insights from BIS Research, the global aerospace and defense battery market is expected to reach $20.87 Billion in 2033, from $8.62 billion in 2022, at a CAGR of 8.47% during the forecast period 2023-2033.
In March 2023, BAE Systems and Heart Aerospace collaborated to develop an innovative battery system for Heart's ES-30 regional electric airplane. This battery enables efficient, zero-emission, and low-noise operations. BAE Systems' extensive experience in battery development for heavy-duty ground applications and safety-critical aerospace control systems makes them an ideal partner. The ES-30 airplane, powered by four electric motors, offers a 200 km all-electric range and scalable battery upgrades for longer flight durations. It has gathered significant industry interest with 230 orders, 100 options, and a letter of intent for an additional 108 aircraft.
In May 2023, South Korea's Hanwha Aerospace invested in American startup Forge Nano, known for its precision nano-coating technology that extends the lifespan of secondary batteries. Hanwha joined Series C investment, alongside American investors, to contribute to a combined $50 million investment in Forge Nano. The startup will utilize the funds to enhance materials technology and build a 1-gigawatt-hour pilot plant. Hanwha Aerospace's acquisition aims to create synergy for eco-friendly power and energy storage systems in urban air mobility, submarines, and private vessels, emphasizing the importance of next-generation battery technology in future mobility solutions.
In September 2023, the University of Texas at Dallas (UT Dallas) was awarded $30 million by the Department of Defense (DOD) to develop and commercialize advanced battery technologies and manufacturing processes, improve the availability of critical raw materials, and train a skilled workforce for the expanding battery energy storage sector. The project will establish an Energy Storage Systems Campus, marking the largest federal allocation UT Dallas has received. Dr. Kyeongjae Cho's initiative, known as the Batteries and Energy to Advance Commercialization and National Security (BEACONS) Center, will focus on optimizing existing battery systems, developing new battery chemistries, addressing supply chain challenges, and workforce development. It will also include a new research facility in Richardson, Texas. UT Dallas aims to promote innovation in battery technology and manufacturing while bolstering the domestic supply chain for defense and commercial energy storage systems.
In July 2023, United Airlines invested in Electric Power Systems (EPS), a Utah-based company specializing in adaptable battery technology with applications in aerospace. EPS's module technology can optimize performance and safety for various batteries. United Airlines is exploring EPS modules for immediate and long-term use in its operations to support decarbonization. The airline is considering electric options for its pilot training academy and sees EPS's powertrain as a potential core propulsion system for future electric aircraft. Moreover, United has many electric ground equipment items, and EPS's battery modules could be used for charging and other purposes, including cargo container electrification. EPS aims to provide a comprehensive battery ecosystem for aviation, emphasizing energy storage with minimal weight to make electric aviation more economically competitive with conventional fossil fuel-powered planes. United's investment is part of its efforts to advance electric aviation technology and promote sustainability in the industry.
In April 2023, Chinese battery giant CATL launched a condensed matter battery designed to provide the energy required to power electric passenger aircraft for civil aviation use. This semi-solid state battery utilizes a condensed electrolyte, new anode, and separator materials, achieving an energy density of 500 watts hours per kilogram (Wh/kg). CATL collaborates with undisclosed partners to ensure the battery meets aviation safety and quality standards. They also plan to mass-produce this condensed matter battery for electric vehicles in 2023. This technology is part of the ongoing effort to enhance the energy density of lithium-ion batteries, with existing models at under 300 Wh/kg. CATL has also announced its targets to achieve carbon neutrality in its battery manufacturing plants by 2025 and throughout its battery value chain by 2035 to comply with international carbon emission standards as it expands into new markets.
Leading companies like Saft, ECOBAT, and G.S. Yuasa International Ltd. are investing in innovative aerospace and defense batteries. The market is expected to grow as players and government agencies invest in advanced technologies, enhancing performance and effectiveness.
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