Energy Storage Requirements For An Advanced Missile System

The present basing concepts for the new MX Missile require a backup power source to be carried by each transporter-launcher. This power source must exhibit very high energy density, high efficiency, long service life and capability for recharge. This paper reviews the candidate technologies including flywheel, engine-generators, fuel cells and batteries. This paper also describes the advanced development pregrain sponsored by the Air Force to establish and validate technologies for this important application.