Hybrid power-an enabling technology for future combat systems

Futuristic weapon systems, including lasers, high power microwave systems, and electric guns may have potential to substantially increase capability to defeat enemy forces with significantly less logistics burden. However, a vast majority of the military community does not project that these weapons will be incorporated into the designs of ground combat platforms in the near future. The major barrier preventing advanced concepts from being weaponized is the lack of compact pulsed power systems required for operating them. The DARPA Combat Hybrid Power Systems (CHPS) program was established to investigate hybrid electric power systems that might provide all the energy and power needs of improved future combat vehicles specifically the transient, continuous and pulsed power necessary to drive advanced weapons systems, mobility systems, communications systems and protective systems. By exploiting the benefits of hybrid power, power management and power sharing, it may become possible to design future combat vehicles with advanced weapons and protection systems, while reducing logistical requirements (by increasing efficiency) and reducing overall weight and volume. This paper describes the CHPS program goals and accomplishments as well as provide insight on how the CHPS approach to design of future vehicles is an essential step toward demonstrating lightweight, future ground combat vehicles capable of improved mobility, lethality, survivability and sustainability.