In a significant stride towards the modernization of tactical power generation, the 11th Air Defense Artillery Brigade of the U.S. Army played a pivotal role in facilitating the Secure Tactical Advance Mobile Power (STAMP) operational demonstration on August 31, 2023, as reported by Capt. Ego Ekenta from the brigade's Public Affairs division.
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Two Light Medium Tactical Vehicles from Alpha Battery, 2nd Air Defense Artillery Regiment, 11th Air Defense Artillery Brigade, are equipped with tactical microgrid equipment and used during the demonstration at McGregor Range, New Mexico(Picture source: U.S. Army/Spc. Griffin Payne)

This momentous event unfolded at McGregor Range, New Mexico, where the spotlight shone on a cutting-edge prototype known as the tactical microgrid standard MIL-STD-3071. The proceedings featured the active participation of soldiers from the Alpha Battery, 2nd Air Defense Artillery Regiment, 1st Battalion, 43rd Air Defense Artillery Regiment, all hailing from the 11th Air Defense Artillery Brigade. Technical experts from the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Champaign, Illinois, were also present. Together, they delved into the capabilities of two distinct generator-based microgrids, referred to as the DC vehicle and the hybrid AC microgrid generator-based systems.

The tactical microgrid, a power system tailored for warfighters, comprises a mobile and adaptable cluster of interconnected power generation sources, distribution networks, energy storage units, and load devices that function as a unified, manageable system to deliver electricity on the battlefield. The DC vehicle-based microgrid involves the use of modified medium tactical vehicles equipped with exportable power components. These vehicles possess the capability to operate autonomously or interconnect to form a mobile electric power source, thereby eliminating the reliance on conventional generators.

On the other hand, the hybrid AC microgrid seamlessly integrates energy storage with conventional tactical generators. This combination empowers demand reduction, curtails generator operational durations, and ensures uninterrupted backup power during tactical maneuvers. The STAMP operational demonstration represents a joint capability technology exhibition focused on the implementation of a universal battlefield power solution using the tactical microgrid standard.

The demonstration offered a vivid portrayal of how harnessing vehicle-generated power in tandem with AC and hybrid generators enables tactical vehicles to produce power while in motion. This innovation enhances the mobility and flexibility of tactical units while simultaneously alleviating the logistical burden on soldiers operating in contested environments.

Defense News September 2023