Saft Awarded $17.5 Million Contract for the Supply of Multiple Batteries for Military Aircraft

June 17, 2014
Saft will provide nickel-based batteries and cells for military aircraft applications to be used by the United States military.

Paris, June 17, 2014 – Saft, the world’s leading designer and manufacturer of advanced technology batteries for industry, has been awarded a multi-million dollar contract from Defense Logistics Agency Land and Maritime (DLA). Under the contract, totaling $17.5 million, Saft will provide nickel-based batteries and cells for military aircraft applications to be used by the United States military.

The DLA is America’s combat and logistics support agency, providing the Air Force, Army, Marine Corps, Navy, federal agencies and combined allied forces with the full spectrum of logistics, acquisition and technical services. With this agreement, Saft will provide a single interface for the supply of batteries for military aircraft supporting DLA’s customer, the front line troops.

Saft is a leader in providing nickel-based batteries for defense aircraft that boast superior power and energy. The nickel-based batteries for aviation perform exceptionally well in all conditions and provide electrical reliability in extreme temperatures. They are renowned for their safety throughout their extended service life.

Marking continued growing demand for Saft batteries and cells, the sustained supply to DLA demonstrates a strengthened, mutually beneficial and successful relationship. Saft’s deliveries support DLA in its activities positioned alongside the agency’s military customers.

“With this contract, Saft reinforces its presence in the supply of batteries for both the aviation and defense industries,” said Bruce McRae, Director of Aviation, Saft America, Inc. “Saft’s ULM® continues to be a superior solution for DLA and its customers. We look forward to continuing our relationship with DLA and advancing battery and cell technology for defense aircraft.”

Saft will supply Ultra Low Maintenance Battery (ULM®) to support both fixed-wing and rotor-wing aircrafts. The nickel-based batteries provide a nominal voltage of 24 volts. The batteries are comprised of leak-proof thermo-welded cells, seam-welded plate tabs and copper cell links and terminals. They are also constructed using superior separator material and a flooded membrane design.

The three-year contract was signed in late March and includes two, one-year options periods that may be exercised by the U.S. Government, increasing the contract period to five years. Deliveries are set to begin this year.