Executive Summary
This RAND report, Volume 2 of a series, surveys advancements in energy and water technologies with potential to support U.S. Air Force agile operations in contested environments. It updates evaluations of electricity generation, energy storage, and water treatment technologies, assessing their technical maturity, deployability, and cost. Key findings highlight progress in existing power technologies like batteries and airborne wind turbines, alongside early-stage development of transformational technologies such as fusion and microreactors.
Why It Matters
This document is crucial for defense analysts as it details technological advancements in energy and water solutions directly impacting the U.S. Air Force's ability to conduct agile operations in contested environments, thereby enhancing strategic flexibility and reducing logistical vulnerabilities.
Key Takeaways
- Existing power technologies like batteries and airborne wind turbines are nearing operational readiness due to cost and performance improvements.
- Transformational technologies such as nuclear fusion and microreactors are progressing but remain in early development stages with significant challenges.
- Deployable energy and water solutions can significantly reduce logistical burdens and enhance operational resilience for forward operating bases.
- Airspace integration and specialized training are critical considerations for the effective deployment of advanced energy systems like airborne wind turbines.
- Fuel cells offer clean, scalable power but require secure fuel supply chains and specialized maintenance, limiting their immediate widespread adoption in austere environments.
Strategic Relevance
The strategic relevance lies in enhancing the U.S. Air Force's ability to sustain agile combat employment (ACE) operations by reducing reliance on vulnerable fuel and water supply chains. By leveraging advanced energy generation and water purification technologies, the USAF can improve operational reach, endurance, and resilience in contested environments, directly supporting great power competition objectives.