By Olawale Abaire, Warrior Editorial Fellow
The U.S. military has expressed interest in new ways to power more vehicle capabilities. Recently, the Marine Corps and U.S. Special Operations Command started a test on the MRZR Alpha vehicle developed by Polaris. This vehicle is designed to add power and payload capacity, meeting the increasing demands of modern warfare.
The MRZR Alpha vehicle is designed to generate electricity to power radars, networks, weapons, and more. This has been a primary focus for the Marine Corps over the last year. The vehicle uses a DC-to-DC power converter that connects to the existing MRZR alternator to export 24-volt power. The power export mechanisms could empower Marines to utilize advanced technology without the burden of transporting a separate generator for power supply. They could leverage the surplus energy to operate the Networking On-the-Move satellite communication system, the Common Aviation Command and Control System – a system that merges data from airborne and land radars and sensors, and the lightweight variant of the Marine Air Defense Integrated System.
Interestingly, the MRZR Alpha vehicle has been compared to other vehicles in its class, and it stands out due to its ability to power offboard systems. It also has a heavy-payload variant that is currently undergoing testing. The vehicle has been designed to meet the Marine Corps’ requirements for the power-export technology to not take up cargo space.
John LaFata, the program manager, emphasized that the Marine Corps’ primary focus over the past year has been to enable MRZR light vehicles to generate electricity for powering radars, networks, weapons, and more. Consequently, Polaris has developed two products: a 1-kilowatt power system that can be added to existing vehicles via a kit, and a 5-kilowatt system that can be integrated into new vehicles during production.
Both systems utilize a DC-to-DC power converter that connects to the existing MRZR alternator to export 24-volt power. The system communicates with the engine to determine the required power, and only increases the engine speed if the connected weapon or sensor demands more power.
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LaFata explained that these power export systems could enable Marines to utilize technology without the need for a separate generator. For instance, they could use the extra energy to power the Networking On-the-Move satellite communications system, the Common Aviation Command and Control System, and the light version of the Marine Air Defense Integrated System.
One of the Marine Corps’ requirements is that the power-export technology should not occupy cargo space. Therefore, Polaris’ solution includes a DC-to-DC converter located between the two rear seats, a power distribution unit and fuse box in the pillar next to the rear passenger side seat, and a small switch installed on the dashboard.
Looking forward, the MRZR Alpha vehicle is expected to play a significant role in the future of warfare. With its ability to power offboard systems and carry heavy payloads, it offers a unique advantage on the battlefield. As emerging threats and technological advancements continue to evolve, the MRZR Alpha vehicle is well-positioned to meet these challenges and contribute to the success of the Marine Corps and U.S. Special Operations Command.
