UK Launches £2.45m Tactical Power Challenge to Cut Army’s Reliance on Fuel Generators

UK Launches £2.45m Tactical Power Challenge to Cut Army’s Reliance on Fuel Generators
U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Cesar Rivas via DVIDS ©

UK Defence Innovation (UKDI) has opened a £2.45 million competition to find new ways of generating, storing and distributing electrical power for deployed forces, according to UKDI. The British Army commissioned the challenge, with support from the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl).

Two routes for industry

The Tactical Power Challenge offers two opportunities. Innovative Tactical Power is a two-stage funded competition for technologies at Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 4 to 6. Funded projects will run until March 2028.

Immediate Power is a separate market engagement with no funding attached. It targets technologies already at TRL 6 or above. The Army may invite selected innovators to future trials in the UK.

Rising demand on the battlefield

British and Australian Army experimentation has shown a sharp rise in power demand. Communications, uncrewed systems, sensors, electronic warfare kit, counter-UAS tools and edge computing all drive that growth.

Fuel-powered generators still supply most in-service power. They are noisy, hard to transport and dependent on resupply.

UKDI wants safer alternatives to lithium-ion batteries, high-speed charging and new generation systems. It also seeks soldier-carried power and tools that let commanders manage electricity across dispersed formations. Bidders may submit complete systems or individual components.

Procurement and partners

The Army holds a requirement for more than 4,000 Lightweight Field Generators. Successful technologies could support future acquisition as existing equipment nears replacement.

Australia’s Advanced Strategic Capabilities Accelerator (ASCA) is running a parallel challenge. Submissions may go to the Australian Department of Defence for assessment. Outputs may also reach Australian and US partners.

Director Innovation John Cunningham said reliable power is “fundamental to maintaining operational advantage”.

Stage 1 opened at 12 noon GMT on 15 October 2026. Submissions close at 12 noon GMT on 10 November 2026. Stage 2 is by invitation only.

Learn more on the UK MoD website

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