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Current unmanned systems rely on either rechargeable batteries, an internal combustion engine or a combination of the two, depending on the size of the system, to provide power for propulsion and the various sensor systems mounted on the platform. The major problem related to both of the solutions is lack of time on station/mission endurance. Reducing the weight or increasing the energy density of the energy source frees up payload that can be applied to other systems or a lighter system that has longer mission times. A major effort for reducing this weight is the replacement of these systems with a fuel cell. This report identifies the state-of-the-art of fuel cell technologies as they can be applied to various unmanned vehicles, aerial, ground, above and below water systems.

Current unmanned systems rely on either rechargeable batteries, an internal combustion engine or a combination of the two, depending on the size of the system, to provide power for propulsion and the various sensor systems mounted on the platform. The major problem related to both of the solutions is lack of time on station/mission endurance. Reducing the weight or increasing the energy density of the energy source frees up payload that can be applied to other systems or a lighter system that has longer mission times. A major effort for reducing this weight is the replacement of these systems with a fuel cell. This report identifies the state-of-the-art of fuel cell technologies as they can be applied to various unmanned vehicles, aerial, ground, above and below water systems.

Fuel cell;Hydrogen;Proton exchange membrane;Solid oxide;Unmanned system

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