Army orders SWIPES power system

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ANN ARBOR, Mich., Feb. 26 (UPI) -- The U.S. Army has ordered Arotech Corp.'s Soldier-Wearable Integrated Power Equipment System for extended mission time and reduced weight.

Arotech said the order was for 1,500 SWIPES units. The monetary value of the order wasn't disclosed.

The SWIPES device utilizes a modular power distribution system powered by BA-8180/U, BA-8140/U Zinc-air batteries or LI-145, BB2590 rechargeable batteries for direct power to equipment. The high-energy density of the system means soldiers can use the system for longer periods of time, reducing the need to swap batteries while on a mission and the need to carry extra batteries.

System batteries continuously charge secondary batteries inside various devices -- radios and GPS units, for example.

"Reducing the load on a soldier and simplifying the supply logistics promoted SWIPES to be awarded the accolade of a Top-10 Best Army Inventions in 2011," said Arotech Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Robert S. Ehrlich. "This follow-on order from the U.S. army is testament to the effectiveness of our product and reflects its increasing acceptance among U.S. ground forces."

The SWIPES device is worn on a soldier's standard MOLLE vest.