Saft (France), a multi-technology battery specialist for industrial, military, defense, aviation and space applications, announced that the first production lithium-ion (Li-Ion) batteries in support of the US Army’s Tube-Launched, Optically Tracked, Wire-Guided (TOW) Improved Target Acquisition System (ITAS) have been shipped. Saft was awarded the battery contract by Raytheon Company under a program managed by the US Army’s Close Combat Weapons Systems Office. The shipment marks the first in a series of planned deliveries of Li-Ion batteries for the ITAS system.
"Saft’s Li-Ion batteries’ improved performance will enable the US Army to realize a multi-million dollar life-cycle cost savings over the previously installed silver-zinc battery," said Glen Bowling, director of defense sales at Saft’s Space and Defense Division. "In addition, the batteries meet a demanding MIS-PRF specification and provide a reliable, long-life power source for the Army’s Improved Target Acquisition System."
The TOW ITAS is designed to defeat threat-armored vehicles at extended ranges, and provide a long-range surveillance system for the light infantry in all battlefield conditions. The Saft battery provides reduced maintenance, longer run time and longer overall life over the legacy battery.
