Head protection and power/data management specialist Galvion has delivered the first order of its Nerv Centr MAX-8 mission adaptive charging stations to US tactical uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) manufacturer AeroVironment (AV), Galvion announced on 7 November 2024.
The initial order of 400 units will be followed-up with an additional 800, to be delivered during 2025 and 2026 as part of a long-term purchasing agreement.
Galvion’s MAX-8 has been integrated to deliver intelligent and adaptable charging for AV’s UAV battery systems, replacing the existing solution. Following close collaboration and extensive testing, Galvion successfully designed a universal adaptor that enables the MAX-8 to interface across AV’s range of small uncrewed aircraft systems (SUAS). This partnership extends beyond the initial orders, as the two companies will collaborate on future UAV charging solutions to meet evolving needs and drive continued product innovation.
Galvion’s Nerv Centr MAX-8 is a portable charging solution built to withstand the harsh conditions of expeditionary operations, in which UAVs are becoming increasingly vital. With the ability to draw power from multiple sources, including AC, solar and vehicle, the MAX-8 battery adapters offer the ability to charge different types of UAVs and other batteries simultaneously, with no setting changes needed. The MAX-8 features intelligent functionality, including prioritisation of needs, topping off the fullest battery first, automatic evaluation of power source and adjustment of charge rates to maximise power and minimise charge time.
“AV is proud to partner with Galvion for our battery power management solutions for our small UAS. This universal battery charger provides our customers with seamless plug-and-play functionality, featuring universal adapters that enable efficient charging for all of AV’s current and future batteries across both our small UAS and ground control stations,” Mike Jorgens, AV’s senior product line manager, was quoted as saying in a Galvion press release.
Todd Stirtzinger, CEO at Galvion, added, “Our relationship with AV is a great example of Galvion’s commitment to developing productive collaborations with industry partners to better serve the warfighter. AV is recognised as a leader in designing and delivering innovative UAS solutions; Galvion is an expert in power management and charging. Together, we can accelerate the pace of innovation by helping AV focus on UAS systems, while we concentrate on maximising operational efficiency by keeping them charged.
“With this initial order of 400 MAX-8 charging stations and customised adaptor delivered, and another 800 in the pipeline, we’re very much looking forward to building our relationship with AV and finding opportunities to further drive industry advancements,” Stirtzinger added.
