U.S. companies are currently developing batteries, hydrogen drones, and domestically-produced fuels to ensure American forces remain powered, especially if conflicts disrupt overseas supply chains.
This technology was showcased at the recent Association of the U.S. Army’s annual event, which concluded on October 14. According to reports, attacks on merchant vessels in the Strait of Hormuz have surged to levels not seen since the onset of Iran’s conflict.
“The era of stable and predictable logistics is no longer a given,” noted Lt. Gen. Mark Simerly, director of the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA), during the 2026 Defense Logistics & Energy Summit in September. He indicated that energy and fuel are becoming crucial targets and will play a key role in achieving operational success.
Jordan Gillis, Assistant Secretary of the Army for Installations, Energy, and Environment, mentioned in a testimony before a House Armed Services subcommittee that fuel logistics create particular challenges in the Indo-Pacific region, especially on vulnerable islands.
From March to September 2026, the DLA reported that it purchased around 2.17 billion gallons of fuel, mainly to support the Department of War, while selling about 122.7 million gallons for U.S. Army needs. The DLA emphasized its ability to adapt to market changes and geopolitical events to secure fuel supplies, stating that fuels are sourced close to where they are needed by the Warfighter.
At the conference, GM Defense, a subsidiary of General Motors, showcased its EPIQ Hybrid prototype. This system integrates a battery with a generator designed to reduce noise and heat in remote areas, addressing the high fuel consumption risks in logistical operations.
A GM Defense representative explained that by using this hybrid approach, the company has achieved fuel savings of about 50% and has significantly decreased generator runtime. The EPIQ Hybrid is part of a Defense Innovation Unit initiative aimed at lessening logistical demands and diminishing reliance on fossil fuels within the Department of Defense.
The system utilizes battery modules comparable to those in GM electric vehicles, contributing to a more reliable supply chain.
Starting in 2028, federal regulations will prevent the Department of Defense from acquiring advanced batteries for new programs if significant components come from “foreign entities of concern.” Fortunately, GM Defense’s batteries already comply with these guidelines.
Heven AeroTech, situated in Sterling, Virginia, has an agreement with the Army that allows units to request its hydrogen-powered Z1 drone and accompanying hydrogen production equipment. The president of U.S. operations stated that hydrogen systems provide endurance, logistical flexibility, and less dependency on standard fuel and battery sources.
Additionally, Commando Fuels, a New York-based company founded by veterans, produces fuel from domestically-sourced biomass. The CEO emphasized the importance of reliable domestic fuel alternatives for military and industrial needs, highlighting that local production diminishes dependency on global supply chains.
The company aims to enable military bases to operate independently of external fuel supplies or civilian power infrastructures, thus enhancing energy security.
In support of this, the company is collaborating with the Pentagon to ensure its fuel can power military vehicles without the need for retrofitting. Future plans involve establishing multiple pilot programs with the Department of War.
Furthermore, the Army has commissioned GM Defense, Ford, and BC Customs to create prototypes for a heavier Infantry Squad Vehicle, which will supply enough power for drone-defense and electronic warfare systems.
Oshkosh Defense has introduced the eJLTV, a hybrid-electric tactical vehicle that conserves fuel by shutting down its engine when not in use while maintaining essential systems with an onboard battery. They report noticeable fuel efficiency improvements with this model.
The company is also working with Michigan Technological University to finalize a power kit for an Army truck, reducing the need for frequent fuel deliveries.
In another development, Cummins has observed a rising demand for hybrid and higher-capacity power generation solutions as military operations increasingly require advanced systems. They noted that their generators can utilize renewable diesel, proving versatile for military deployment.
New Use Energy Solutions, based in Arizona, is developing portable battery units to increase sustainability on the battlefield. They stressed the vulnerabilities generators face in conflict zones, highlighting lessons learned from the Ukraine war.
These energy nodes can be quickly charged and used to minimize generator output, thus decreasing detection risk, which is a concern as advancements in drone technology have improved targeting capabilities. The company is designing their units to be manufactured domestically, ensuring that critical components are sourced from within the U.S.
In summary, the U.S. military is making strides in securing its energy needs by fostering domestic production and innovations in fuel technology, ensuring operational resilience in unpredictable environments.
