FED:Solar to power soldiers in combat

AAP General News (Australia)
08-12-2011
FED:Solar to power soldiers in combat

Australian soldiers could soon be using the sun to power their devices in the field.

Wearable lightweight solar panels developed by the Australian National University convert
light directly into electricity via SLIVER solar cell technology.

The project's chief investigator Professor ANDREW BLAKERS says the new sliver cells
can be bent, meaning soldiers can roll them up and carry them long distances and unfurl
them when needed.

They can also be worn on a soldier's helmet, or on their front or back.

Army strategist, Major General JOHN CALIGARI says this would mean soldiers need to
carry fewer traditional batteries.

AAP RTV el/wz/psm/

KEYWORD: SOLAR (CANBERRA)

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