The announcement follows the signing of a memorandum of understanding that also points to potential opportunities for the use of Falck Schmidt composite components and materials in Boeing Integrated Defense Systems (IDS) rotorcraft programs.
'This relationship with Boeing presents the opportunity to expand our proven power solutions to new fuel cell applications, that would offer armed forces significant operational advantages at better cost and with cleaner energy,' says Jan Falck-Schmidt, president/CEO of Falck Schmidt Defence Systems. 'We also look to expand our composite technology used in ground-based applications -which have proven their capability in current military operations, including in Afghanistan -to rotorcraft systems.' 'Falck Schmidt is a key player in the Danish defense industry, providing proven power supply solutions and composite materials to ground forces around the world,' says Tom Bell, vice president of business development for Boeing Military Aircraft, a division of Boeing IDS. 'As they adapt their technologies for aerospace, we see natural links to Boeing's current research and development activities.'
In early 2008 Boeing announced the first flight of a manned, fuel cell powered light aircraft, in tests at Boeing Research & Technology Europe in Spain. That aircraft was powered by PEM fuel cell technology supplied by UK-based Intelligent Energy [FCB, April 2008].