The US Army wants machines that can pull drinking water from the air for fights far from reliable supply lines
The US Army has awarded a $50 million contract to Genesis Systems for atmospheric water generators that extract drinking water from the air. This technology aims to reduce logistical burdens in remote or dangerous combat zones.
Why it matters
Innovative water-generation technology could significantly improve military logistics and sustainability in austere environments.
A US Army soldier fills up a portable water tank at Cidra, Puerto Rico, Aug. 18, 2024. Spc. Felix Ortiz Rivera/US Army The US Army has awarded a contract worth up to $50 million for water-from-air systems. Atmospheric water generators could reduce the need to truck water into dangerous areas. The large machines, however, need ample power and work best in humid climates. The US Army awarded a nearly $50 million contract for machines that act as giant dehumidifiers, turning air into drinking water for service members who may be operating in remote locations where conventional water resupply could be difficult or dangerous. An announcement posted to the Pentagon's website this month said Florida-based Genesis Systems had been chosen for research, development, testing, and procurement of WaterCube Atmospheric Water Generation systems "to provide scalable, on-site potable water production in austere and contested environments."
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