JULY 1, 2025 – United States Naval Research Laboratory, based in Washington, D.C., demonstrated the potential of hydrogen power to enhance warfighter capabilities at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center, Twentynine Palms, California, May 20, 2025.
The NRL is actively researching and analyzing innovative applications of hydrogen for both Marines and Sailors, focusing on improving the efficiency and extending the operational limits of unmanned aircraft and ground systems. The demonstration showcased how hydrogen gas can significantly expand the capabilities of unmanned aircraft systems.
“We have found that outfitting UAS systems with hydrogen fuel cells allowed us to operate those systems significantly longer than current UAS’,” said U.S. Marine Corps Capt. Joshua Ashley, a science and technology analyst with the Expeditionary Energy Office, Capabilities Development Directorate. “This is beneficial because we are trying to maintain intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities in the air, not only for longer but to increase our range.”
According to Ashley, hydrogen technology offers a potential strategic advantage against adversarial forces. Utilizing hydrogen power for small ground systems also reduces both thermal and audible signatures, enhancing a warfighter’s ability to operate undetected under enemy observation.
During the demonstration, Ashley presented an Ultra-Light Tactical Vehicle outfitted with enhanced hydrogen storage and a hydrogen fuel cell, capable of exporting 10 kilowatts of power – sufficient to operate high-energy-demand weapon systems.
Testing these systems at MCAGCC’s challenging environment – characterized by high temperatures and arid conditions – rigorously assesses their performance limits.
“Fuel cell technology has come a long way since the 1980s,” said Justin McRoberts, program manager for the manufacturing and technology program, The Office of the Secretary of Defense. “We have been able to figure out how to manufacture these capabilities and provide them in the United States which is an enormous improvement from where we were at.”
The NRL remains focused on furthering this technology, leveraging sponsor-funded research projects to ensure the continued success of the U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps and maintain a competitive edge in future conflicts.
Story by Lance Cpl. Jozef Majewski
Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center