BAE Systems is developing electric energy storage systems to support Airbus’ plans to introduce so-called micro-hybridization technology on commercial airliners. Under an agreement announced on January 8, the aerospace groups will advance work through which electric propulsion can be available to supplement engines during various phases of flight.

Engineers at BAE Systems’ facility in upstate New York have begun to develop and test energy storage packs that will offer 200 kilowatt-hour energy capacity to support megawatt-class hybrid propulsion systems. The company's Electronic Systems business unit is expected to deliver hardware to Airbus by 2026 and will support system integration and laboratory tests.

BAE Systems has been working to enter the electric aviation sector for several years, with projects including development of the battery system for Heart Aerospace’s ES-30 hybrid-electric regional airliner. According to the company, its plans for a family of energy storage systems is intended to deliver energy density of up to 300 watt hours per kilogram using high volume standard format cells.

“Our collaboration with Airbus will help future developments in air travel, advancing sustainable aviation with leading edge energy management solutions,” said Ehtisham Siddiqui, the group’s vice president and general manager of Controls and Avionics Solutions. “BAE Systems’ experience in flight-critical systems and vehicle electrification equips us to meet aerospace’s unique needs, allowing us to optimize performance, work towards more responsible aircraft operations, and address safe electric flight.”

Airbus’ objective is to find ways that batteries can play what the European aerospace group’s head of electrification, Karim Mokaddem, refers to as “a supporting role” until such time as they can deliver sufficient energy density to act as the main propulsion system for larger aircraft. “So instead of relying on thermal engines to completely power the aircraft we could use small batteries to provide electrical power for some on-board systems, as well as relieve the engine in certain operations,” he explained in a blog post.

In the first instance, micro-hybridization could see batteries powering non-propulsive functions, such as air conditioning and cabin pressurization, as well as supporting communications systems, flight controls and landing gear. In some instances, electrical power sources could be used in place of current auxiliary power units for ground operations, including taxiing.

Delta Signs Up For Sustainability Partnership

In other work related to making air transport more environmentally sustainable, Delta Air Lines this month launched a partnership with the Airbus UpNext new technology hub. The carrier’s Sustainable Skies Lab will seek ways to work with Airbus innovation engineers. Delta will also provide aircraft for the next round of flight trials in Airbus’ Fello’fly program exploring wake energy retrieval techniques that could cut fuel consumption by flying in formations inspired by migrating geese. Airbus has agreed to participate in the Minnesota Sustainable Aviation Fuel hub.