Collins making generators for U.S. Army

Collins Aerospace, an RTX business, has been awarded a $24 million contract for production and delivery of electric generators with containers to the U.S. Army’s Anniston Depot in Alabama.

The Collins’ generators deliver 50 percent more onboard power to the M1A2 Main Battle Tank, enhancing the tanks’ survivability and reliability, Collins said in a news release.

“Across our business, we are leveraging electric power, from commercial aerospace to military platforms, to support the evolving needs of our customers,” said Russell Andrey, program manager for Collins Aerospace.

“To date, Collins has delivered 800 electric generators, in support of the SEPv3 program, supplying critical power, diagnostics and predictive maintenance support on the ground,” he said.

The new generators allow the addition of advanced systems, such as laser warning receivers and radio jamming capabilities, and enhances digital capabilities, the company said.

The generators also use advanced magnetics and active load management to deliver “100 percent rated power” within the tank’s operating range.

The Collins-designed generators fit in the same space as the legacy system without requiring major changes to the tanks or their existing electrical systems.

Collins Aerospace is the largest employer in Cedar Rapids, with nearly 7,000 of its 9,000 Iowa employees based in the city.