CPS Technologies Corp. (NASDAQ: CPSH) has secured a Phase I Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contract from the U.S. Army, representing the company's third such award in 2025. The $250,000 contract will fund research to develop advanced fiber-reinforced aluminum (FRA) components for military vehicles as part of the Army's ongoing modernization efforts.
The six-month research initiative supports the Army's Hybrid Electric Powertrain, Power, and Propulsion Systems (HEPPS) program, which aims to enhance fuel efficiency and extend operational range of military vehicles without increasing size, weight, or power (SWaP) requirements.
CPS Technologies will apply its specialized net-shape manufacturing techniques to develop FRA components, particularly bearings that can withstand the significant wear caused by cyclic loading in hybrid electric systems. These components are expected to substantially improve durability while reducing mass and enhancing overall system performance.
Strategic Material Innovation for Military Applications
Fiber-reinforced aluminum offers unique properties that make it particularly suitable for military vehicle applications. The lightweight, wear-resistant material was originally developed by Triton Systems of Chelmsford, Massachusetts, and CPS Technologies became the exclusive global licensor of this patented technology in March 2024.
"Our partnership with Triton Systems has positioned us to bring FRA technology to the forefront of real-world applications, and we're thrilled to receive continued support from the U.S. Army's SBIR program," said Brian Mackey, CEO of CPS Technologies. "This contract is an important milestone in our efforts to introduce FRA products into the military sector."
The research will focus specifically on optimizing manufacturability and performance of next-generation FRA components such as bearings and liners that can meet the demanding requirements of military applications.
Technical Advantages of Fiber-Reinforced Aluminum
In hybrid electric systems, components like bearings face significant challenges from the cyclic loading caused by motor actuation and regenerative charging. The FRA material developed by CPS is expected to address these challenges by:
- Significantly reducing wear on critical components
- Extending the operational lifespan of hybrid electric systems
- Decreasing overall mass of vehicle components
- Improving fuel economy and system performance
Dr. Anant Singh, Executive Vice President of Triton Systems, expressed enthusiasm about the rapid progress of the partnership, stating, "This was exactly the strategic intent behind our partnership with CPS, and we are thrilled to see positive momentum towards military and broader market applications develop so quickly."
Broader Implications for Military Vehicle Technology
The development of improved materials for military vehicles aligns with broader Department of Defense initiatives to enhance operational capabilities while reducing logistical burdens. More durable components that require less frequent replacement can significantly impact battlefield readiness and reduce maintenance requirements.
The HEPPS program specifically targets improvements in hybrid electric systems, which represent a growing focus area for military vehicle development. These systems offer potential advantages in fuel efficiency, operational range, and reduced acoustic signatures—all critical factors in modern military operations.
If successful, the Phase I research could lead to Phase II funding for prototype development and eventual integration into next-generation military vehicles. The technology also has potential applications beyond military use, including in commercial electric vehicles, industrial equipment, and other high-wear environments.
CPS Technologies has established itself as a leader in high-performance materials solutions, with products addressing critical needs across various applications including electric trains, wind turbines, hybrid vehicles, Navy ships, and 5G infrastructure. The company's continued innovation in lightweight, high-performance materials positions it well to support the U.S. Army's modernization efforts in the coming years.
