To provide the high power-to-weight ratio required for the next generation of electronics-dependent mobile forces, Foster-Miller is developing a mesoscopic (~1 kW) steam engine capable of operating on diesel or military JP-8 fuels. "Disposable" batteries, which generally fill this need today, are a logistical and environmental problem. As the demands for soldier electric power continue to increase with the development of advanced systems, batteries are becoming an increasingly less viable option. A high-performance meso-scale heat engine running on commonly available fuel could meet the electric power requirements for the anticipated military systems.

Today's materials and controls allow the full potential of small steam engines to be realized. These new technologies have the potential to make practical a revolutionary steam engine concept which can significantly exceed the power density of any prior steam systems by running at higher cycle temperatures and pressures than  typical steam engines. These advances, in combination with the other desirable steam engine attributes such as low noise, multi-fuel tolerance, and clean exhaust, promise a viable, near-term solution for increased soldier electrical power requirements.

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