January 24, 2025: Nickel-zinc developer AEsir Technologies said on January 17 it had agreed an expanded battery manufacturing deal to support the US Navy.

The firm-fixed-price contract was awarded by the BlueForge Alliance, a non-profit defence industrial base group that supports navy projects.

Financial details were not disclosed, but AEsir said the deal would see it increase its production capacity of its advanced 1,100 Ah NiZn battery cell and obtain state-of-the-art equipment as it expands its manufacturing plant in Joplin, Missouri.

AEsir’s technology offers improved high-rate performance and long cycle life for batteries intended for use in subsurface naval applications, the company said.

The company will also undergo a rigorous qualification process to ensure that its large-format NiZn battery cells meet stringent navy requirements.

AEsir CEO Randy Moore said: “This expansion will not only benefit the navy but also position AEsir as an industry leader in advanced NiZn battery solutions.”

Batteries International reported last August that AEsir was partnering Venta Nico to develop and commercialize cutting-edge NiZn batteries for critical infrastructure, 5G telecoms and EV chargers.

Venta Nico, India’s sole nickel producer, was named as the preferred supplier of nickel with its sister company, India’s Hindustan Zinc, supporting the partnership.