Rapid Fire 2011-04-25: Energy Storage Systems

* Researchers find that helmets with 1/8 inch more foam padding would offer better protection against soldiers’ brain injuries. * DoD issues 27 contracts totaling $191 million under the Multidisciplinary University Research Initiative program for academic research projects [PDF] with potential military applications. * DARPA is looking for industry help in developing “flexible/robust energy storage systems” that can use renewable energy sources for forward operating bases. * Up to $163 million [PDF] to General Dynamics for demilitarization of 8 munitions families including high explosive bombs, improved conventional munitions, fuzes, Explosive D bombs and ammunition ranging for 25mm to 106mm calibers at the US Army Contracting Command in Rock Island, IL. * Japan is seeking stronger military ties with the US, says Japanese Defense Minister Toshimi Kitazawa. * AME conducts first test flight of Fury 1500 STUAS powered by a heavy-fuel engine at the Fort Hunter Liggett range on California’s central coast. * Calibre gets contract worth up to $45 million contract to provide IT and program management support services to the Army National Guard’s Logistics and the Aviation and Safety Divisions. * DoD wants to speed adoption of mobile and and cloud IT technologies, says Chief Information Officer Teri Takai.