News Article

Iris Technology Awarded $7.8 Million Order from US Marine Corps for Portable Solar Power
Date: Mar 28, 2013
Source: Company Data

Featured firm in this article: Iris Technology Corporation of Irvine, CA



IRVINE, Calif. -- March 28, 2013 -- Iris Technology Corporation, a Southern California-based defense contractor specializing in tactical power systems and spacecraft hardware, has been awarded a $7.8 million order under a previously awarded contract from Marine Corps Systems Command. The order is for the procurement of 1,563 Solar Power Adapters -- Generation II (SPA II) in support of the program manager, Expeditionary Power Systems.

SPA II is a family of mobile solar power and power distribution products for tactical and remote environments. The StarPower™controller at the heart of SPA II receives power from one or more solar panels, a variety of batteries, or vehicles, and allows the user to charge batteries and distribute power to tactical equipment. The 400 W power handling capability of the StarPower module enables usage ranging from man-portable backpack kits to combat outpost electronics suites.

SPA II is the next generation version of the highly successful Iris Technology Solar Portable Alternative Communications Energy System (SPACES). SPACES has been proven to be highly effective, with more than 2,000 fielded.

“We have made major technological advancements in solar harvesting, battery charging, and power management in this next generation StarPower controller,” said Iris Technology Chief Technology Officer Dr. Carl Kirkconnell. “Marines will be able to carry fewer batteries for the same missions, increasing their mobility, effectiveness, and ultimately keeping them safer in the fight. We are honored to be able to bring this mission-critical capability to the U.S. Marine Corps.”

About Iris Technology
Founded in 1986, Iris Technology is the premier integrator of reliable tactical power systems for the military. Iris Technology also supports commercial and strategic space operations with electronics and electro-optic system components. Iris has delivered more than 25,000 products to destinations worldwide, and is enjoying unprecedented growth and demand for its products and services.