In a future war, Army tanks may send live data back to headquarters showing every time they fire a round or burn fuel. Logisticians could then send drones or boats with supplies to the tanks. The Army will test these ideas at Project Convergence this spring. This includes updating logistics for the modern era, allowing for real-time data transfer from tanks to facilitate resupply missions and enhance commanders’ understanding of forces’ readiness.
At Project Convergence, the team will also test heavy cargo drones and autonomous resupply boats. The aim is to deliver supplies to troops without risking pilots’ lives. The Army is working on fielding heavy-lift drones and smaller drones to units by 2030 and 2026, respectively, under an aggressive schedule.
The Army is also exploring using drones for casualty evacuation, similar to practices seen in Ukraine. Additionally, the Army is researching better ways to supply troops with energy, such as using solar panels, hydrogen-powered fuel cells, or small nuclear energy. Despite existing challenges, there is optimism about progress in the power-generation space.