The European Defence Agency (EDA) has launched a new research project to monitor and predict the health of batteries in aircraft, which is known as Prognostic Health Management (PHM). Led by Italy and involving Belgium, Greece, the Netherlands, and Germany, this three-year project aims to innovate aircraft power systems, with a focus on hybrid-electric aircraft and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) for defence. The EDA project kicked off on 4 February 2025 and focuses on a type of rechargeable battery used in aircraft called structural Li-Ion/Po batteries.
Unlike traditional batteries, structural batteries not only store energy but also help support the structure of the aircraft, which can reduce the overall weight. This is especially important for aircraft, as every kilogram saved helps improve fuel efficiency and performance. By developing advanced systems to monitor the health of these batteries, the project aims to ensure they last longer and perform reliably. These systems will help predict how long the batteries and the materials that make up the aircraft can be safely used, reducing the risk of failure and increasing the safety of flights, especially for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) that are used in defence operations. The project is known as BATTAGE, combining BATT from batteries, and AGE, referring to the battery’s lifetime.
Project objectives: from design to testing
- Sensor network and battery management system design, with the creation of a multifunctional, advanced battery management system that meets structural battery construction standards.
- Diagnostic and prognostic algorithm implementation, with the development of algorithms for early anomaly detection, enhancing safety and operational efficiency of aircraft.
- Experimental validation, with laboratory testing on structural batteries and UAV components under realistic operational conditions to evaluate durability and performance.
- Scaling PHM systems and extending methodologies from testing to full UAV component-level validation.
These efforts bring together Member States’ expertise and testing facilities, reducing financial burdens and aiming to accelerate innovation. The project seeks to lay the foundation for research applicable to both civil aeronautics and the automotive industry, raising the possibility of a broad application of the technologies developed. Conducted under the framework of the EDA’s CapTech Aerial Systems, BATTAGE reinforces the European Union’s commitment to advancing defence and aeronautical technologies, while promoting collaboration between Member States. BATTAGE meets with European goals in defence and aeronautics to enhance air-domain capabilities across several areas, including: Air combat, supporting armed Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS); Airborne command and control (C2): Multi-Mission/Reconfigurable UAV systems; and Air Transport with tactical cargo UAVs for defence. The project will aim for a Technology Readiness Level of up to five, meaning that PHM technology is safe for environments where it might be potentially deployed.
A European consortium
The BATTAGE project brings together a consortium of leading institutions from five European countries:
- Italy: Politecnico di Milano (POLIMI), National Research Council (CNR)
- Belgium: Centre de Recherche en Aéronautique (CENAERO)
- Germany: German Aerospace Center (DLR)
- Greece: University of Patras (UPATRAS)
- The Netherlands: Netherlands Aerospace Centre (NLR), Tulip Tech (TULIP)
EDA’s broader role
Founded in 2004, the Agency helps foster defence cooperation across Europe. It serves as the central hub for EU countries aiming to develop their defence capabilities together. EDA’s activities span from harmonising requirements and developing operational capabilities to research, technology, innovation, training, and supporting Common Security and Defence Policy operations. The agency also works closely with the European defence industry to strengthen Europe’s technological and industrial base.