The US Army wants machines that can pull drinking water from the air for fights far from reliable supply lines
The Army awarded a nearly $50 million contract for machines that turn humid air into drinking water for troops.
The US Army has awarded a nearly $50 million contract to Florida-based Genesis Systems for the development, testing, and procurement of WaterCube Atmospheric Water Generation systems. These large machines function as oversized dehumidifiers, converting air into drinking water for soldiers operating in remote areas where traditional water resupply may be challenging or hazardous.
The largest WaterCube, housed in a 20-foot shipping container, produces roughly 1,000 gallons of water per day under humid conditions. These generators can be operated remotely and have already been prepositioned for emergency relief purposes, such as assisting local hospitals after Hurricane Milton knocked out utility services.
Smaller versions, starting at $6,500, offer a compact alternative that can be powered by solar energy and do not require an internet connection, making them suitable for individuals seeking independent water sources at home or off the grid. While atmospheric water generation eliminates the need to transport water by truck or aircraft, the systems still necessitate substantial power and maintenance.
The Army has been exploring new methods to produce water on-site for troops in contested environments as part of a broader initiative to sustain personnel in combat zones where supply lines may be vulnerable. In addition to WaterCube, the Army has been researching waste-heat utilization with another company, AirJoule. Atmospheric water generators could also potentially address water scarcity issues in arid regions, including parts of the western United States, although they perform optimally in humid climates.
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