AUKUS submarines could switch to nickel-zinc batteries for more power

Australian battery manufacturer PMB Defense Engineering has signed a contract with UK-based BAE Systems to explore integrating PMB’s nickel-zinc battery technology into the new nuclear-powered SSN-AUKUS submarines being jointly developed by the UK, Australia, and the US under the AUKUS security partnership. This follows PMB’s six-year collaboration with the UK Ministry of Defense and the Submarine Delivery Agency to qualify nickel-zinc batteries as a replacement for traditional lead-acid systems on Astute-class submarines. The nickel-zinc batteries offer about twice the energy capacity of lead-acid batteries, providing greater energy density, reliability, and lower maintenance—key advantages for the long-endurance and stealth missions of nuclear submarines. The contract, valued at over A$34 million (approximately USD 22 million), is expected to boost Australian defense industry participation and create new jobs in South Australia, with PMB already expanding its workforce. The SSN-AUKUS submarines will incorporate technology from all three