US Navy tests stealthy hydrogen tech delivering more energy than battery

The U.S. Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) has developed and prototyped a portable hydrogen fuel cell device called Hydrogen Small Unit Power (H-SUP) that delivers more energy per weight than traditional batteries. Offering up to 1.2 kW of continuous power in a ruggedized, low-signature package, H-SUP enhances operational range, reduces thermal and audible signatures, and lowers maintenance needs. This technology aims to increase the lethality and autonomy of small Marine units while decreasing logistical sustainment requirements, supporting distributed operations and extending mission range. H-SUP has undergone field testing with Marines at Camp Lejeune in 2022 and Marine Corps Air Station Yuma in 2025, with warfighter feedback playing a key role in refining the system and accelerating acquisition. Originally developed for unmanned vehicles, the hydrogen fuel cell technology has also been integrated into the Naval Air Warfare Center’s H2 Stalker program, improving range and endurance of unmanned aerial vehicles. The NRL