Water at the Point of Need

The U.S. Army is seeking development proposals for a portable, lightweight system to produce potable water from various sources, including salt and brackish water, aimed at sustaining small Security Forces Assistance Brigade (SFAB) teams in austere environments. The system should effectively meet the daily drinking water needs of up to 12 Soldiers by producing 50 gallons per hour while weighing no more than 100 pounds. It must operate utilizing onboard vehicle power and allow for quick setup and mobility. The proposal is structured into two phases: Phase I includes conceptual development and feasibility analysis with a budget of up to $250,000, while Phase II focuses on prototype development and evaluation to ensure Army performance standards are met. Successful technology may have broader applications, including disaster relief, space missions, agriculture, remote region support, and industrial water treatment. The initiative ultimately aims to ease logistics for military operations and enhance water sustainability capabilities.