Custom Power & Volklec - UK Defence Collaboration

WITH END-TO-END BATTERY SOLUTIONS

Solid State plc (AIM: SOLI), the specialist value added component supplier and design-in manufacturer of computing, power, and communications products, announces that Custom Power, its customised battery and power systems division, has joined forces with Volklec, the UK's only independent battery manufacturer, to deliver a sovereign, end-to-end energy solution for the UK defence sector.

This strategic partnership creates a fully integrated capability, from cell development through to battery pack design, manufacture, delivery and support, tailored to meet the rigorous demands of defence Prime providers. At its core, Custom Power's bespoke battery management systems and integration solutions are paired with Volklec's proven 21700 lithium-ion cell technology to ensure consistent, high-performance energy delivery in the most challenging operational environments.

Highlights of the collaboration include:

• Strategic UK Capability: The partnership creates a sovereign solution for defence providers - from cell development through to battery pack design, manufacture and through life support.
• Proven Technology Meets Custom Innovation: Combines Volklec's field-tested 21700 lithium-ion cells with Custom Power's customised battery management systems and experience in developing rugged enclosures to meet the most demanding defence applications.
• Built for Mission Success: Designed to deliver consistent performance in the toughest conditions, mission after mission.
• Collaboration Through MAKE UK Defence: This high-impact alliance was facilitated via MAKE UK Defence, strengthening sector connectivity and capability.
• Supporting Sovereign Supply Chains: Reinforces UK industrial resilience by advancing domestic energy tech and reducing reliance on foreign suppliers. Aligning to a key aspect of the 2025 Strategic Defence Review.

Volklec's energy cells offer a compelling combination of performance, reliability, and strategic value for defence applications. With balanced energy and power density, the cylindrical 21700 format delivers mechanical robustness and proven thermal management which is ideal for demanding operational environments.

Designed and manufactured in the UK, they reinforce sovereign supply chain resilience and align with the Ministry of Defence's priorities for domestic capability. Custom Power and Volklec's commitment to increasing local content also supports the UK Government's real, evolving, and multi-faceted movement within UK defence policy for Net Zero. Engineered for reliability, the energy cells operate across a wide temperature range, while their low internal resistance improves thermal control and reduces cooling costs, ensuring consistent performance regardless of the mission.

The collaboration between Custom Power and Volklec was facilitated through MAKE UK Defence, a national initiative that strengthens connectivity and capability across the UK's defence supply chain. By advancing domestic energy technology and reducing reliance on international suppliers, the partnership reinforces the UK's industrial resilience and supports the development of sovereign supply chains.

Commenting on the collaboration, Dave Crossman, Global VP and General Manager at Custom Power, said:

"Combining Volklec's proven cell technology with our custom-designed battery systems allows us to meet the exacting standards of defence clients. This partnership is a powerful example of UK innovation delivering strategic advantage."

Phil Popham, Executive Director at Volklec, added:

"Built for mission success, this alliance is about more than technology - it's about trust, resilience, and readiness.

"Our cells are engineered for flexibility and can be configured into diverse pack formats, supporting a wide range of platforms from portable handheld communications devices to autonomous vehicles and robotics. Together with Custom Power, we're enabling defence organisations to operate with confidence, mission after mission."

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About Custom Power:

Custom Power is a specialist manufacturer of custom-built lithium battery packs, COTS battery modules, portable power and energy storage systems. With state-of-the-art facilities in the UK and USA, and using a wide range of chemistry technologies, it provides highly reliable solutions for use in demanding environments within critical industries such as medical, aerospace, defence, and robotics.

About Volklec:

Volklec is a new battery manufacturing business based in the UK. It is a disruptor in battery manufacturing, established to supply the high value manufacturing sector, in particular specialist applications within defence, automotive, aerospace, marine and med-tech.

Volklec has a unique and fast to market approach with a low-risk design and delivery strategy. It is working with a long-established Chinese partner to bring proven technology to the UK and enable technology and manufacturing knowledge transfer to mobilise battery manufacturing in the UK.