Under the terms of a teaming agreement between the two companies, Com Dev will use AEA Technology's lithium-ion expertise to manufacture space-qualified batteries that will power a satellite's electronics and control systems when its solar panels are eclipsed.

"AEA Technology's cell and battery design expertise, coupled with our space heritage and high-volume space production capability, will result in a world class product," Alan Winter, president of Com Dev Space Group, noted. "Our goal is to become the leading supplier of batteries for space applications. We hope to garner a significant portion of this $50-million market within the next three to five years."

Com Devand AEA Technology's unique lithium-ion 'small cell' approach to battery design provides significant mass and volume savings, by using a number of small cells rather than a single large cell. This approach can increase a satellite system's profitability by allowing more space for revenue-producing communications channels.

By using commercial off-the shelf cells, Com Dev and AEA Technology are the first to offer the high reliability and proven performance history of a mature cell design. In addition, unlike the large cell approach, Com Dev and AEA Technology's design requires virtually no electronics to monitor the cell's power flow.

AEA Technology has extensive experience in the design and development of advanced battery systems. The company holds key patents for lithium-ion technology which it licences to most of the world's major battery manufacturers.

A testament to its leadership in battery technology, AEA Technology has been awarded five flight contracts for lithium-ion batteries -- more than any other company -- including the STRV-2, Rosetta, and Mars Express programs.

Lithium-ion batteries are 30% smaller and 35% lighter than nickel cadmium batteries, rendering them ideal for use in the increasingly small and sophisticated range of electronic equipment. Lithium-ion batteries are also more environmentally friendly because they do not contain cadmium, a toxic metal.

AEA Technology plc, a science and engineering services company, is an international supplier of specialist cells, batteries and battery technology.

Com Dev is a Canadian-based technology company and employs more than 1,300 people in facilities in Ontario, New Brunswick, the United States, the United Kingdom and China.