The U.S. Army and Air Force are partnering with Florida-based technology firm Genesis Systems to develop a portable device that extracts drinkable water directly from the atmosphere, a critical innovation aimed at addressing global water scarcity and supporting remote military operations.
The technology, known as the WaterCube WC-10, is a transportable atmospheric water generator designed to produce up to 10 gallons of potable water per day using renewable energy. The device is currently undergoing field testing in Guam and has been developed in collaboration with Army and Air Force research laboratories.
“There are 37 quadrillion tons of water in the atmosphere,” said David Stuckenberg, chief operating officer of Genesis Systems, during the National Defense Industrial Association’s Pacific Operational Science and Technology Conference in March. “If we harvest that water, it’s naturally replenished within nine minutes to nine days. In contrast, groundwater can take 90 to 900 years to restore.”
Stuckenberg emphasized the importance of generating water at the point of need, especially in dispersed environments such as humanitarian missions or military deployments, where transporting water can be logistically challenging and resource-intensive.
The WaterCube comes in two models: the WC-10 IoT, which offers app-based, real-time monitoring through digital connectivity, and a non-IoT version designed for off-grid environments where digital infrastructure may not be available.
According to the company, the system not only eliminates pollution but also promotes “sustainable water independence.” Its compact and ruggedized design allows for flexible deployment in challenging terrains, aligning with the military’s need for reliable, self-sufficient water sources.
“To be able to send that downrange in a ruggedized form factor with soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines who need it is an extraordinary and rewarding opportunity,” Stuckenberg said.
As part of its ongoing development, Genesis Systems was recently awarded a $2 million contract by the Army Research Laboratory. The funding will support further research into enhancing the WaterCube’s transportability, ensuring it can meet the demands of modern military logistics and operations.
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