What type of battery is used in the BCU?

• A. Lead-acid battery.
• B. Nickel-cadmium battery.
• C. Lithium iron disulfide battery.
• D. Lithium-ion battery.

Answer: (C)

The BCU needs a compact, lightweight, reliable power source that can endure field conditions and long storage without requiring complex maintenance. Lithium iron disulfide cells provide a high energy density in a small package, are non-rechargeable (which simplifies logistics and safety in a combat environment), and maintain stable voltage across a wide temperature range, making them ideal for single-use power in a missile component. Lead-acid would add unnecessary weight and require charging, nickel-cadmium brings memory effects and lower energy density, and lithium-ion, while high-energy, is rechargeable and carries safety concerns in battlefield handling and storage. For these reasons, lithium iron disulfide is the best choice for powering the BCU.