Put Expeditionary Water Treatment Capabilities Ahead of Advancements

摘要

In an article published in the September-October 2018 issue of Army Sustainment, Maj. Jamie Schwandt touts graphene as the key to the Army's ability to tap into the world's saltwater resources. While Maj. Schwandt is correct that the desalination of water using reverse osmosis (RO) is very energy intensive and expensive, the current RO capability affords the Army unmatched reach and endurance. By sharing ideas, we, as a force, can evolve and maintain our advantage. But it is imperative to remember that it takes time to develop new technology and often even longer to replace existing systems. For now, the Army should explore a renewed effort on water treatment and emphasize being expeditionary using its current capabilities.