The cells are packaged within crates and end caps including an upper end cap 22b and a lower end cap 22c. The end caps contain explosive debris from ejecting out of the top or bottom of the cells. Additionally, protective panels or plates 22p serve to protect adjacent battery modules, other equipment and personnel from cell malfunction such as explosive thermal events. The panels further serve as baffles to direct air flow around the cells. When plugged into the rack, the rear panel of the battery module is placed in contact with a heat exchanger. Since there are no rear or hidden connections, the battery modules can be installed and removed without tools, although manually operated latches or locking arms may be provided adjacent the front panel to prevent unintended dislodging. The heat exchanger is mounted to a cold plate. The laser weapon may include a cold plate within the laser support structure. The heat exchanger may extend across one or more battery bays.

The third exterior wall 48 functions as a conductive panel which is placed adjacent a cold plate 50 as shown in FIG. 6. The internal volume of the battery module is in communication with the internal volume of the heat exchanger, with the internal volumes sealed against leakage into the room where personnel are present. The heat exchanger is cooled by having its rear conductive panel in thermal contact with the cold plate. The rear conductive panel and heatsink fins are made from metal. Cooling the rear conductive panel also cools the heatsink fins, since the fins are mounted directly on the inside of the rear conductive panel.