The companies will jointly develop what they describe as the world’s first parallel-hybrid drive system for heavy tracked military vehicles. The propulsion package is intended to support the next generation of European combat vehicles designed to replace existing main battle tanks.
Under the programme, Rolls-Royce Power Systems will act as general contractor for the MGCS powerpack. The company will deliver a system producing more than 1,400 kilowatts of power, centred on its new 10V 199 mtu engine.
ZF will develop an electrified powershift steering transmission known as the eLSG 5000. The system integrates drive, braking and steering functions through by-wire technologies while enabling energy recovery and improved vehicle manoeuvrability.
Dr Jörg Stratmann, Chief Executive Officer of Rolls-Royce Power Systems AG, said the propulsion system is intended to strengthen Europe’s long-term defence capabilities. “Europe needs a strong and reliable defence architecture to secure its defence capabilities in the long-term.”
He added that the hybrid powerpack is designed to meet both present and future operational requirements. “Our propulsion system is a robust and powerful building block for this, designed for current and future mission profiles.”
Stratmann also highlighted the importance of strengthening European industrial capacity. “It strengthens the operational capabilities of European armed forces, increases operational reliability and, at the same time, helps to anchor technological expertise and industrial value creation in Europe in the long-term.”
ZF Board of Management member Andreas Moser said the programme reflects broader European investment in defence technology. “With the Main Ground Combat System, the European partner nations are investing in modern defense technology and also in the long-term stability and ability to act of a defensive democracy in Europe.”
He emphasised the role of ZF’s transmission technology in enhancing vehicle mobility. “We are proud to make an important contribution to a compact and powerful drive module with an innovative, electrified powershift transmission to give the vehicles the necessary mobility and responsiveness.”
At the centre of the propulsion system is the newly developed 10-cylinder engine from the mtu Series 199. The engine delivers approximately 1,100 kilowatts of mechanical output and forms the primary power source within the hybrid system.
The engine has been designed to withstand demanding operational conditions and frequent load changes typical of military vehicles. It is also capable of operating with multiple fuel types, including lower-quality fuels, using a robust injection system.
The updated 10V configuration features optimised combustion, improved thermal efficiency and higher power density. Its cooling system also allows additional capacity to support the increasing electrical power requirements of future combat platforms.
Rolls-Royce said the Military-Off-The-Shelf approach used for the Series 199 platform helps ensure a resilient and scalable supply chain. The engine family already has a strong operational record, with more than 4,500 units deployed worldwide.
ZF’s eLSG 5000 electrified transmission introduces a continuously variable steering concept for tracked armoured vehicles. The integrated system improves agility while also enabling energy recuperation and boosting capabilities.
The transmission also supports the operation of high-voltage onboard systems through its integrated generator capacity. This capability can extend operational endurance, including during silent watch operations.
The Main Ground Combat System is a joint European defence project led by Germany and France. The programme aims to replace the Leopard 2 and Leclerc main battle tanks with a next-generation combat platform.
MGCS is being developed as an integrated system network combining vehicles, weapons, command-and-control systems and communication architecture. The future platform is intended to deliver improved mobility, survivability and digital integration for modern battlefield operations.
