Rolls-Royce Power Systems and ZF Friedrichshafen AG have been commissioned to develop an advanced hybrid drive system for the future European Main Ground Combat System (MGCS). The development contract has been awarded by the German Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw), marking a significant step in Europe’s efforts to strengthen its next-generation defence capabilities.
The collaboration between the two companies will focus on creating the world’s first parallel-hybrid drive system for heavy military tracked vehicles. Under the agreement, Rolls-Royce Power Systems will act as the general contractor responsible for the main propulsion unit, while ZF will supply an electrified powershift steering transmission designed to enhance mobility, agility and efficiency.
At the core of the MGCS propulsion architecture is a newly developed 10-cylinder engine from the mtu Series 199, engineered to meet the extreme demands of modern combat vehicles. The 10V 199 engine delivers approximately 1,100 kW of mechanical power, contributing the majority of the hybrid powerpack’s total system output of over 1,400 kW.
Designed for heavy-duty military operations, the engine features advanced electronics combined with robust mechanical architecture to withstand harsh battlefield conditions. The system uses a highly durable fuel injection technology capable of operating on multiple fuel types, including low-quality fuels often encountered in operational environments.
The updated 10V configuration is built on a revised platform with optimised combustion characteristics, higher power density and improved thermal efficiency. A hybridised cooling system has also been integrated to support the increased electrical power demands of next-generation combat vehicles.
Rolls-Royce Power Systems stated that the new powerpack design is compact and lightweight while offering improved efficiency and installation flexibility. The Military-Off-The-Shelf (MOTS) development approach used for the Series 199 platform also supports a resilient and scalable European supply chain. Initial powerpack prototypes are expected to undergo testing before the end of the decade, with potential series production beginning in the early 2030s.
Complementing the hybrid powerpack is ZF’s eLSG 5000 electrified powershift steering transmission, developed specifically for heavy tracked armoured vehicles.
The system integrates modern by-wire technologies for driving, braking and steering, while also incorporating energy recuperation capabilities. Its electromechanical superimposed steering system enables continuously variable manoeuvring, significantly improving agility and efficiency during operation.
The transmission also supports boosting and energy recovery, helping optimise power distribution while reducing auxiliary energy consumption. A newly developed high-efficiency fan drive further enhances performance and operating range.
For operators, the result is more precise manoeuvrability, improved responsiveness and simplified vehicle control. Additionally, the integrated generator power can supply high-voltage systems on the vehicle, enabling extended operational capability during scenarios such as silent watch mode.
According to Dr Jörg Stratmann, CEO of Rolls-Royce Power Systems, the propulsion system will serve as a critical technological foundation for Europe’s future defence architecture.
He noted that the hybrid drive concept is designed to support current and future mission requirements while strengthening operational reliability and maintaining industrial value creation within Europe.
Similarly, Andreas Moser, Member of the Board of Management at ZF Friedrichshafen AG, highlighted the project’s significance in advancing modern defence mobility solutions. He emphasised that the electrified powershift transmission will provide the MGCS platform with enhanced responsiveness and mobility.
The Main Ground Combat System (MGCS) is a joint defence initiative between Germany and France aimed at developing a next-generation combat vehicle to replace existing main battle tanks such as the Leopard 2 and Leclerc main battle tanks.
Beyond a single armoured vehicle, MGCS is being designed as a networked combat system, integrating vehicles, weapons systems, command-and-control infrastructure, communication architecture and advanced protection technologies.
The platform is expected to deliver significantly enhanced mobility, survivability and digital integration, enabling European armed forces to meet the operational challenges of future battlefields.
