Rolls-Royce to lead powertrain development for MGCS in important step for the programme
Rolls-Royce has been contracted for the MGCS programme. (Image: Rolls-Royce)
Rolls-Royce Power Systems has been selected as general contractor to develop the drive system for the Main Ground Combat System (MGCS), a major step for the Franco-German programme which has been stalled by industrial disagreements and distant timelines.
The significant contract award would see Rolls-Royce, formerly Motoren und Turbinen-Union (MTU), couple its 1,400+kW 10-cylinder (10V) MTU 199 engine with ZF’s eLSG 5000 electrified powershift steering transmission.
Germany’s Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) placed the contract which, according to Rolls-Royce, will see “the world’s first parallel-hybrid drive for heavy military tracked vehicles.”
The
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Land Warfare
-
Greece opts for PULS long-range artillery as demand for capability surges
Greece’s selection of PULS makes it the sixth European country to choose the system and follows Sweden’s plan to buy HIMARS and Norway’s selection of Chunmoo artillery systems. The diverse choices for a similar capability highlight demand and a desire for European industrial capacity.
-
Leopard MBT: Alpha beast gets a reboot (updated 2026)
Leopard MBTs are German-made main battle tanks that have been in service since the Cold War and have undergone several upgrades to remain competitive in modern warfare. This article traces the history and development of the Leopard 1 and 2 as well as its variants, operational service and future prospects.
-
Predicted air defence spending boom opens doors to Indian industry
Recent conflicts have created a surge in interceptor demand worldwide while exposing potential supply chain challenges, positioning India as a cost-effective partner and scalable supplier.