MGCS tank: Rolls-Royce & ZF develop hybrid drive

Hybrid on tracks ZF and Rolls-Royce Develop Drive System for Battle Tanks

2026-03-17 Source: dpa | Translated by AI 1 min Reading Time

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The large engine manufacturer Rolls-Royce Power Systems and the struggling automotive supplier ZF are developing the drive system for the first German-French battle tank system.

A German-French battle tank project was approved some time ago (symbol image). But a modern drive system is also needed for it. This is now being developed by Rolls-Royce Power Systems and ZF in the coming years...(Image: Rheinmetall) — A German-French battle tank project was approved some time ago (symbol image). But a modern drive system is also needed for it. This is now being developed by Rolls-Royce Power Systems and ZF in the coming years...
(Image: Rheinmetall)

The Federal Office for Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology, and In-Service Support ("BAAINBw") has now commissioned Rolls-Royce Power Systems to develop the propulsion system for the tank development debut. ZF from Friedrichshafen (Germany) is contributing as a partner with an electrified steering transmission. Initially, a so-called parallel-hybrid drive for heavy military tracked vehicles is to be developed—referred to as a powerpack. It is expected to achieve a system output of over 1,400 kilowatts. With this energy, a small village could be supplied with electricity. The exact scope of the defence deal is not yet known.

Replacement for "Leo 2" and Leclerc

Rolls-Royce Power Systems will thus take on the role of general contractor for the main drive. The new engine will be designed for high load changes, naturally meeting military requirements, and addressing the increasing electrical energy needs of modern combat vehicles. The German-French main battle tank system, currently known under the acronym MGCS (Main Ground Combat System), is set to eventually replace the German Leopard 2 and the French Leclerc. According to the companies, initial prototypes of the drive system could be tested before the end of the 2020s. A possible series production could then be conceivable at the beginning of the 2030s.

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