“We cannot choose between either green or strong armed forces, we need strong and green at the same time”, said NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg during a speech in 2021. The second part of our whitepaper entitled “What You Need to Know about Green Defense” sheds light on the role climate change plays in Europe’s defense policy and which green defense technologies our armed forces are already relying on. An exclusive excerpt is available here:
The Green Transformation of the German Armed Forces
To achieve a climate-neutral government by 2030 and a climate-neutral German Armed Forces by 2045, Germany has launched a series of climate action initiatives. Despite relatively low carbon emissions per capita within the German Armed Forces compared to other countries, the need for a sustainable transformation is obvious, especially in light of the geopolitical tensions caused by the Ukraine conflict.
Germany’s Federal Ministry of Defense has made sustainability an integral part of its operational and structural planning. This is reflected in the German Armed Forces’ fifth sustainability report. A central aspect of the transformation is the integration of environmental protection measures in all areas and the inclusion of climate issues in security policy considerations.
As part of the “Green Barracks” project, the German Armed Forces are experimenting with renewable energies and alternative heating systems such as heat pumps and district heating in order to reduce their carbon footprint. The “Infrastructure” expert group is supporting these efforts by focusing on improving energy efficiency and selfsufficiency, including the electrical operation of military properties.
The German Armed Forces are also striving to replace fossil fuels with renewable alternatives in the area of mobility, both for use at home and on foreign missions. A “Mobility” expert group set up by the ministry identified areas of action back in 2019, including the development of an integral system architecture and research into synthetic fuels.
One aim is to increasingly supplement the energy supply of the deployment infrastructure, which to date has mainly been provided by fuel-powered generators, with renewable energy sources such as solar and wind energy. Changes in user behavior and technological innovations are also part of the strategy to reduce the consumption of fossil fuels. These efforts serve both to mitigate climate change and to ensure operational sustainability, whereby the mission requirements of the German Armed Forces are to take priority.
Total Emissions by Sector
In addition to the German Armed Forces’ properties at home and abroad, military mobility is a significant factor in overall emissions. The German Armed Forces’ sustainability report describes the operational profile as being characterized by energy-dense fuels, whereby the potential use of alternative drive systems under current military requirements remains limited. Direct electrification and gaseous energy sources such as hydrogen have been ruled out due to the high energy density required by the military. E-fuels – liquid, synthetic fuels from sustainable sources – are being considered as a potential alternative to fossil fuels. The production of e-fuels is still in its infancy, however, and requires significant investment and consumes a great deal of electrical energy. Furthermore, it is already foreseeable today that civil aviation, in particular, will be directly competing for every liter of production capacity for green e-fuels in the short term.
German Armed Forces’ Projects
- Use of renewable energy: The German Armed Forces operate several solar energy projects, such as the solar array on the grounds of the University of the German Armed Forces in Munich, which is one of the largest photovoltaic installations in Bavaria.
- Hybrid and electric vehicles in logistics: The German Armed Forces are increasingly integrating electric and hybrid vehicles into their non-tactical fleets in order to reduce carbon emissions and improve operational efficiency.
- Use of microgrid technologies: As part of the Smart Energy Networks initiative, which is part of the German Armed Forces’ armaments innovation program, research is being conducted into the use of microgrids to optimize the self-sufficient and efficient supply of energy during foreign missions.
- Energy efficiency in buildings and infrastructure: The German Armed Forces are aiming to reduce their buildings’ energy requirements through energyefficient modernization measures such as improved insulation, energy-efficient heating and cooling systems, and lighting.
- Improved waste management and recycling: The German Armed Forces are implementing concepts to optimize waste separation and recycling, such as the waste separation system at the Baumholder military training area, as part of their environmental management activities.
- Development of biofuels and alternative fuels: In order to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and cut carbon emissions, the German Armed Forces are funding research projects into the use of alternative fuels, including biofuels.
- Modern gensets: Germany’s Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology, and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) engaged VINCORION to develop and produce advanced power generators and corresponding battery storage modules. These are due to be delivered in the 200 and 50 kilowatt power classes starting in 2026, following successful troop testing and pilot production.
You can download the full white paper here.
What You Need to Know about Green Defense
What awaits the defense industry in 2024 and beyond? Which technological trends and developments should you keep a close eye on? We asked our experts at VINCORION.
Henning Radtke, Head of Governmental Affairs at VINCORION:
“The interoperability of systems and platforms for military operations is of essential importance and, in my view, will be a hot topic in the coming years. We are observing a rapidly progressing consolidation and harmonization across NATO’s armed forces. This has several advantages: armed forces from different countries are familiar with their partners’ systems and can use them and, if necessary, share maintenance and repair capacities. This creates economies of scale in joint procurement and deployment as well as greater and more reliable capacity utilization in the industry.”
Daniel Zeitler, Head of Product Management at VINCORION:
“NATO plans to be climate neutral by 2050 and the EU and national armies also have clearly defined net-zero carbon emissions targets for the next 20 years. But we know, that military systems have life cycles of more than 20 years, so armed forces need a future-proof energysupply already today. To achieve this, we must exploit all the technological possibilities offered by hybridization and electrification and, in addition to reducing emissions, integrate the resulting tactical, user-friendliness, and cost-efficiency benefits.
Our PGM low emissionsV gensets are a perfect example of this – thanks to their hybrid technology, fewer refueling operations are required, for example, which has direct tactical advantages in terms of personnel requirements, logistics, and costs. More climate-friendly, tactically superior, and more economical – in my view, green defense is a groundbreaking trend.”
Patrick Möser, Product Manager Digital & Service at VINCORION:
“Since 2022, we have seen a strong increase in demand for an effective spare parts supply and more efficient MRO processes in the military sector. In order to meet these needs, we are focusing on creating new, innovative services. Thereby we are using the power of digitalization for upcoming challenges, to already virtually model and evaluate the usage of complex weapons systems at an early stage. With this, we support our customers in closing capability gaps and opening up new potential. Market-driven availability, operational readiness, and lean life-cycle costs are at the heart of this approach. Our end customers, e.g., for our new hybrid gensets, value this approach.”
Rolf Kummer, Director Strategic Projects at VINCORION:
“With military operations becoming increasingly complex and unpredictable, modularity in military vehicles is becoming more and more relevant, which is why I believe it will be a key trend in the coming years. A modular design increases the operational readiness of land systems by ensuring that individual modules are always available for replacement, e.g. through spares pooling, thereby significantly reducing delivery times. This not only decreases the downtime of weapon systems, but also saves costs. This is why the aerospace industry has successfully been using modular design and logistics concepts such as these for some time.”
The defense industry should keep a close eye on these technological developments
“A jointly developed air defense system (…) would also be a security gain for Europe as a whole, and an outstanding example of what we mean when we talk about strengthening the European pillar within NATO,” German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said during a speech at Charles University in Prague in the summer of 2022. With these words, he paved the way for the European Sky Shield Initiative. In this article, we explain what’s behind it exactly:
What’s planned?
The European Sky Shield Initiative, or ESSI, aims to strengthen European air defense. This is because many European states have identified capability gaps in protecting against air attacks and lack sufficient technical equipment. The war of aggression in Ukraine changed the perception of the threat, with the result being that there is now an increased focus on the expansion of integrated air and missile defense, for example against enemy drones, missiles, and aircraft.
How did it come to this?
On October 13, 2022, 15 European nations signed the agreement on the European Sky Shield Initiative at NATO headquarters in Brussels. This also included Germany. In the meantime, a total of 19 countries have joined the initiative. The air defense systems will be acquired, operated, and maintained jointly in order to create synergies and reduce procurement costs through higher unit numbers.
How does a protective shield work?
An effective protective shield consists of several systems with different ranges that build on each other, are interconnected, and span across the protected area like a dome. One system has several components; in the case of Patriot, for example, this means a multi-radar unit that detects objects in the airspace, a fire control station and launcher for firing guided missiles, and a power generation unit and radio relay troops. Notable in this context is that VINCORION has been reliably supplying the power unit for Patriot’s radar system and launcher for decades.
Which systems does Germany plan to procure?
The German government has particularly identified capability gaps in short to medium-range and long-range ballistic missile defense. It intends to quickly remedy this situation with systems that are already available on the market and have been thoroughly tested in the field:
Iris-T SLM for medium ranges: The system from German manufacturer Diehl Defence is currently demonstrating its capabilities under real combat conditions in Ukraine. With a range of up to 40 kilometers, it defends against drones, helicopters, aircraft, and cruise missiles. The energy supply plays a crucial role in ensuring that the systems function reliably. VINCORION supplies the power supply unit for IRIS-T’s rocket launcher.
Patriot for long ranges: The German armed forces are already using the US Patriot system. The manufacturer intends to maintain its capabilities through 2048 and beyond and plans to modernize the system as part of the European Sky Shield Initiative. Equipped with a variety of guided missiles, Patriot can hold its own against large unmanned systems, cruise missiles, and tactical ballistic missiles with a range of up to 68 kilometers. As a long-standing partner of manufacturer RTX (Raytheon), VINCORION supplies power units for Patriot radars and launchers worldwide.
Arrow-3 for extremely long ranges: To date, there is also a gap in the defense against long and medium-range missiles that fly at high altitudes. To this end, Germany plans to procure the Arrow-3 system, which was jointly developed by Israel and the United States. It can intercept enemy missiles even outside the atmosphere at a distance of up to 2,400 kilometers. The German government signed a letter of intent to purchase it at the end of September 2023, and it is expected to be operational by 2025.
What You Need to Know About the European Sky Shield Initiative
A field report from the InfoDVag Heer 2023
The same is true in the defense industry as in all other industries: in order to develop suitable solutions and products, we need to precisely understand our customers’ requirements. In our case, this includes intensively studying the German Armed Forces’ procedures and deployment scenarios. The “Dienstliche Veranstaltung zur Information im Heer” (Official Army Informational Event, abbreviated InfoDVag H in German) offers the opportunity to gain real-world insights into the day-to-day operations of the German Armed Forces. Our colleague Bjane Jacobsen, Business Process Analyst at VINCORION, completed this one-week course. In the following blog article, he reports on his experiences with the German Armed Forces in Munster:
June 26, 2023 – “People from All Walks of Life”
The group participating in the course consists of a mix of people from all walks of life and regions of Germany, from 24 to 64 years old, male as well as female. It includes library directors, social workers, IT specialists, judges, government officials, mayors, pastors, and members of the German parliament. Upon putting on our uniforms, we set aside our everyday lives for a week. One of the toughest parts is not being reachable by phone for seven whole days.
After a brief introduction to formal duties – marching, saluting, mustering – we’re temporarily appointed first lieutenants of the reserve via a tap on the shoulder. A special highlight on the first day is our ceremonial pledge in the presence of our brigadier general, accompanied by the naval music corps from Wilhelmshaven, which came especially for the occasion, as well as an honor guard.
June 27, 2023 – ”The Only Constant Is That the Situation Is Always Changing”
5:30 a.m. – “InfoDVag, TIME TO GET UP!“ echoes through the corridors outside our rooms. Some of the group had wisely set their alarm clocks for a few minutes earlier, while others are now struggling to get out of bed. After eating breakfast together, the press review is conducted by the press officer of the Tank Force School. Our brigade general introduces us to basic training in the German Army. His presentation is followed by a lively discussion.
After that, we head out to the parade ground. As we get off the buses, two NH90 helicopters from the German Air Force thunder overhead. Fortunately, everyone has their safety goggles on, so the swirling branches and dust aren’t a problem.
Detailed safety briefings by the crews prepare us for the flight. Groups 1 and 2 can fly to the training area as scheduled. When it comes to the rest of the groups, the weather has other plans. Due to an approaching thunderstorm, groups 5 and 6 are forced to wait in the rain for the “air-to-bus replacement service,” while groups 3 and 4 enjoy their lunch at the Faßberg air base. As we come to find out, the only constant is that the situation is always changing.
Next, a Fuchs armored transport vehicle and ATF Dingo infantry mobility vehicle take us on a fast-paced, cross-country journey to the orientation march. Solving the tasks together builds camaraderie among the group as we move from activity to activity. One particular highlight is the task of overcoming obstacles as a group – like the “spider web minefield” and the ride in an inflatable boat.
June 28, 2023 – “A Day Dedicated to Heavy Vehicles“
This day is all about “heavy metal” – in other words, completely dedicated to the German Army’s large, tracked vehicles. We draw lots for off-road rides with the Marder, Puma, and Leopard 2 tanks. Barreling across the terrain at over 50 km/h, the tracks cut through the moorland sand, branches brush close over our heads, and dust clouds the sky. We experience the ride in the hull of the infantry fighting vehicles and are amazed at how cramped it is for the soldiers inside. An armored infantry tank demolition squad impressively demonstrates dismounting and reconnaissance.
Now we’re standing next to the trenches. In an equally impressive scenario, the tank force demonstrates to us its precise coordination of combined forces engaged in a firefight. We experience the Leopard 2, Puma, Marder, as well as dismounted armored infantry in live combat. We also become acquainted with the reconnaissance unit and its Fennek reconnaissance vehicle, Fuchs armored personnel carrier, and the Luna drone.
Business as usual: up at 5:30 a.m., breakfast, press review. Routine is setting in. Today’s special guest is the Inspector General of the German Army, Lieutenant General Alfons Mais, who speaks about the future of the German Armed Forces and the political background behind decisions. It’s a lively discussion with the German Army’s top brass.
This is followed by an educational briefing on Army handguns, with a special focus on safety and shooting techniques. Highly skilled instructors from the ongoing officer training course provide valuable tips – first on the simulator, then out on the shooting range. At the same time, we learn about life in the field: starting a fire, collecting drinking water, and pitching a tent.
Another highlight is our visit to the Munster Tank Museum. Old equipment – intense emotions. The development of tanks over the years is fascinating – from the first models such as the A7V armored fighting vehicle to the Königstiger and the Leopard 2.
Conclusion: “The Combat Uniform Unites”
It’s an intense week packed full of extraordinary insights into the German Armed Forces – things we don’t experience every day. We’re all going to remember the wide range of events and activities – from technical presentations and lively discussions to extensive demonstrations and numerous first-hand experiences – for many years to come. Everyone that took part in the course was left with a rough understanding of what camaraderie means. The combat uniform unites.
The mood was cheerful, yet our minds were also on the serious things that the German Armed Forces also stand for: combat, wounds, and death. In the German Armed Forces of 2023, we encounter soldiers from Hungary, Thailand, Brazil, South Korea, Italy, and even Ukraine. We’re impressed by young women and men who are highly competent and motivated to complete their tasks. We owe a debt of gratitude to the members of the German Armed Forces who defend our democratic values and freedom. We, too, have come to understand what defensive democracy means and how necessary it is.
Fotos: VINCORION / Bjane Jacobsen
More information about the InfoDVag Heer 2023 is available here.
There has been some movement on the expansion of German air defense after the German chancellor outlined the idea of a European solution. But the introduction of an entirely new tactical air defense system is currently not in sight.
There has been movement on the expansion of German air defense after the German Chancellor outlined the idea of a European solution. However, the introduction of an entirely new tactical air defense system is not currently foreseeable. Thus, the solution will likely come down to a further development of the Patriot system. The air threat from maneuverable ballistic missiles and hypersonic weapons is increasing – which literally calls for upgrading the existing system with contemporary capabilities.
Energy supply plays a key role in modernization and adaptation to current defense scenarios, as more and more powerful components are being used. This is the case, for example, in the design of new radars such as the LTAMDS radar or in the formation of entire protective shields, which are also intended to grow with the system and be interlinkable via plug-and-fight functions. At the same time, however, resource-saving components are also required, in terms of emissions, but also fuel consumption and thus deployment costs.
VINCORION has been a supplier for the Patriot System for over 30 years. As a technology company focusing on innovative energy systems in safety-critical applications, it concentrates on modernizing the American air defense system. The company is benefiting from its experience with mobile, hybrid power supply units in the 50 to 200 kilowatt range, such as those VINCORION will be supplying to the German armed forces. It can be revealed that the first design reviews are scheduled for the end of 2023.
Patriot System – Power generator (ExPP)
HPS launcher for PAT Hybrid
Patriot System – Power generator (EPP)
HPS launcher for PAT Hybrid
In this concept, one of VINCORION’s most important building blocks is also decarbonization. The technology company is planning a modular product family that combines engines, generators and supplementary energy storage systems for hybrid use. The concept includes prototypes for launchers and aerial mast vehicles with 15 kW, for stand-alone fire control stations with 30 kW, and 150kW gensets for radar power supply. All modules are planned with a standard 20-foot transport interface to the carrier vehicle – this simplifies logistics and makes the gensets easy to deploy.
The strict Stage V exhaust gas values are set. VINCORION’s generating sets can be fueled with common NATO fuels and operated in parallel as well as in combination with several systems. The decisive innovation here is the emission downgrade technology. For example, it enables power generation with low-grade fuels while maintaining a reliable power supply during foreign missions. This guarantees a reliable and safe mission. However, the local grid can also serve as an alternative energy source. A dual-track power supply is thus established via the modules. In the event of a failure, the power generation unit can take over immediately.
The protection of major cities and settlements, energy plants, or infrastructure against threats from the air is the subject of controversial debate. Especially since the intensified Russian missile attacks on Ukraine, the question of what defense systems can do—and which ones are deployed in Germany—has become pressing. On the fringes of the meeting of NATO defense ministers in Brussels, 14 European countries and Germany have just signed the “Letter of Intent” to establish a European Sky Shield Initiative (ESSI) for air defense—because Germany has some catching up to do in defending itself against threats from the air and space. The technology company VINCORION from Wedel near Hamburg, itself a supplier of power for defense systems, provides an overview.
These Systems Are in Use in NATO
“An effective protective shield consists of several systems that build on each other, are linked, and span like a dome,” explains Dr. Stefan Stenzel, managing director of VINCORION. The best-known defense system is “Patriot” from the manufacturer Raytheon, which has been on the market since the 1980s and is constantly being further developed. The current version is “Patriot PAC-3 MSE.” The Patriot guided missile can engage up to five targets simultaneously, such as ballistic missiles, which it hits directly. There are versions with different ranges available. As Patriot is continuously improved, it will be in service beyond 2040.
“Energy supply plays a major role in the modernization and adaptation to current defense scenarios, as more and more powerful components are being used,” says Stefan Stenzel. “This is the case, for example, in the design of new radars such as the LTAMDS radar, or in the formation of entire protective shields, which are also expected to grow further and be interconnectable via plug-and-fight functionality.” At the same time, he said, resource-saving components are also required, in terms of emissions, but also fuel consumption, and thus deployment costs.
Another system is the U.S. “THAAD” (“Terminal High Altitude Area Defense”), which is deployed at the medium range of around 200 kilometers, by the U.S. and the United Arab Emirates. This system can stop missiles in the final phase of their flight.
The new “IRIS-T SLM” system from Germany has been hitting the headlines, as a first example of this system has just been delivered to Ukraine. So far, it has only been deployed in a few countries; it is likely, that the German Bundeswehr will be supplied with it. But the missiles it works with are proven, being based on a development for the Eurofighter. “IRIS-T” can engage jets, helicopters, short-range missiles, drones, and guided missiles with a range of up to 40 kilometers.
For the outer part of the protective shields, which build up like domes, Germany plans to acquire the Israeli “Arrow 3” system, which can intercept long- and medium-range missiles. Development began with the “Arrow” in 1986 in Israel with U.S. participation. The new “Arrow 3” is considered to be very flexible; enemy missiles are to be destroyed by direct hits. The protective shield of the new “European Sky Shield Initiative” could consist of three systems: “IRIS-T”, “Patriot,” and “Arrow 3.”
France and Italy manufacture the “SAMP/T” system, which has been operational since 2002. The defense system can be equipped with different missiles, which reach a range between 30 kilometers[AG1] (“Aster 15”) and up to 120 kilometers (“Aster 30”). The missiles are smaller than those of the “Patriot” system.
The U.S. now supplies the “NASAMS” system to Ukraine, which is built in Norway and the U.S. It can be coupled with “Patriot”, which is intended for the longer ranges. Currently, the “NASAMS 3” system reaches a range of up to 50 kilometers. In Europe, this system is used as a protective shield, for example, by Lithuania and the Netherlands.
These Systems Also Exist
The Israeli industry is also a leader, producing “David’s Sling” (up to 160 kilometers) and the “Iron Dome” (up to 17 kilometers), for example, which are two very advanced defense systems. However, they are not supplied to Ukraine.
On the Russian side, the S-300 and S-400 systems are in use, whose hit rates have performed less well in NATO studies than the Patriot system. Ukraine has the S-300 and achieved intercept rates of up to 50 percent with it in recent missile attacks. It has a range of 75 to 100 kilometers.
In the meantime, Germany planned to develop another system, the “TVLS,” which was based on the “MEADS” project. In 2020, however, the Bundestag passed a resolution halting further development. Other countries that develop and manufacture protective shields are India and China, as well as Taiwan.
How Does a Modern Defense System Work?
A radar looks at the airspace over a given area. It can perform friend/foe detection, which is interpreted. All aircraft are detected, because it not only concerns airplanes, but also missiles and larger drones. If the radar detects enemy contact, the defensive missile is launched. In cooperation with the radar, the missile can also be retargeted until it finally hits the flying object and renders it harmless.
A secure energy supply is essential at all times: VINCORION supplies the energy for the radar system and Patriot’s missile launcher and IRIS-T’s launcher. “What makes it special is the system’s load profile,” explains Stefan Stenzel. Over the course of the mission, he says, there are always special loads for which energy must be provided. Hybrid systems can be significantly more efficient because they allow operation on the grid when a system is stationary. “The challenge is to always provide as much energy as is needed – also an important undertaking from an environmental perspective,” says Stefan Stenzel.
Patriot is transportable, but future systems will also be housed in containers. The modules will have a standard 20-foot transport interface to the carrier vehicle—making logistics easier and the units readily deployable.
“IRIS-T,” for example, consists of three parts: the radar system, command post and missile launcher mounted on trucks. Multiple systems can be coupled to form a more effective protective shield.
What Can Help Ukraine?
Indeed, the IRIS-T equipment seems to be very helpful for Ukraine in the war with Russia. Initially, the first “IRIS-T” has been delivered, and three more are to be added in the course of 2023. However, it is still unclear whether Ukraine will get a “Patriot” system. The Kyiv government has been promoting the delivery of such a system to the U.S.
One unit of the “NASAMS-3” system has been delivered from the U.S., with up to seven more to follow. Concerns about a missile shield falling into Russia’s hands may also play a role in some systems, according to some experts. So far, France and Italy have refused to deliver their systems. However, movement has come into play there: France wants to deliver a system in principle, but is still holding back on details.
However, the systems that will be delivered to Ukraine, be it “IRIS-T” or “NASAMS,” have yet to be produced. Resource-saving components are required for production and operation, not only in terms of emissions, but also in terms of fuel consumption and operating costs. VINCORION benefits from its experience with mobile, hybrid power supply units, such as those it will supply to the German armed forces in the new power generation units SEA.
Media Contact:
Florian Hanauer
PR-Manager
VINCORION Advanced Systems GmbH
Feldstrasse 155
22880 Wedel, Germany
Phone: +49 4103 60-2250
Mail: florian.hanauer@vincorion.com
About VINCORION
VINCORION is a technology company that specializes in innovative power systems for safety-critical applications, including generators, electric motors, and drives, gensets, power electronics, and hybrid power systems.
As a partner to the civil aviation, security and defense, and rail industries, VINCORION develops and manufactures solutions tailored to its customers’ specific requirements on the basis of an in-depth dialog. A high-performance customer support team provides assistance and service to users of the company’s own products and those from third parties throughout the entire product life cycle.
With approximately 700 employees at sites in Germany, and the United States, VINCORION generated revenues of approximately 145 million euros in 2021.
For more information, visit our website www.vincorion.com sowie auf Twitter und LinkedIn.
Since the invasion of Ukraine, Germany and the European Union have faced a tangible threat right in their own backyard. We’ve all been feeling the effects on our daily lives, on the economy, culture, and society at large for quite some time now. The events marked a turning point in the discussion about the German Armed Forces’ role and equipment and have forced us to take a critical look our own defense capabilities. Just a few months ago, investments were considered unsustainable, even socially detrimental.
Immediate Readiness
Like the entire defense industry, we believe it is our job is to equip the German Armed Forces as well as NATO and EU member states with high-performance equipment – both in the short term and within the scope of long-planned procurement projects such as the Heavy Transport Helicopter, the Eurofighter, Puma, Leopard 2, and Boxer. It’s obvious that more is needed to achieve this than just a few new screws on the old equipment – low-emission, hybrid technologies are critical to the German Armed Forces’ future viability.
Energy Efficiency along the Entire Production Chain
At VINCORION’s German sites in Wedel, Altenstadt, and Essen, we are hard at work enshrining the concept of sustainability throughout the entire cycle – from supply chains and low-emission manufacturing techniques to designing efficient and resource-friendly power solutions for civilian and military applications. VINCORION has been developing tailored power management and propulsion system solutions for civil and military applications and vehicles in the air, on land, and in the water for more than six decades. We intend to use this expertise to help create the technologies of tomorrow – and the green military or green defense.
Tactical Superiority
Our hybrid power systems are among the solutions that can improve the military’s “carbon bootprint.” They optimize efficiency in military platforms’ power management, directly reducing greenhouse gas emissions as a result. In field camp or air defense systems, the self-sufficient, adaptable, and hybrid power architecture also becomes a tactical advantage, cutting fuel consumption by up to half, halving downtime, and guaranteeing a fourfold increase in fail-safety. In addition, the power systems are designed to support the integration of self-sufficient fuel cell technology and other sustainable energy sources.
This potential can also clearly be seen in the tactical supply of power to military infrastructures. Our newly developed gensets with Stage V engines guarantee low-emission operation with state-of-the-art AdBlue exhaust gas aftertreatment. And yet military fuel can also be used by means of an “emission downgrade.” In this context, these cutting-edge power systems are optimized in such a way that retrofitting them in the field is quick and easy, both in terms of hardware and software.
The use of maintenance-friendly components and modular systems that can be replaced and upgraded with flexibility is a major advantage in terms of development speed and total cost of ownership. Developers and users have already gained valuable experience with the gun turret and weapon stabilization system in the Leopard 2.
Challenge and Support
Resource-friendly and sustainable defense technologies are already ready for use in a very practical way. For this trend to continue, the defense industry must be able to invest – both with confidence and for the long term. This is an important point, which is why it has also found its way into the discussion on the EU taxonomy.