The defense industry is gaining importance in Germany, with almost four out of ten respondents seeing it as making a significant contribution to the security of Germany and Europe. In addition, 20% of Germans have a more favorable opinion of the sector today than in 2022. The respondents found the exciting technologies (29%) and opportunities for international collaboration (21%) particularly attractive aspects of working in the defense industry.

A recent representative survey has revealed that many German citizens view the defense industry as a meaningful field of work that makes an important contribution to security. At the same time, measures are needed to modernize the industry and make it more transparent.

Just under four out of ten respondents (39 percent) view working in the defense technology industry as an opportunity to “contribute to the security of Germany and Europe.” Respondents particularly cited “exciting technologies and projects” (29 percent) and “opportunities for international collaboration” (21 percent) as factors that make the industry attractive. This is the result of a representative survey conducted by YouGov on behalf of technology company VINCORION, in which more than 2,000 people were surveyed in April 2025.

“Here at VINCORION, we are seeing this trend reflected quite clearly in our job application numbers, which have doubled since 2023,” explained Kajetan von Mentzingen, CEO of VINCORION. “Last year alone, we were able to expand our workforce to 900 employees – we are growing by almost 100 employees per year. We have already received 2,500 applications in the first quarter of 2025. What is particularly noteworthy is that many applicants are specifically interested in combining high-tech development with a contribution to European security.”

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Increased Relevance Since the War in Ukraine

The geopolitical shifts since 2022 have increased awareness of the importance of the defense industry. One in five respondents (21 percent) said that their opinion of the industry has improved since 2022.

This change in sentiment reveals clear differences between age groups and genders – while more than one in four men (28 percent) have developed a more positive attitude toward the defense industry, the same is true for only about one in seven women (15 percent). The improvement is particularly evident among young adults between the ages of 25 and 34 (29 percent) and among people with a higher level of education, such as the Abitur (German university entrance qualification) (26 percent).

“The sector’s relevance has increased, as can be seen in public perception, in the political arena, and also in our growing business,” said von Mentzingen. “VINCORION exceeded the 200 million euro mark in revenue for the first time in 2024 – a significant increase on the previous year’s figure of 163 million euros. We are seeing particularly strong growth in demand for energy-efficient power generators for air defense and components for armored vehicle stabilization. And we develop cutting-edge technologies such as our new rescue hoist for helicopters.”

Clear Mandate for Policymakers

The survey also revealed German citizens’ priorities when it comes to investing in security and defense (respondents were asked to name the three most important investment areas): For 40 percent, investing in equipment and personnel for the Bundeswehr was the top priority. A total of 34 percent said they would invest in civil defense and emergency management, while 29 percent cited European defense collaboration. Overall, 28 percent consider directly strengthening the domestic defense industry as an important priority.

“The results show that people in Germany have recognized the importance of a coordinated European defense strategy – and that is in line with our own corporate strategy,” emphasized von Mentzingen. “VINCORION is already actively involved in European research initiatives such as the NOMAD project, which is funded by the European Defense Fund with 20 million euros and in which we are working on cutting-edge energy storage systems for military bases. In this project, we are contributing our expertise in generators and hybrid power systems and collaborating with partners from nine European countries.”

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Challenges Facing the Industry

Many respondents also view the defense industry as “relevant” (30 percent) and “responsible” (22 percent). It is also perceived as “crisis-proof” (20 percent) – which is likely to be an important factor in times of economic uncertainty.

The correlation with interest in politics is noteworthy: the more interested in politics respondents say they are, the higher their assessment of the industry’s relevance. The range extends from 14 percent among people with no interest in politics whatsoever to 41 percent among those who are highly interested in politics.

There are also clear differences when it comes to party preferences: while 38 percent of CDU/CSU and Bündnis 90/Die Grünen voters consider the industry to be “relevant” and as many as 48 percent of FDP voters do so, only 23 percent of AfD voters share this view.

At the same time, the survey revealed room for improvement, with 26 percent of respondents considering the industry to be “slow” and only five percent saying it was “transparent.”

“We have recognized these challenges at VINCORION and have initiated specific measures to counteract them,” noted von Mentzingen. “In order to accelerate our production processes, we are currently transitioning our manufacturing operations in Wedel from a small-scale factory to a more efficient high-volume production facility. This will enable us to better meet the sharp rise in demand, for example for components for the Leopard 2. We have also made progress in terms of transparency. For example, through our commitment to green defense, we are playing a pioneering role in the industry and communicating openly about our sustainability strategy and specific projects such as our power generators, which consume less energy and therefore increase the operational readiness and safety of the armed forces.”

It is the responsibility of the industry, but also of the new federal government, to communicate to the citizens what efforts are necessary to ensure Germany’s security.

 

About the Study

The representative survey was conducted by YouGov on behalf of VINCORION.  The findings of this survey come from online interviews with members of the YouGov panel who agreed to take part beforehand. A total of 2,046 people were interviewed for this survey between April 14 and 16, 2025. The results were broken down by age, gender, and region, and then weighted accordingly. The results are representative of the civilian population in Germany aged 18 and over.

“Defense Made in Bavaria”: State Secretary Tobias Gotthardt Reviews Development of Next-Generation Energy Systems for Air Defense, Focusing on Efficiency, Resource Conservation, and Job Creation in Altenstadt.

Technology company Vincorion is expanding its Altenstadt facility. During his facility tour, Tobias Gotthardt, State Secretary at the Bavarian Ministry of Economic Affairs, Regional Development and Energy, was briefed on the development of modern air defense systems and the planned facility expansion.

“Our Altenstadt site has evolved into a center of excellence for mobile power generation,” explained Jürgen Arold, Managing Director and Vice President Engineering. “Here, we manufacture not only subsystems for critical air defense systems such as Patriot and IRIS-T but also develop the next generation of power generating equipment for the German Armed Forces.”

 

Facility Expansion for European Sky Shield

To meet growing demand, Vincorion is planning to construct a new production facility at the Altenstadt site. “We are setting the stage for future growth,” said Arold. Adjacent to the current modern production halls, the company maintains reserve space on the grounds of the former military airfield in Altenstadt, where the new facility will be built.

“We plan to expand revenue at the Altenstadt site alone to 150 million euros in the coming years,” Arold explained – representing a fourfold increase. This growth will create new employment opportunities. Vincorion plans to recruit a significant number of new colleagues over the next few years.

The increasing demand for modern air defense systems, particularly within the framework of the European Sky Shield Initiative, necessitates the expansion of production capabilities. The planned new production facility will meet state-of-the-art standards and is designed for efficient production of complex systems.

Bavarian Mid-Sized Companies Driving Innovation

Vincorion develops power generators in various output classes for the German Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw) in Koblenz. “Our new generation of ‘PGM low emissions’ power generating modules sets new standards in efficiency, operational readiness, and environmental sustainability,” explained Daniel Zeitler, Head of Product Management. “The units comply with strict EU Stage V emission standards during normal operation while being optimized for military deployment under the most demanding conditions.”

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State Secretary Gotthardt expressed his approval: “The achievements in Altenstadt demonstrate the tremendous innovation potential of Bavaria’s mid-sized enterprises. Cutting-edge research isn’t limited to large corporations. Our mid-sized companies are known for their innovative strength. As hidden champions, they not only succeed in international markets but also ensure regional value creation. I am pleased that Vincorion has chosen to expand in the Weilheim-Schongau region, creating interesting job opportunities locally.”

Green Defense as Future Technology

Vincorion is committed to “Green Defense,” recognizing that power generators in air defense systems operate 24/7. Modern technology that reduces fuel consumption and emissions benefits both security and resource conservation. State Secretary Gotthardt witnessed this commitment during his tour of the modern production facility in Altenstadt.

The new power generating modules can be operated not only with diesel but also connected to the local power grid or sustainable energy sources. “Our systems are prepared for integration with renewable energy sources such as photovoltaic systems and can be operated in conjunction with battery storage systems,” explained Zeitler. “This not only reduces fuel consumption and emissions but also enhances tactical capabilities in the field.”

Initial test models of the new units have already been delivered, with pre-production models scheduled for delivery by the end of 2025. Series production will require significant expansion of production floor space.

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Shaping the Company’s Future Together

Vincorion, with its three locations in Germany – Altenstadt, Wedel near Hamburg, and Essen – is on a growth trajectory: Revenue reached 200 million euros in 2024, with the workforce growing to 900 employees company-wide. The Altenstadt site alone currently employs over 220 skilled workers.

“As the works council, we have the opportunity to collaborate with management in supporting the expansion, making important decisions for the workforce, and thus shaping and securing the company’s future,” says Michele Ciranna, Chairman of the Works Council, the company’s elected employee representatives.

“With our modern energy systems, we are making a significant contribution to the modernization of the German Armed Forces,” emphasized Arold. “The mid-sized business sector demonstrates that defense capabilities and climate protection can go hand in hand. The technology is available, and we are already working on our expansion, capability building, and process optimization – now we need reliable framework conditions for the necessary investments.”

Technical Expertise at Home

“Bavaria and Germany as a whole need a capable and sustainable defense industry,” State Secretary Gotthardt concluded. “Current geopolitical challenges require investments in modern equipment. Companies like Vincorion demonstrate that we have the technological expertise right here at home.”

Technology Company Strengthens its Position in German Defense Capabilities.

Technology company VINCORION has maintained its growth trajectory, reaching a milestone of EUR 200 million in revenue for 2024 – marking a substantial increase from the previous year. This positive development underscores the Wedel-based company’s robust position as a technology provider, with orders spanning from power generation systems for armed forces modernization, including generators for armored vehicles, to civilian aviation technology, such as the development of next-generation electric rescue hoists for helicopters.

“Our performance in 2024 demonstrates that German industry is taking its responsibility for national security seriously and is delivering the necessary capabilities,” says Managing Director Kajetan von Mentzingen. “The successful execution of key projects showcases the innovation potential and competence of Germany’s defense industry.”

Strategic Projects Gain Momentum

Notable achievements during the year included supplying critical components for the Leopard 2 main battle tank, such as observation modules for situational awareness and target acquisition, along with advancing power electronics development for the Puma infantry fighting vehicle. Of particular significance are new orders for the Leopard 2 from European nations.

For these and other tank platforms, VINCORION supplies the innovative GTD chaser modular weapon stabilization system, which the company unveiled at the Eurosatory defense exhibition in Paris in summer 2024. This system is implemented in current and future generations of the Leopard 2, as well as the PzH 2000 self-propelled howitzer and other vehicles.

The company’s Altenstadt facility in Bavaria focuses on manufacturing power generators for the Bundeswehr (German Armed Forces) and air defense systems for German and allied armed forces. The Essen facility primarily produces generators that deliver significant performance enhancement for the Boxer armored vehicle. VINCORION’s U.S. subsidiary ensures spare parts supply for the Patriot air defense system.

“Recent developments underscore the necessity to steadily advance Bundeswehr modernization,” explains von Mentzingen. “Our objective must be to substantially strengthen Germany’s defense capabilities by 2029. This requires sustained investment in modern equipment and forward-looking technologies.”

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Growing Public Support

A recent representative study by the Bundeswehr Center for Military History and Social Sciences reveals a fundamental shift in public perception. “The findings are remarkable,” notes von Mentzingen. “82 percent of the 2,000 respondents expressed favorable views of the Bundeswehr, indicating increased public recognition of our armed forces’ significance.”

Particularly notable is the marked increase in support for higher defense spending: while only 41 percent favored an increase three years ago, that figure has risen to 58 percent. “This significant uptick confirms a fundamental shift in public awareness,” von Mentzingen emphasizes. “There is growing recognition that security and defense capabilities come at a cost.”

“The broad support for meeting NATO commitments is especially significant,” von Mentzingen adds. “70 percent of respondents support fulfilling financial commitments – representing a clear mandate for policymakers.” These figures also indicate the public’s realistic understanding of security policy challenges. Additional data is available in the appendix.

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Future Investment Requirements

“Sustainable modernization of our armed forces will require additional investment,” von Mentzingen explains. “The previous special fund was an important first step. We now need to consider increasing defense spending to 2.5-3 percent of GDP to achieve our objectives.”

“Our international customers are seeking enhanced support from the German government for procurement of German systems,” the Managing Director reports. “The United States sets an example: their government acts as a partner, provides political backing for business, and establishes clear processes. We need a similar framework in Germany – it builds trust and enhances our attractiveness as a supplier.”

Collaborating with French or Italian industry partners presents challenges for German companies, von Mentzingen continues: “Each country maintains different regulations regarding military equipment supply. This unnecessarily complicates joint projects. We need standardized European regulations – otherwise, German companies risk exclusion from crucial future initiatives.”

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Expanding Civilian Market Expertise

Beyond its core defense sector operations, VINCORION continues to strengthen its civilian market position. “Our technological expertise, particularly in power supply and drive technology, has significant civilian applications,” explains von Mentzingen. A current example is the development of next-generation helicopter rescue hoists, combining superior safety standards with cutting-edge technology.

Workforce Growth and Training Excellence

The company’s success is reflected in its expanding workforce, which grew to approximately 900 employees by 2024, with 550 based at the Wedel facility. “This growth underscores our attractiveness as an employer,” says HR Director Nina Römhild. The low turnover rate of less than three percent demonstrates high employee satisfaction.

VINCORION maintains a strong commitment to training: approximately 50 young people are currently enrolled in apprenticeships or dual-study programs. Programs range from electronics technician training for devices and systems to industrial engineering. “Training qualified specialists is central to our future strategy,” Römhild emphasizes.

“We see further growth potential for 2025,” says von Mentzingen. “Our innovative products and dedicated employees position us ideally to support armed forces modernization. We rely on close collaboration with all stakeholders.”

VINCORION Generators: Increasingly Demanding Requirements on the Battlefield Require Innovative Power Generation Solutions.

A boxer is on a mission somewhere in Europe, maneuvering in a complex situation – the crew has to react quickly and is dependent on its high-tech systems. Target acquisition sensors, for example, detect enemy positions, encrypted communication systems maintain contact with the command post, and effective weapon systems deliver the necessary firepower. But all this requires energy – and the demands are growing rapidly. Modern military vehicles are “power plants on wheels,” and a reliable power supply is becoming a critical factor for mission success.

When it comes to military power supplies, VINCORION plays a vital role. With its generators, the technology company headquartered in Wedel, near Hamburg, Germany, offers solutions for use in military vehicles. They provide a reliable supply of power, even under extreme conditions. The company’s generators can be found, for example, in vehicles such as the Leopard 2 main battle tank, the Boxer, the Puma, and the Panzerhaubitze 2000 self-propelled howitzer.

Power for the Infantry Mother Ship

These generators are in demand – VINCORION recently signed a contract to supply 740 EPG husky W 600 onboard generators for the Boxer. This generator supplies up to 600 amps of power, making it ready for future requirements as well. A new digital voltage regulator has been incorporated, enabling the generator to be adapted to different applications.

In the German army, the GTK Boxer is the “mother ship” of the infantry, and is available to the German armed forces in various versions as a group transport vehicle, command vehicle, heavy armored ambulance, and also as a driving school vehicle. The Boxer’s fighting compartment can carry eight infantrymen along with the latest equipment.

Compact, Powerful, and Rugged: VINCORION Generators in Detail

VINCORION’s EPG husky series stands out thanks to its compact design and high power density. It delivers maximum performance with a small footprint, which is crucial in light of the limited space available in military vehicles.  At the same time, reliability is always the top priority for the company’s engineers – VINCORION generators are designed to operate under extreme conditions, regardless of whether that means heat, cold, dust, or vibrations.

“The new, more powerful Boxer is a prime example of the increasing demands on the power supply in modern military vehicles,” reports Daniel Zeitler, Head of Product Management. The Boxer is currently used by many countries in Europe and beyond. In addition to the German armed forces, the vehicle is also deployed in the Netherlands, Lithuania, Great Britain, and Australia.

VINCORION’s generators provide the power required for the Boxer’s sophisticated systems, ensuring that the weapon technology, sensor technology, and communication systems remain fully operational. VINCORION can now offer generators with up to 1,000 amps in the conventional 28V range, which can be retrofitted in various vehicles. After all, experts know that the energy demand in armored vehicles will continue to increase. The best example of this is the power-hungry PUMA infantry fighting vehicle, which can only be operated using a high-voltage generator. In contrast to conventional onboard generators, this is integrated directly into the main shaft between the engine and transmission. This high-performance power supply system is also from VINCORION.

Innovative Technologies for Maximum Efficiency

But what makes the 28V generators in the EPG husky series so special?  On the one hand, they feature innovative cooling technology that enables a high power density in the smallest of spaces, as Daniel Zeitler explains. On the other hand, the generators are specifically designed to emit an extremely small amount of electromagnetic interference to ensure the functionality of other electronic systems in the vehicle. Their ruggedness and reliability are ensured through the use of high-quality materials and strict quality control procedures.

“The new generator is ‘plug-and-play’ with the old one,” says Zeitler, ”it precisely fits into the existing installation space in the vehicles.” This means that, in addition to all new vehicles, existing Boxers could also be equipped with them when the demand for power increases. The predecessor model, the SF 217, was able to deliver 370 amps, and this has been increased to 600 amps in the new version. “Modern military technology requires power. We are specialists in the field of military power supplies.

Added Benefit for Deployed Troops

This means that the generators can also provide direct additional benefits for soldiers on missions.  A reliable power supply means reliable communication, improved situational awareness, and increased firepower – crucial factors for the safety and success of the mission. In addition, the generators help make the vehicle interior more comfortable by providing energy for air conditioning, lighting, and other comfort systems.

Whether for a light-duty armored personnel carrier or a heavy battle tank – VINCORION offers the right solution. The generators reliably supply electricity to power all onboard systems. “The generator is barely affected by changes in ambient temperature,” adds Zeitler. “In other words, it delivers peak performance at all times.”

Strict Standards and Flexibility

“The generators meet the strict MIL-STD standards, ensuring maximum reliability and safety in the field, explains Abbo Horstmann, Senior Product Manager. This means they comply with military standards regarding the quality of the onboard electrical system.

“The flexibility of VINCORION generators is also reflected in their numerous configuration options,” emphasizes Horstmann. In addition to the standard versions, VINCORION offers tailored solutions to optimally integrate the generators into the respective vehicle platforms. For example, a generator can be mechanically adapted via the anchor points – but beyond that, all the relevant parameters can also be customized via the software.

VINCORION has many years of experience and extensive expertise in developing and manufacturing generators for the defense industry. “The latest orders show us that demand for the Boxer remains high. It also shows that manufacturers of modern military technology are placing their trust in VINCORION components and are using them to equip their vehicles,” Daniel Zeitler sums up.

The generators are just one example of VINCORION’s expertise in this field; the company also supplies generators that provide mobile power to the German military, power for air defense systems such as Patriot and IRIS-T, and advanced systems such as the GTD Chaser weapon stabilization system for armored vehicles.

Defense technology and technological innovation are extremely important to Schleswig-Holstein – Vincorion serves as a prime example of a growing mid-sized company.

On Wednesday, Schleswig-Holstein’s head of state, Minister-President Daniel Günther, visited the medium-sized technology company Vincorion in Wedel. During his tour, he learned about the mid-sized enterprise’s latest technological developments and emphasized the importance of the defense industry for the German state of Schleswig-Holstein. CEO Kajetan von Mentzingen personally showed the minister-president around the company’s production facilities.

With approximately 800 employees, Vincorion is a mid-sized enterprise active in the fields of defense technology and civil and military aviation that specializes in innovative and sustainable solutions. These include, among other products, the GTD chaser weapon stabilization system, which is used in modern main battle tanks such as the Leopard 2, and the company’s new electric rescue hoist, the ERH premier, which will offer exceptionally high safety standards for air rescue operations.

“Everyone deserves to be safe – that is our vision here at Vincorion,” explained CEO von Mentzingen. “Our mission is to develop technologies that protect people in the most challenging situations and that are also innovative. With the next generation of stabilization systems and rescue hoists that we are presenting here, we are demonstrating truly cutting-edge technology.”

“Schleswig-Holstein has the potential to become a leading location for innovative and future-oriented industries,” said Minister-President Günther during his visit. “Companies like Vincorion are proof that important key technologies are being developed and produced here that both contribute to Germany’s security architecture and create economic stability and jobs.”

 

 

Safety a Key Issue

In the field of civil aviation, the company focuses on innovative solutions that prioritize safeguarding the lives of first responders and the people they are rescuing. One example of this is the ERH premier rescue hoist, which has been redesigned with safety as the top priority.

This hoist, for example, is equipped with a sophisticated feature known as backstop shock absorption, which reduces the strain on both the rescuer and the person being rescued in the event of the hoist stopping suddenly. In addition, it offers the ability to cut the cable at the push of a button in an emergency.

The company’s GTD chaser weapon stabilization system is also designed with safety in mind. This system makes it possible for the crew of an armored vehicle such as the new Leopard 2 A-RC 3.0 to remain completely inside the well-protected hull, instead of being exposed in the rotating turret. This significantly increases the soldiers’ safety, as recent conflicts have shown that drone attacks are an increasing threat.

Efficiency a Key Factor

In addition to safety, efficiency is also an important consideration for Vincorion. The company develops particularly powerful and reliable generators that optimally meet the needs of the troops. These technologies are part of VINCORION’s commitment to developing innovative and forward-looking solutions that enable the company to play an important role in the modernization of the armed forces.

“Germany aims to be the first climate-neutral industrialized country by 2040. To achieve this, policymakers, civil society, and every sector of the economy needs to pull together. Here we see that sustainability also plays a role in the defense industry,” said Minister-President Günther on the sidelines of the visit. “It is encouraging to see that companies like Vincorion are finding innovative ways to meet both safety and environmental requirements.”

 

Growth and Innovation at the Wedel Site

Vincorion is a growing company that continuously invests in research and development at its location in Wedel. The Wedel site benefits from its proximity to leading universities such as the Wedel University of Applied Sciences and the Hamburg University of Applied Sciences, both of which Vincorion works with in the areas of research and training.

“Our headquarters in Wedel is a center of innovation that pushes the boundaries of technology,” explained CEO von Mentzingen. “We not only develop products for today’s challenges, but also think about the future at the same time.”

How Government and Industry Work Together

Another key topic of the visit was the government’s role in promoting industry. Minister-President Günther emphasized that the state government would continue to work on improving the underlying conditions for companies in order to promote innovation and growth in Schleswig-Holstein.

During the visit, the question arose as to what the government could do to support small and medium-sized industrial companies. In this context, von Mentzingen mentioned topics such as improving the predictability of military procurement and accelerating the procurement process. The government could also specifically support medium-sized defense technology companies when awarding military contracts.

At the same time, von Mentzingen emphasized that the industry itself also bears responsibility, for example, by investing in research and development and ramping up production to high volumes when corresponding contracts have been awarded.

“The defense industry plays a vital role in national security, and it creates valuable jobs and strengthens technological innovation in Schleswig-Holstein. We will ensure that innovative companies like Vincorion receive the support they need to continue their work,” said Günther.

 

Shortage of Skilled Labor Presents Challenges and Opportunities

The current challenges posed by the shortage of skilled workers in the metalworking and electrical industries were also discussed during the visit. In times of a shortage of skilled workers and labor, as well as difficult collective bargaining negotiations, it is important to find solutions that benefit both sides, said the minister-president. Employees need to be offered attractive working conditions and fair wages, while at the same time, companies must remain competitive.

Vincorion also emphasized its role as an attractive employer in the region. The company plans to expand its workforce at its three German locations, in Altenstadt in Bavaria, in Essen, and in Wedel. “Vincorion is an extremely attractive employer. These new jobs are not only highly skilled, but also future-proof. We are looking for employees in a truly high-tech field who will push rescue hoist technology to its limits. These are jobs for highly qualified specialists,” explained CEO von Mentzingen.

VINCORION’s engineering skills are evident in this prototype: the 50-kilowatt version of the PGM low emissions power generator was unveiled in Koblenz on Wednesday, September 4, 2024.

The pre-series model of the new genset for the German Armed Forces was demonstrated for the first time at the “RÜ.NET” trade fair in Koblenz. RÜ.NET is a major event at which the German Armed Forces and industry exchange information on various topics in the sector. It takes place in Koblenz.

With the new power generator, the engineers at VINCORION have created a genset that meets the high requirements of the armed forces in mobile operations and at the same time has a number of unique selling points: These include tactical advantages through greater energy efficiency and lower fuel consumption, as well as reducing the burden on personnel through simple operation. This technology can meet the growing energy requirements of modern armed forces.

Tactical advantages through low consumption

The 50-kilowatt prototype was presented to the public by Daniel Zeitler, Head of Strategy and Product Management, together with Martin Eisenschmid, Director Business Development and Sales. “The highlights of this genset for the Bundeswehr are that it enables interconnected operation as a so-called modular grid, but also the exhaust gas aftertreatment for low-emission operation and the innovative control system including new energy management,” said Daniel Zeitler.

“Our team has carried out intensive development work to ensure that the SEA prototype meets the high requirements of the German Armed Forces,” explained Martin Eisenschmid. He demonstrated on site how the device, with its user-friendly technology, shows the operating status at all times, for example via a display.

The aim is clear: to relieve users as much as possible of the burden of operating the power supply, freeing up personnel for other tasks. Training and maintenance costs are also reduced and the devices can be put into operation more quickly. “Although we are introducing a completely new technology with the battery storage systems, operation requires less training and expertise than before thanks to a highly automated and standardized control system,” says Zeitler. Such technology is not readily available on the market, he emphasizes, and is specially tailored to the requirements of the armed forces in action. This includes, for example, reduced noise emissions – which lead to tactical advantages. But it also improves occupational safety and environmental protection.

Breakthrough: The Emission-Downgrade-Technology

The generators can run in combination, regardless of whether devices with 50 or 200 kilowatts of power are used – and with modern battery storage systems. Coupling to renewable energy systems such as photovoltaic modules is also possible. Finally, the genset can be connected to the power grid – in this case, no fuel would be consumed at all.

“The emission downgrade technology was a decisive breakthrough,” Zeitler noted.  In regular operation, the diesel engine is used with the Stage V class. There is also the “emission downgrade” mode, with which all NATO fuels can be used, including those that are contaminated. This would make it possible, for example, to operate abroad in the case of an alliance. If the gensets are coupled with the battery storage system, energy efficiency can be greatly increased. “This saves fuel, which in turn is a major tactical advantage,” explained Zeitler. Last but not least: the gensets offer a high degree of mobility, as there are standardized transport interfaces with ISO mounts. In the case of the 50-kilowatt genset, this is a 10-foot container.

Backbone of the modern mobile power supply

A key advantage of the SEA prototype is therefore its environmental friendliness. The generator emits up to 30 percent less CO₂ thanks to its lower consumption and coupling with storage systems. This supports the Bundeswehr on its path to climate neutrality and shows that efficient energy supply and environmental protection can go hand in hand.

Whether deployed in Europe or abroad, the Bundeswehr requires a secure energy supply. Obsolescence management, i.e. the timely replacement of parts over many years of operation, was an important criterion in the decision in favor of VINCORION, alongside environmental protection. The technology company relies on a high level of vertical integration and also guarantees the integration of future interfaces. For example, the same VINCORION software with its own controllers is used in the PGM and ESM – which can be a major advantage in the event of bottlenecks in the supply chain.

 

The technology company VINCORION, headquartered in Wedel, Germany, is growing rapidly and plans to significantly expand its workforce. Due to numerous new orders, particularly in the defense and civil aviation sectors, the company will significantly expand its production capacities at all three of its locations in Germany.

“The security situation in Europe and around the world has changed,” said Kajetan von Mentzingen, CEO of VINCORION, explaining the current situation. He emphasized that the Zeitenwende (“new era”) in Germany had not only finally been embraced by politicians, but also by society. This is also leading to increased interest in VINCORION’s working environment. “People understand the importance of our country’s defense capabilities,” von Mentzingen added.

The company’s strong performance is reflected in a number of areas. VINCORION recently presented a new generation of weapon stabilizers for battle tanks and armored personnel carriers. In addition, the company recently signed important contracts for the supply of generators for the Boxer armored personnel carrier and for the maintenance of the Patriot air defense system.

“Ukraine has shown that heavy battle tanks remain indispensable in combined arms combat,” said Sascha Brüning, Vice President Business Development & Sales at VINCORION, emphasizing the importance of these developments. He explained that VINCORION had been awarded key contracts in the wake of recent orders for battle tanks, including the equipment for 54 Leopard 2 A8 tanks for Norway. “Further deliveries for Germany and partner countries are already on the books, amounting to a total of more than 500 system deliveries in the coming years,” added Brüning.

Plans to hire 80 new employees

To manage this growth, VINCORION plans to hire around 80 new employees by the end of the year. The company is particularly looking for specialists in the fields of engineering, technology, and business, as well as in the commercial and technical sectors.

“The defense industry requires highly qualified employees,” said Nina Römhild, VINCORION’s head of HR, explaining the challenges and opportunities of recruiting. At the same time, however, she emphasized that the company was successful in attracting new specialists. “Our attractive working conditions, competitive salaries, and extensive training opportunities win over many candidates,” Römhild explained. She pointed to the high recommendation rate and the company’s above-average rating on Kununu as proof of employee satisfaction.

VINCORION, with approximately 800 employees in Germany, including roughly 30 vocational trainees, sees itself well equipped to meet the challenges of growth and to further expand its contribution to Europe’s security.