Bronze medal for VINCORION apprentice: Johannes Lang shines at German championships. Young professional from Burggen ranks among the top three electronics technicians for machine and drive technology in Germany.

Johannes Lang, an apprentice at VINCORION in Altenstadt, won the bronze medal at the 74th German Championships for Electrical Trades. In the profession of ‘electronics technician for machine and drive technology’, the apprentice prevailed against competition from across Germany. This means that the apprentice from Burggen in the Upper Bavarian district of Weilheim-Schongau is one of the three best young professionals in Germany.

From 13 to 15 November, 43 regional champions winners competed against each other at the Federal Technology Centre for Electrical Engineering and Information Technology (BFE) in Oldenburg. They demonstrated their skills in six disciplines and solved challenging exam tasks. On Saturday evening, the results were announced at a gala evening attended by around 250 guests in the Weser-Ems-Halle in Oldenburg.

 

Johannes Lang had already won the competition from the local chamber of commerce and then went on to win the Bavarian state competition in Bamberg. As a result, VINCORION was recognised as an exemplary training company by the Munich and Upper Bavaria Chamber of Skilled Trades.

“I am proud of the bronze medal and grateful for the excellent training I received at VINCORION,” says Johannes Lang. “The standard at the championships was very high – so it’s all the more wonderful that it was enough to make it onto the podium.”

Karl Schuster, team leader at VINCORION, emphasises: “Johannes earned this award through his commitment and enthusiasm for his profession. As the current team leader, I am delighted to have such talented individuals in my team – he seizes every opportunity to improve and develop professionally. The bronze medal is a great success for him and for VINCORION.” Special thanks go to Julian Haggenmiller, trainer for mechanical and drive technology, for his commitment to training.

Nina Römhild, Head of Human Resources at VINCORION, emphasises: “The bronze medal for Johannes is confirmation of our training philosophy: we enable young people to learn and develop in a challenging technical environment. The fact that he is one of the best young talents in Germany makes us proud as a company.”

The German Championships for Electrical Trades are among the most important competitions for young talent in the industry. Following the reorganisation of the electrical trades in 2021, this year’s championships included five professions for the first time.

VINCORION currently trains around 50 young people in various technical professions at its three German locations in Wedel, Altenstadt and Essen.

Longer operating times with stable and reliable genset operation offer a distinct advantage: fewer refueling trips and therefore fewer targets for attack. The technology company VINCORION is now introducing the next generation of power supply systems for air defense systems used worldwide, such as PATRIOT. These next-gen systems significantly reduce logistical dependencies, thereby increasing armed forces’ operational superiority. At the project kick-off conference in Altenstadt, the company presented its innovative solution together with the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA).

Tactical Advantages Through Energy Self-Sufficiency

“To us, next-gen means systems that can run for longer and require less vulnerable logistics chains,” emphasized Kajetan von Mentzingen, CEO of VINCORION. “These systems enable armed forces to dramatically increase their operational readiness. And that is precisely our goal here at VINCORION – because everyone deserves to be safe.”

The figures speak for themselves: the adapted hybrid power supply reduces the number of required refueling operations by two-thirds – from 72 to just 24 times per day per battalion. “Our system can eliminate over a third of the extremely high-risk fuel transport trips,” explained Daniel Zeitler, Head of Product Management at VINCORION. “The less you rely on an external supply of energy, the longer you maintain operational freedom in the field.”

The technical improvements to the system significantly increase combat effectiveness – maintenance intervals are up to four times longer thanks to an optimized hybrid architecture, while downtime for maintenance itself has also been reduced by more than 80%. “This means that PATRIOT systems remain operational for longer periods without interruption and require significantly fewer service personnel,” noted Alexander Ackerman, Program Manager for Ground Based Air Defense. “This significantly increases the resilience of our system.”

Entire Power Supply Developed in Germany

VINCORION supplies the entire power supply for the PATRIOT system’s main components: The Electric Power Plant (EPP) supplies power to the radar and Engagement Control Station (ECS) via two 150-kilowatt gensets. The Electric Power Unit (EPU) supplies power to the Information Coordination Central (ICC) via two 30-kilowatt units. And the Launching Station (LS) receives 15 kW from a genset in the smallest power class.

“This technology, which is manufactured here in Bavaria, shows how innovative power systems increase the operational capabilities of our armed forces,” said Tobias Gotthardt, Bavarian State Secretary for Economic Affairs, Regional Development, and Energy. “VINCORION develops key technologies here that enable European defense forces to achieve operational superiority.”

NATO-Wide Procurement Strengthens European Security Architecture

The NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) has signed a framework agreement with VINCORION to modernize PATRIOT power supply systems to state-of-the-art standards through obsolescence mitigation. The order is initially valued at 60 million euros. The NATO countries investing in the project are Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden, Romania, and Poland, and it is scheduled to be implemented from 2025 to 2030.

“This partnership is enhancing interoperability and standardization within NATO,” explained von Mentzingen. “If all PATRIOT user states operate with the same power technology, it will significantly increase joint operational capability.”

“This framework contract reflects NSPA’s commitment to building long-term partnerships with the industry in support of NATO’s operational readiness. By delivering these innovative power solutions, we will contribute to operational capability, while supporting the defence industry in Europe,” said Stacy Cummings, NSPA General Manager.

New Hybrid Technology Offers Tactical Benefits

VINCORION engineers are highly familiar with air defense technology. The company already manufactures components for two of the three main systems that form the European Sky Shield, namely PATRIOT and IRIS-T. “We develop the technology that enables these systems to operate completely independently of public infrastructure,” explained Zeitler.

The next-gen system brings further advantages, such as cutting fuel consumption by 48%. “When you consider that air defense systems have to be up and running 24 hours a day, this is a factor that shouldn’t be underestimated,” noted Zeitler. The systems can also be connected to renewable energy sources such as solar panels and feature integrated battery storage for peak loads. However, thanks to a significant degree of automation, considerably fewer personnel are required for setup, operation, and maintenance.

Center of Excellence for Military Power Supply

For Daniel Zeitler, one thing is certain: “Our Altenstadt site is developing into a European center of excellence for military power supply.” This is because in addition to the next-gen systems for NATO, the new power generators for the Bundeswehr, which were ordered by Germany’s Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology, and In-Service Support (BAAINBw), are also being developed here.

VINCORION currently has approximately 900 employees at locations in Germany and the United States and generated over 200 million euros in revenue in 2024. VINCORION is a technology company that specializes in innovative power systems for safety-critical applications. As a partner to the aviation, security, and defense industries, VINCORION develops and manufactures solutions tailored to its customers’ specific requirements.

VINCORION strengthens manufacturing capabilities through cooperation with engineering experts. HEIDELBERG contributes extensive manufacturing depth and industrialisation competency. The strategic partnership is intended to reinforce Germany’s technological sovereignty.

VINCORION SE, a specialist in energy systems for safety-critical applications, has entered a strategic partnership with Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG (HEIDELBERG). Under a Memorandum of Understanding, both companies have agreed on multi-year collaboration that is intended to be expanded further and strengthen industrial capability and supply security in the defence sector.

Through this cooperation, HEIDELBERG is entering the defence market with the development, industrialisation and manufacturing of energy regulation and distribution systems for VINCORION. Both companies are thereby contributing to strengthening technological sovereignty and securing domestic value chains.

Established technology leader for critical systems

VINCORION has more than 60 years’ experience in developing and manufacturing state-of-the-art energy systems deployed in civilian and military applications. Additionally, the company develops cutting-edge technology such as rescue hoists for helicopters.

„The partnership with VINCORION represents a milestone for HEIDELBERG and underlines our capability as a technology company to efficiently industrialise complex products. HEIDELBERG seeks to increasingly position itself as a reliable partner in security-relevant sectors,“ said Jürgen Otto, Chief Executive Officer of HEIDELBERG. “HEIDELBERG combines technological competency with reliable manufacturing at German facilities – an important step towards greater technological independence and strengthening the industrial base.”

Strategic alliance for technological sovereignty

„This partnership unites two German technology leaders with complementary strengths,” explains Kajetan von Mentzingen, Managing Director of VINCORION. „HEIDELBERG brings outstanding industrialisation competency and scaling capabilities. Together we can strengthen Europe’s technological sovereignty in a strategically important area whilst simultaneously expanding our international competitiveness.“

Extensive manufacturing depth in Germany

HEIDELBERG’s objective is to establish itself as a reliable supplier of high-quality products and gradually expand this role within the defence industry. HEIDELBERG covers essential value-creation competencies with its technologies. These include hardware and software development, electronic component manufacturing, mechanical processing, foundry technology, and assembly in heavy engineering of highly complex plants and systems. HEIDELBERG is thus an experienced end-to-end system partner including spare parts supply and service. Particular added value lies in the capability for rapid scaling through utilisation of existing infrastructure and capacities.

„With the VINCORION project, we are bringing our industrial competency into defence for the first time,” said Michael Wellenzohn, Head of HEIDELBERG Industry. „HEIDELBERG, with its competencies and infrastructure, is a serious partner in heavy engineering with short-term scaling capabilities.”

15389 15389

About VINCORION:

VINCORION is a dynamically growing technology company focusing on innovative energy systems in safety-critical applications. As a partner to the aerospace, security and defence industries, VINCORION develops and manufactures solutions for its customers’ specific requirements. With over 900 employees at locations in Germany and the USA, VINCORION is optimally positioned for continued growth.

About HEIDELBERG:

Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG (HEIDELBERG) is a leading technology company that has stood for innovation, quality and reliability in mechanical engineering worldwide for 175 years. With a clear focus on growth, HEIDELBERG as a total provider drives development in the core areas of packaging and digital printing, software solutions and lifecycle business with service and consumables, enabling customers to achieve maximum productivity. Furthermore, the company focuses on expanding new business fields in industrial business such as high-precision plant construction with integrated control systems, automation technology and robotics. Due to strong international presence in around 170 countries, the creativity and competency of its approximately 9,500 employees, proprietary production facilities in Europe, China and the USA, and one of the largest global sales and service networks, the company is optimally positioned for future growth.

15389 15389

 

 

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 

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 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.

 

 

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 tactical 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 PGM tactical, 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 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 and the innovative control system including new energy management,” said Daniel Zeitler.

“Our team has carried out intensive development work to ensure that the 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 energy storage module, 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.

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 energy storage module. 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. “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

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. 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.

 

At the Eurosatory trade show in Paris, the German technology company VINCORION officially presented its new GTD chaser weapon stabilization system as ready for large-scale production.

The stabilization technology GTD chaser ensures that the gun in modern armored vehicles such as the LEOPARD 2 and the Puma always remains precisely aligned with the target, even at high speeds and when moving over rough terrain. The product’s modular design supports innovative system architectures such as the Leopard 2 A-RC 3.0 presented at the trade show.

“With GTD chaser, the gunner can precisely engage their targets, even under the most difficult conditions – maximizing the probability of a first hit,” said Sascha Brüning, Vice President Business Development and Sales at VINCORION, at the presentation of the system at the trade show in Paris.

Preconfigured Modules for a Wide Range of Applications

The GTD chaser system is based on preconfigured and prequalified components and modules and offers a number of advantages, such as its ability to be adapted to the needs of the user and the configuration of the vehicle. The core components and modules are fully ready for large-scale production – enabling them to be adapted to new vehicles extremely quickly, such as the latest generation of the LEOPARD 2. Those who opt for the system benefit from a future-proof architecture that can be upgraded quickly and cost-effectively at any time.  Furthermore, data-based maintenance and optimized obsolescence management also reduce life cycle costs.

“With the GTD chaser electronics and the corresponding innovative drive systems, it is possible to build unmanned turrets for main battle tanks that are extremely powerful, offer enormous safety benefits for the crew, and can fire three shots in just ten seconds thanks to the additional integration of an autoloader,” said Brüning, explaining the possibilities offered by GTD chaser.

Drive System, Stabilization, and Power Electronics

“At VINCORION, we manufacture numerous important components for the LEOPARD 2: the turret and gun drives, the gun’s aiming and stabilization system, and the power electronics,” said Brüning. The generator for the tank’s approximately 1500 hp diesel engine also comes from the company.

VINCORION has acquired important contracts as part of the latest orders for main battle tanks – for example, 54 LEOPARD 2 A8 tanks will be delivered to NATO partner Norway. This will be the first time that GTD chaser stabilization technology is used in large-scale production. Further deliveries for Germany and partner countries are already confirmed in the order pipeline, translating to more than 120 system deliveries over the next three years, accompanied by numerous other options and opportunities on the market.

System Constantly Compensates for Vehicle Movements

The unparalleled precision offered by the electronic and mechanical systems in GTD chaser can only be achieved with a fast-reacting drive motor for the turret and gun, noted Daniel Zeitler, Head of Product Management at VINCORION. Highly complex control technology and software process, interpret, and use the data from the position and movement sensors. According to Zeitler, the precise interaction of sensor technology, data processing, drive electronics, and the drives is crucial: “This allows the large mass of the turret and, in particular, the barrel to be controlled precisely and at maximum speed. The system needs to continuously and directly compensate for vehicle movement and recoil from the shot in order to precisely aim at the target.”

This is achieved by the power electronics that VINCORION supplies for the tanks. “A lot of computing power, sensors, and energy are required to make the tank’s gun turret rotate and the weapon elevate and lower,” noted Zeitler. That is why the company is convinced that it is supplying a gun aiming and stabilization system that can be considered the best in the world. But VINCORION components are not only found in the LEOPARD 2 – VINCORION technology can also be found in the Puma’s electronic and mechanical systems, which enable a firing angle of minus 10 to plus 45 degrees. This also applies to the Panzerhaubitze 2000.

Technical Background: Details of GTD chaser

The GTD chaser product family has a wide range of applications in light and heavy combat vehicles. It includes a variety of drive systems – from spindles to spur gears – for the mechanical interfaces. It is designed to be reliable and cost-optimized over the entire life cycle. “This gives it the edge that our customers value,” explained Zeitler.

The system is optimized for use in a military environment. It is also equipped with a redundant emergency drive that can be operated either mechanically or electrically. Highlighting the advantages of the system, Brüning noted that: “Our product has low life cycle costs. Its extreme reliability and low maintenance requirements reduce TCO.”

“With the new modular GTD chaser system kit, VINCORION is ready for every requirement and challenge related to future aiming and stabilization systems, especially with regard to new developments for main battle tanks from the major OEMs,” emphasized Dennis Hunold, Senior Product Manager. This is also demonstrated by customer KNDS’ upgrade program for the LEOPARD 2 to unmanned turret technology and design.

“The overall concept can only be implemented at all thanks to the use of a revolutionary weapon storage system, suitable drives, and the high-performance electronics from GTD chaser. Weight and size are significantly reduced. The crew is protected in the best possible way, whereby the effectiveness of the main battle tank against targets is maximized,” stressed Hunold.