Rolls-Royce has been awarded a significant contract by defence group KNDS to supply more than 300 mtu MB 873 Ka-501 engines. These powerful drive systems are destined for new Leopard 2 main battle tanks ordered by a coalition of European nations, including Germany, Lithuania, Sweden, the Netherlands, and the Czech Republic. Deliveries are scheduled to commence in 2026.
The order represents one of the largest of its kind in recent decades. Dr. Jörg Stratmann, CEO of Rolls-Royce Power Systems AG, stated that it reflects the current challenging security environment. In response to heightened demand, the company has recently and will continue to significantly expand its capacity for developing and producing critical military drive systems, aiming to bolster security in Europe and globally.
This increased demand is directly linked to the changed threat landscape. Government defence business, primarily supplying NATO and allied armies, already constituted a quarter of the Rolls-Royce Power Systems division’s turnover last year. Knut Müller, Senior Vice President for Government Business, noted the order underscores the high confidence European land forces place in the Leopard 2 platform, which is widely seen as the benchmark for heavy combat vehicles—due in no small part to its reliable mtu propulsion. Rolls-Royce committed to supporting the vast Leopard fleet with complete drive systems and spare parts for the long term, while simultaneously developing next-generation propulsion for future armoured vehicles.
The engines will power the latest Leopard 2A8 model, which features enhanced armour and improved protection against drone threats. In parallel, Rolls-Royce is broadening its military land systems portfolio. This includes expanding its proven mtu 199 engine series with new variants delivering over 1,300 kW of power, catering to both new vehicle programmes and upgrade projects for existing fleets.
