Next-generation energy systems make NATO air defense more resilient
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 for sustainable defense 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.”
Agreed on close cooperation in Altenstadt (from left): Norbert Lederle, Christopher Tschischka, Alexander Ackerman (all VINCORION) with Kristin Doolittle, Siegfried Schneider, and Clayton Corley (all NSPA) and Martin Eisenschmid (VINCORION)
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 highly efficient 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 and sustainability, while supporting the defence industry in Europe,” said Stacy Cummings, NSPA General Manager.
New Hybrid Technology Offers Performance and Sustainability 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’s increased efficiency brings further advantages in addition to tactical ones, such as cutting fuel consumption by 48% and thereby reducing carbon emissions accordingly. “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. “This proves that operational excellence and environmental protection can go hand in hand.” 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.
Media contact:
VINCORION:
Florian Hanauer, PR-Manager
VINCORION Advanced Systems
Tel: +49 4103 60-2250
E-Mail: florian.hanauer@vincorion.com
NSPA:
Francesca De Florio, Chief Communications Officer,
NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA)
E-Mail: francesca.deflorio@nspa.nato.int
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 Advanced Systems GmbH, 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 sustainably 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.”
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 and efficiency. 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, as well as growing Green Technologies. 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.
Media Contact:
Florian Hanauer
PR Manager
VINCORION Advanced Systems
Feldstraße 155
22880 Wedel
Tel. +49 4103 60 – 2250
Mail: florian.hanauer@vincorion.com
