Tailored Engine Solutions for the Defense Sector
With Cat Defense engines, Zeppelin Power Systems provides robust and powerful diesel engines that excel where maximum performance and reliability are essential.
Ranging from 242 kW (325 bhp) to over 746 kW (1,000 bhp), our specially developed engines cover a wide application spectrum—from transport vehicles and infantry fighting vehicles to mobile support systems. Their combination of exceptional torque, outstanding durability, and customized configuration options makes them the first choice for military applications under extreme conditions.
In addition, our Cat industrial engines cover standardized applications within the defense environment, particularly for support and infrastructure tasks. They are reliable, cost-efficient, and ideally suited for use in field camps, workshops, or mobile support systems.
As an experienced general contractor, we support projects from development through decades of operational service – backed worldwide by our extensive services.
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Key benefits for your organization
Maximum Power & Torque
Our Cat engines deliver extreme power outputs from 242 to over 740 kW, combined with very high torque, ensuring dependable propulsion even in heavily armored vehicles and the harshest operational environments.
Customized Solutions
Each engine can be individually configured to meet the project’s specific requirements, from specialized turbocharger setups to bespoke design adaptations. The result: propulsion systems precisely matched to the needs of our customers.
Robust Design for Extreme Conditions
Built for maximum resilience, the engines perform reliably under dust, heat, cold, vibration, and extreme climatic conditions – without the need for sensitive exhaust aftertreatment systems.
Ease of Maintenance & Long Life Cycles
Thanks to their intelligent design, the engines are straightforward to maintain and service. This ensures reliable performance over decades – an essential advantage for long-term defense projects.
Global Service Network
Through the international Caterpillar service network, spare parts, maintenance, and support are available anytime, anywhere, guaranteeing high availability and operational readiness worldwide.
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Maximum Performance and Reliability in Defense Applications

Uncompromising Propulsion Power for the Defense Sector
With Cat Defense engines, Zeppelin Power Systems delivers powerful and tailored propulsion solutions for military vehicles and mobile systems. Covering a performance range from 242 to over 740 kW, these engines support applications from light transport vehicles to heavily armored tracked vehicles. With high torque and rugged design, they ensure mobility even under extreme conditions such as dusty deserts, arctic cold, tropical heat, or challenging terrain.
Our Cat Defense engines are not standard products but individually engineered solutions precisely tailored to the specific requirements of the defense sector. Whether it’s customized power curves, alternative turbocharger configurations, or reinforced adaptations for armored vehicles, each system is designed to deliver maximum performance, durability, and reliability under the most demanding conditions.
Our defense portfolio is complemented by a wide range of proven Caterpillar industrial engines, which can be flexibly configured for various military and logistical applications. The result is a portfolio of scalable propulsion solutions suited for both tactical and infrastructural missions – from robust field systems to mobile energy units.
Operational Fields and Applications
The applications of Cat defense engines are diverse: High power reserves and robustness ensure reliable mobility in armored vehicles, even under heavy protection. In military transport vehicles, flexible power settings provide transport capacity across any terrain – from troop transport to supply missions. For heavy tracked vehicles ranging from 20 to 70 tons, such as recovery or engineer tanks, the engines deliver the extreme torque required for maximum traction and propulsion. In addition, customized solutions are developed for special-purpose vehicles, including reconnaissance, specialized equipment, or mission-specific platforms.
Contact us to learn more about Cat Defense propulsion systems for military vehicles and mobile platforms.
Our portfolio includes the Cat C7.1 engine (242–269 kW), designed for lighter specialized vehicles, as well as the Cat C9.3B engine (336–447 kW), which is ideally suited for medium platforms such as military transporters. At the upper end of the performance range, the Cat C13D engine (597–746 kW) delivers exceptional output, making it a reliable choice even for heavily armored vehicles and tracked platforms.
| Engine Type | Datasheet | Power in kW (hp) | Liter | Cylinders | Aspiration | Speed range RPM | Max. torque in Nm (lb-ft) | Max. speed RPM | Emissions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C7.1 | 242 (325) - 269 (360) | 7.01 | 6 | T | 2,300 | 1,360 (1,003) - 1,423 (1,050) | 1,440 | EU III / Unregulated | |
| C9.3B | 336 (450) - 447 (600) | 9.3 | 6 | T | 2,300 | 1,899 (1,401) - 2,265 (1,670) | 1,400 | EU III / Unregulated | |
| C13D | 597 (800) - 746 (1,000) | 12.9 | 6 | T | 2,300 | 2,990 (2,206) - 3,770 (2,780) | 1,400 | Low BSFC / EU III / Unregulated |
Do you have questions about our Defense engines? We are happy to advise you.
From Analysis to Service: Defense Propulsion Solutions by Zeppelin Power Systems
With extensive experience in the defense sector and deep technical expertise, Zeppelin Power Systems offers not just engines, but holistic propulsion solutions for military vehicles and mobile systems. From initial analysis and individual customization to worldwide service, we support our customers throughout every project phase, ensuring propulsion systems remain reliable in operation for decades to come.
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- Concept Development
- Project Engineering
Engineering
- Electrical & Installation Planning
- Process Technology
- CAD-based Planning
Project Management
- Site Management
- Technical Procurement
- Quality Assurance
Plant Construction
- Electrical Installation
- Assembly
- Commissioning and Test Run
Service
- Maintenance
- Routine Servicing
- Troubleshooting Service
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