Israel Receives Approval to Expand Engine Order for ‘Eitan’ APCs
Expanded engine order underscores growing defense ties and battlefield readiness
Photo: IDF Spokesperson's Unit
Israel has received approval to expand its order of engines for the ‘Eitan’ armored personnel carriers (APCs), according to an announcement by the U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA). The agency, which is responsible for promoting foreign military sales on behalf of the U.S. government, reported the deal to the U.S. Congress and the State Department following its recent approval.
According to a report by Janes, the original engine order for the ‘Eitan’ APCs amounted to $85.5 million. In light of the increasing demand for mobile and advanced systems on the battlefield, Israel has expanded the order to a total of $180 million. This amount includes not only the supply of the engines themselves but also spare parts and related services.
The DSCA stated that the prime contractor for the engine supply project is Rolls-Royce Solutions America, a subsidiary of MTU, a leading engine manufacturer. The engine in question is the eight-cylinder version from the 199 series of diesel engines, intended for armored combat vehicles (ACVs), including the Boxer APCs produced by Rheinmetall.
This is not the first time the agency has approved Rolls-Royce America to manufacture and supply APC engines to Israel. The move reflects the close defense cooperation between the two countries and the U.S.’s commitment to supporting Israel’s defense capabilities.
The ‘Eitan’ APC is an eight-wheeled armored combat vehicle developed by the Merkava and Armored Vehicles Directorate of Israel’s Ministry of Defense. The advanced APC has entered active service in recent years and took part in intense combat during the Iron Swords War.
It is equipped with an unmanned turret featuring a 30mm automatic cannon, 40mm grenade launchers, and a MAG machine gun. Its ability to reach speeds of up to 90 km/h, combined with its firepower and armor, makes it a valuable asset on the modern battlefield. The expansion of engine supply will ensure the availability of these APCs in the coming years and support the operations of forces in the field.
