Advancing UK Aerospace, Defence, Security & Space Solutions Worldwide
  • Home
  • /
  • Defence
  • /
  • Cummins ISL9 achieves new 536HP rating for defence applications

Defence Events

Cummins ISL9 achieves new 536HP rating for defence applications

Cummins has announced that its ISL9 diesel engine is now available up to 536 hp for fast response defence applications

Displayed on Cummins stand at the DSEI show, the ISL9 is already proven in a wide variety of equipment such as armoured vehicles, military trucks and infantry fighting vehicles manufactured by OEMs worldwide. 

“Cummins invests heavily in state of the art engineering test cells which simulate the harsh conditions the engine is exposed to in theatre. Balancing key technologies such as combustion, turbocharging, fuel systems and electronic calibrations allows us to develop the best solution for our customers. This has enabled us to develop the ISL9 engine to a new peak power output of 536hp for military use,” said Nigel Chisman, Defence Marketing Manager.

Advertisement
PTC rectangle

Cummins ISL9 is a light weight, compact and fuel efficient 8.9 litre engine. It offers distinct advantages to global vehicle manufacturers, with a simplified engine architecture that reduces complexity for ease of installation. For operators it provides high performance with low operating costs and excellent reliability with less parts that could fail.

The ISL9 has developed a strong reputation in automotive, construction and mining use. Cummins has drawn on the knowledge and experience gained from these markets to fully optimize the 9 litre engine, increasing power by 34%.  Torque capability is also increased up to 1,900 Nm.  The optimization of key performance parts and the integration of Cummins HE500 Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT) has been key in achieving this improvement.

The VGT has a unique patented one-piece sliding-nozzle design which precisely adjusts the airflow delivered to the engine.  It combines the benefits of a small and a large turbocharger in a single unit.  The sliding nozzle varies the exhaust gas flow into the turbine wheel to provide rapid boost at low engine rpm and then maintain high boost at higher rpm.

Advertisement
ODU RT

“With the new 536hp rating Cummins offers improved engine response time for demanding gradients and tough terrain in challenging climates.  The higher power capability allows vehicles to carry a heavier load; more people, more equipment and more armoury on the vehicle. All without experiencing a reduction in power and speed,” added Chisman.

Wellingborough based Cummins UK supports Cummins engines and generators in operation through aftermarket parts and service support.

Advertisement
FIA2026 animated banner
BAE Systems partners with Knightec Group Brazil on vehicle component

Defence

BAE Systems partners with Knightec Group Brazil on vehicle component

20 March 2026

BAE Systems Hägglunds – the Swedish makers of the BvS10 and CV90 military vehicles – has begun working with Knightec Group Brazil (formerly Semcon Brazil), transferring technology and creating jobs in Resende, Rio de Janeiro.

Rotron acquired by Ondas

Defence

Rotron acquired by Ondas

20 March 2026

UK-based advanced defence technology company, Rotron Aerospace Ltd, today announced the completion of its acquisition by Ondas Inc.

Babcock awarded MoD white fleet management contract

Defence

Babcock awarded MoD white fleet management contract

19 March 2026

Babcock has been awarded a five-year contract by the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) for the service and management of its white fleet of vehicles, including cars, vans, trucks and specialist vehicles.

Anti-drone tech patents surge

Aerospace Defence Security

Anti-drone tech patents surge

19 March 2026

The number of patent applications for anti-drone (counter-UAV) technologies filed globally increased by 27% to 126 last year*, up from 99 the year before, according to new research from intellectual property (IP) law firm Mathys & Squire.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Marshall Aerospace secures five SAIL Mark projects

Aerospace Defence Security

Marshall Aerospace secures five SAIL Mark projects

18 March 2026

Marshall Aerospace is advancing its expertise in the UK’s fast-growing unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) sector after securing five separate SAIL Mark assessment projects funded by Innovate UK and the Department for Transport.

UK engineers advance innovative way to tackle drone threats

Defence Security

UK engineers advance innovative way to tackle drone threats

18 March 2026

A team of UK based engineers is developing a new way of eliminating hostile drones.

Advertisement
PTC rectangle
Advertisement
Gulfstream banner