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
ODU RT

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
Leonardo animated rectangle

“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
General Atomics LB
Autonomous submarine Excalibur delivered to Royal Navy

Defence

Autonomous submarine Excalibur delivered to Royal Navy

12 December 2025

Excalibur, a 12-metre experimental uncrewed underwater vessel, has now been officially handed over to the Royal Navy.

UK launches new Military Intelligence Services

Defence

UK launches new Military Intelligence Services

12 December 2025

Today, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) launched the new Military Intelligence Services (MIS), designed to ensure UK military intelligence is more efficient and better able to anticipate future threats.

BAE Systems awarded US Navy contract for APKWS laser-guidance kits

Defence

BAE Systems awarded US Navy contract for APKWS laser-guidance kits

11 December 2025

The US Navy has awarded BAE Systems a new five-year, indefinite delivery, indefinite quantity contract for APKWS laser-guidance kits to equip US armed forces with tens of thousands of additional low-cost precision munitions.

JFD Global to enhance Polish Navy

Defence Security

JFD Global to enhance Polish Navy's submarine rescue capability

11 December 2025

James Fisher (JFD Global) has secured a contract with PGZ Stocznia Wojenna, which will see JFD Global integrate a combined, hyperbaric and saturation diving system into the Polish Navy’s new salvage and rescue vessel, Ratownik.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Avon Protection receives European order for FM50 respirators

Defence Security

Avon Protection receives European order for FM50 respirators

11 December 2025

Avon Protection has received a new European order for FM50 respirators and FM61EU filters via the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) contract vehicle.

BAE Systems to modernise USS Forrest Sherman

Defence

BAE Systems to modernise USS Forrest Sherman

10 December 2025

BAE Systems has received a $123 million contract from the US Navy to modernise the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Forrest Sherman (DDG 98).

Advertisement
Leonardo animated rectangle