Auxiliary Power Unit – A141F

Auxiliary Power Unit (APU – YGÜ) is a critical power system that enables the electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic systems of military vehicles to operate without the need to run the main engine. It is used during pre-mission preparation phases for weapon and system testing, cooling of the main engine, and keeping onboard systems active. In situations where the main engine is shut down or damaged, the APU ensures the continued operation of selected systems, thereby preserving the vehicle’s operational capability.

APU systems increase operational continuity by supplying the required energy to military vehicles in deployment areas where no fixed power source is available. For this reason, they have become an indispensable component of modern military platforms.

Platform and System Integration
NERO Industry develops, manufactures, and delivers auxiliary power units and subsystems for tracked and wheeled military vehicles, as well as for fixed and airborne platforms. These platforms include main battle tanks (MBT), self-propelled howitzers (SPH), armored and infantry fighting vehicles (AFV/IFV), armored personnel carriers (APC), MRAP vehicles, tactical and tactical support vehicles, service and auxiliary support vehicles, rocket systems, shelters, tents, helicopters, and aircraft.

Increasing Demand for APU Usage
The demand for auxiliary power units in military vehicles continues to grow, particularly due to the increasing number of high-power electronic systems. APU systems enable vehicles to operate in silent mode with low acoustic and thermal signatures, reduce main engine operating time, and lower fuel consumption and operating costs. Thanks to their low life-cycle cost, the return on investment period is relatively short.

APUs developed by NERO Industry are available with internal or external mounting options and offer power outputs ranging from 2 kW to 20 kW. In addition to 24/28 VDC output, they can provide high AC and DC voltages. Depending on the application, the systems are based on air-cooled or liquid-cooled diesel engines.

APUs can be used as standalone units or integrated with NERO life support systems (LSS-APU) that include NBC/CBRN protection and HVAC functions.

Advantages of NERO APU Systems
NERO APU systems are designed for heavy-duty automotive use under harsh terrain and dusty environments. They maintain performance under extreme temperatures and high-altitude conditions. The systems can be operated both when the vehicle is stationary and while in motion. Their compact design allows easy vehicle integration and full compatibility with vehicle fuel and control systems.

One of the distinguishing features of these systems is their ability to operate in co-generation mode together with the vehicle’s main generator. This capability allows existing power shortages to be compensated by APU support without the need to upgrade the main generator.

Areas of Use
Auxiliary Power Units are used in armored combat vehicles to support high-power electrical and hydraulic systems, conduct pre-mission system tests, and perform main engine cooling. To reduce noise and heat, APUs can be installed in insulated compartments within the vehicle or externally. They are also used in mobile radar systems, communication systems, and target detection applications.

Types of APUs
APUs used in military vehicles are generally classified into two main categories: diesel-powered and gas turbine-powered systems. Diesel APUs are widely preferred due to their low fuel consumption, high efficiency, and long service life. Gas turbine APUs, while more compact and lighter, have higher fuel consumption. Power capacities and designs can be customized according to the operational requirements of the vehicle.

Technical Characteristics
APU systems are characterized by high power capacity, low fuel consumption, resistance to harsh environmental conditions, high reliability, and low-noise operation. With electronic control units and automatic protection systems, they provide full integration with other onboard vehicle systems.

These systems do not include a separate battery or fuel tank and can be installed either embedded within the vehicle or mounted externally. Designs customizable between 2 kW and 100 kW, with integrated hydraulic pumps and air-conditioning compressors, enable cabin climate control and system power supply without operating the main engine. Thanks to the IP67-rated remote control unit, parameters such as temperature, fuel level, pressure, DC current, and battery status can be monitored via a digital display. The systems offer both automatic and manual start options.

Test Standards
Auxiliary Power Units are tested in accordance with MIL-STD-461 for electromagnetic compatibility, MIL-STD-810 for environmental durability, MIL-STD-704 for power management, and MIL-HDBK-217 for reliability and life prediction. These standards ensure the safe and long-term use of APUs in military vehicles.