Auxiliary Power Unit – A151K

Auxiliary Power Unit – A151K
Auxiliary Power Unit – A151K is an integrated onboard power system designed to supply electrical energy to armored military vehicles when the main engine is switched off. Developed to support continuous operation of vehicle systems, the A151K enables silent operation, onboard climatization, and sustained mission readiness under demanding operational conditions. Nero Endustries designs and manufactures auxiliary power solutions tailored for modern military platforms and evolving battlefield requirements.
Auxiliary Power Unit – A151K
The Auxiliary Power Unit – A151K is designed to provide electrical power to vehicle systems when the main engine is not running. It supports electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic subsystems during stationary or low-noise operations. The APU is also used during pre-mission preparation phases, such as testing onboard weapons, electronic systems, and cooling the main engine prior to deployment.
In emergency scenarios where the main engine is damaged or inoperable, the A151K can supply power to critical systems, maintaining limited vehicle functionality and operational capability.
Deployment and Platform Integration
The A151K is integrated into armored military vehicles and can be installed internally within sound-insulated compartments or externally on the vehicle structure, depending on platform requirements. It is suitable for a wide range of military platforms, including main battle tanks, armored and infantry fighting vehicles, armored personnel carriers, MRAP vehicles, tactical and support vehicles, and other tracked or wheeled military systems.
The system is also applicable to stationary and mobile military platforms such as shelters, radar units, communication systems, and targeting equipment.
System Configuration and Architecture
Auxiliary Power Unit – A151K is designed to operate independently from the vehicle’s main engine while using fuel supplied directly from the vehicle fuel tank and initial electrical power from the vehicle battery. The system does not require a dedicated fuel tank or battery.
The APU can be configured as a standalone unit or integrated with life support systems, including heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and KBRN protection systems. Depending on application requirements, the system can be designed with air-cooled or water-cooled diesel engine configurations.
Operational Capabilities and Advantages
The A151K supports silent mode operation by enabling vehicle systems to function without running the main engine, significantly reducing acoustic and thermal signatures. It is designed to support increasing onboard power demands caused by additional electronic equipment integrated into modern military vehicles.
A unique operational feature of the A151K is its co-generation capability. When operating alongside the vehicle’s main generator, the APU continuously monitors power demand and supplies additional power when required. This capability eliminates the need to upgrade the vehicle’s primary generator when new systems are added.
Control and Monitoring
The A151K is equipped with an IP67-protected electronic control unit with a digital display. The control system provides real-time operational data, including temperature status, fuel level, pressure values, DC current, battery voltage, and fault information.
The system supports both automatic and manual start modes via the control interface, allowing flexible operation based on mission requirements. Remote-control capability enables operators to manage system functions efficiently from within the vehicle.
Test Standards
Auxiliary Power Unit – A151K is designed and tested in accordance with the following military standards:
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MIL-STD-461 for electromagnetic compatibility
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MIL-STD-810 for environmental durability
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MIL-STD-704 for power management and electrical system compatibility
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MIL-HDBK-217 for reliability and life estimation
These standards verify the APU’s suitability for long-term use in harsh military environments.
Functional Role
Auxiliary Power Unit – A151K enables continuous operation of vehicle systems without reliance on the main engine. It supplies power to onboard electronics, weapon systems, vehicle computers, fire suppression systems, power distribution units, HVAC systems, and KBRN protection equipment.
By reducing main engine operating hours, the A151K extends engine life, lowers fuel consumption, and increases overall operational efficiency. Designed as a smart, integrated system, it enhances mission endurance and operational flexibility across a wide range of military platforms.
