Auxiliary Power Unit – A1621K

Auxiliary Power Unit – A1621K
Auxiliary Power Unit – A1621K is an onboard auxiliary power system developed to maintain uninterrupted operation of armored military vehicle systems when the main engine is switched off. Designed to support electrical, pneumatic, and hydraulic subsystems while enabling onboard climatization, the A1621K allows military platforms to sustain operational readiness across extended mission profiles. Nero Endustries develops auxiliary power solutions engineered to meet the reliability and integration demands of modern military vehicles.
Auxiliary Power Unit – A1621K
Auxiliary Power Unit – A1621K is designed to provide continuous power to critical vehicle systems without operating the main engine. It supports pre-mission activities such as weapon system testing, onboard diagnostics, and main engine cooling.
In emergency situations where the main engine is damaged or unavailable, the A1621K enables selected systems to remain operational, preserving vehicle functionality and mission continuity. The system also enhances operational capability in deployment areas where external power infrastructure is not available.
Platform Compatibility and Integration
The A1621K is developed for integration into a wide range of military platforms, including tracked and wheeled armored vehicles, tactical and support vehicles, stationary systems, and selected airborne platforms. Typical applications include main battle tanks, self-propelled artillery systems, armored and infantry fighting vehicles, armored personnel carriers, MRAP vehicles, rocket systems, shelters, tents, helicopters, and aircraft.
Depending on vehicle layout and mission requirements, the system can be installed internally within sound-insulated compartments or externally on the vehicle structure to support effective thermal dissipation and noise management.
Power Architecture and System Balance
Auxiliary Power Unit – A1621K is engineered to address increasing onboard power demand caused by the integration of advanced electronic mission systems. It enables silent mode operation with reduced acoustic and thermal signatures, minimizing reliance on the main engine and reducing fuel consumption.
The system supports power configurations ranging from 2 kW to 20 kW and provides 24/28 VDC output as well as high AC and DC voltage options. Depending on operational requirements, the APU can be configured with air-cooled or liquid-cooled diesel engine architectures.
System Configuration and Co-Generation Capability
The A1621K is fully integrated with the vehicle’s fuel and control systems and draws fuel directly from the vehicle fuel tank, eliminating the need for a separate fuel tank or battery.
A defining feature of the A1621K is its co-generation operating mode. When operating alongside the vehicle’s main generator, the system continuously monitors onboard power demand and compensates for shortfalls caused by newly added equipment, avoiding the need for main generator upgrades.
Control, Monitoring, and Smart Functions
Auxiliary Power Unit – A1621K is equipped with an IP67-rated electronic control unit with a digital display. Operators can monitor real-time parameters including temperature status, fuel level, pressure values, DC current, battery voltage, and fault conditions.
The control interface supports both automatic and manual start options, enabling flexible and reliable operation across varying mission scenarios.
Test Standards
Auxiliary Power Unit – A1621K is designed and tested in accordance with the following military standards:
MIL-STD-461 for electromagnetic compatibility
MIL-STD-810 for environmental durability
MIL-STD-704 for power management and electrical compatibility
MIL-HDBK-217 for reliability and life estimation
These standards confirm the system’s suitability for long-term use in harsh military environments.
Functional Role
Auxiliary Power Unit – A1621K enables armored military vehicles to operate mission-critical systems independently of the main engine. It supplies power to onboard electronics, hydraulic and pneumatic systems, climate control units, weapon systems, communication equipment, fire suppression systems, power distribution units, and KBRN systems.
By reducing engine runtime, supporting silent operation, and maintaining balanced power distribution across multiple subsystems, the A1621K enhances operational efficiency, vehicle survivability, and mission endurance across diverse military platforms.

