MARTE: EU states join forces to build hybrid-powered battle tanks

Eleven EU states, including Germany and Norway, have launched the “Main ARmored Tank of Europe” (MARTE) project to build a fifth-generation main battle tank. This was announced by the international armaments company Rheinmetall on Tuesday. The tank is to be digitalized and highly networked, use artificial intelligence (AI) for target acquisition, for example, and be able to drive electrically with a hybrid drive.

Large defense companies, medium-sized technology companies, smaller companies and research institutes are involved in the MARTE project. The development of critical subsystems is managed by larger defense companies such as KNDS, Rheinmetall, Leonardo, Indra and SAAB. The overall management of the MARTE project will lie with the German Ministry of Defense, according to the Rheinmetall press release.

State-of-the-art main battle tank

The main battle tank itself is to be highly technical to meet changing threats and new strategic requirements on the battlefield. The aim is to develop a resilient defense system that combines innovative and disruptive technologies. The EU also wants to use the European project to avoid dependency on foreign defense companies, such as those from the USA, and regain its sovereignty over heavy weapon systems.

The main battle tank for the military is to be designed in such a way that it is integrated into operational networks to be able to use NATO-compatible battlefield management systems and high-bandwidth communication systems, for example. In addition, AI-controlled decision-making tools will be integrated to support the crew of the main battle tank in the best possible way in fulfilling their missions. Specifically, the aim is to reduce the workload in stressful situations, such as target recognition, target acquisition and fire control prioritization. The defense systems can be aligned automatically and semi-automatically with AI support. Enemy detection by radar, optical and acoustic systems also help here. Drone defense systems and thermal detection of enemy systems are also included.

Main battle tank with hybrid drive

One focus in the development of the main battle tank is on the drive system, which is to be hybrid, i.e., also have a high-torque electric drive train. This could increase the range and reduce the acoustic and thermal signature. The tank will then no longer be so easy for the enemy to locate. There are also plans for the main battle tank to be able to drive autonomously.

The MARTE project is receiving start-up funding of 20 million euros from the European Defense Fund (EDF).

(olb)