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
Babcock LB Babcock LB
BAE Systems secures programmable ammunition orders from Sweden and Finland

Defence

BAE Systems secures programmable ammunition orders from Sweden and Finland

23 December 2025

BAE Systems has signed two contracts worth approximately $171 million for its Bofors 40mm and 57mm 3P (Pre-fragmented, Programmable, Proximity- fused) advanced ammunition, in a combined procurement from both the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) and the Finnish Defence Forces Logistics Command (FDF LOG COM).

Boeing Defence UK awarded Gladiator contract

Defence

Boeing Defence UK awarded Gladiator contract

22 December 2025

Boeing Defence UK has been awarded a two-year and three-month contract extension, with option to extend by a further three months, worth £16.9 million to continue supporting the Gladiator synthetic training environment.

Saab opens UK site to support British Army training

Defence

Saab opens UK site to support British Army training

19 December 2025

Saab UK has opened a new site in South West England dedicated to its Training & Simulation business unit. This expansion strengthens Saab’s ability to deliver advanced training solutions to the British Army.

Patria and Germany sign two contracts within CAVS programme

Defence

Patria and Germany sign two contracts within CAVS programme

19 December 2025

Patria and Germany have concluded two procurement contracts within the Common Armoured Vehicle System (CAVS) programme.

Advertisement
Leonardo animated rectangle
Top Australian and UK universities sign AUKUS innovation pact

Defence

Top Australian and UK universities sign AUKUS innovation pact

18 December 2025

Eight Australian and UK universities have become the founding members of a new Advanced Skills Alliance, to fast-track the skills and research needed to build security, defence and resilience capabilities.

Dstl leads on NATO emerging disruptive tech competition

Defence

Dstl leads on NATO emerging disruptive tech competition

18 December 2025

The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) is leading a NATO research project called ‘Youth Perspective on Emerging and Disruptive Technologies’.

Advertisement
ODU RT
Advertisement
General Atomics LB