Rheinmetall participates in the ILA Berlin – the International Exhibition for the Aerospace Industry – with various products including anti-aircraft systems as well as Mobile Start Units (Ground Power).

In particular, the company announced that it has won a contract of 13 million euros for the Mobile Start Units – Ground Power (MSU-GP) for aircraft of the German Air Force.

The framework contract, awarded by the German procurement service BAAINBw, is for the next three years and concerns 16 new Mobile Start Units with integrated ground power (MSU-GP). The contract also includes the upgrade of the 48 MSU-E units currently in service to the latest version of MSU-GP.

According to Rheinmetall, the German Air Force has been using the Rheinmetall MSU to start its entire fleet of aircraft, including the Eurofighter, since 2014. This contract hence continues a business relationship that has been successful for decades.

Designed to prioritize reliability and versatility, the Rheinmetall MSU-GP is a dependable solution for any takeoff. As the only turbine-powered air start unit, it is lighter to deploy and more compact than a diesel engine unit. 

Also read: IDE – MARSHALL AEROSPACE | Collaboration for Hybrid Electric Power Systems

Rheinmetall’s mobile start units (MSU) have both military and commercial applications and a broad international appeal. These units are found in airports around the globe: more than 1200 have been sold in more than 40 countries. 

Rheinmetall MSUs are not only used with the German Air Force, but are also in operation with the US Navy, which employs them on all of their aircraft carriers. 

Trusted by civilian companies including major German aviation companies, British Airways, American Airlines, Air New Zealand, and FedEx, the MSUs can start even the most demanding aircraft, including the B777-300ER and A380.

As countries increase their commitments to reducing their emissions with higher standards and regulations, airports around the world need to pivot towards zero emissions solutions. 

To support those requirements, Rheinmetall recently introduced the Rheinmetall eMSU – the world’s first all-electric air start unit. The eMSU allows for carbon-free main engine starts and a reduction in overall ground operations emissions. Easy to operate, it is the greenest air start unit solution on the market.

Also read: Combat Digital Platform | Digital transformation and advanced connectivity solutions by Thales – VIDEO