Ready when you are.
Important tasks call for heavy-duty professionals. The Mercedes-Benz Defence Trucks offer made-to-measure solutions for any scenario. This is made possible by a broad portfolio, ranging from the legendary Unimog with a payload of at least 2 tonnes, to our heavy‐duty Arocs tractor with a gross combined traction weight of 250 tonnes. You can rely on the Mercedes-Benz Defence Trucks and the Mercedes-Benz Service and Integrated Logistics Support – provided by a trusted partner to armed forces worldwide.
Maximum mobility. At all times, in all places.
24 October 2024
Delivery of defence vehicles.
Daimler Truck AG and EMPL Fahrzeugwerk GmbH hand over 15 Unimog U 5000 ambulances and 26 Unimog U 5000 crew cab vehicles to the Lithuanian Ministery of Defence.
The star is the difference.
It stands for trucks you can trust.
Our defence vehicles draw on our unique experience as the world’s leading truck manufacturer. They are designed and built to succeed in diverse military scenarios in a wide variety of environments. Every day across the world, they demonstrate their reliability, durability and ruggedness under the most adverse operational and climatic conditions.
Mercedes‐Benz Defence Trucks are designed to navigate roads and difficult off-road terrain with ease – providing you with the best solution for your transportation needs. Plus, take advantage of our unrivalled worldwide service network and global presence for outstanding advice and assistance – and maximum vehicle availability.
Benefits
A one-stop solution to your needs.
Built to master any operational scenario.
As the largest commercial vehicle manufacturer in the world, Mercedes-Benz Defence Trucks offers you a tailor‐made solution to any operational need – with our Unimog, Zetros, Atego or Arocs families. Our proven, powerful and reliable trucks deliver a wide variety of capabilities.
We give you an effective answer to your challenges, be it for transport of personnel, material, heavy-duty tasks, dangerous goods, or humanitarian aid. And our vehicles give you reliability and performance in all conditions, including off‐road and long haul scenarios. Defence vehicle capabilities start where paved roads end.
The world’s leading truck manufacturer.
- Defence vehicles based on extensively tried-and-tested volume-production trucks
- Tailored and optimised to meet all military user requirements
- Guaranteed product and service quality – Made in Germany
- Advanced technologies with a focus on total cost of ownership, robustness and reliability
- Spare parts, maintenance and repairs available from 5,000 authorised workshops in over 160 countries
A trusted partner to armed forces worldwide.
Wherever you are in the world, where roads end and the toughest terrain begins, Mercedes-Benz all-wheel drive trucks are your most reliable means of transportation. When the smallest details can mean reaching a destination safely, experience and quality are irreplaceable. The very best equipment offers you dependability even under the most extreme conditions.
The best proof of our ability to deliver on promises is the trust placed in us by militaries across the globe – for over 100 years, in more than 80 countries.
Deployed for all kinds of tasks.
At Daimler Truck, we have harnessed our experience in volume manufacturing to establish a tailor-made production process with dedicated facilities and experts. The resulting vehicles are specifically designed and built for military challenges. The process can be leveraged for both standard and new, customised solutions.
Daimler Truck is a strong and highly flexible partner to systems manufacturers and bodybuilders. Our first-class defence vehicles are a perfect match for leading-edge bodies and systems, giving military users the best-possible answer to their imperatives.
For OEMs, we can tailor our Special Chassis and component kits to the specific needs of individual military applications – for virtually any type of vehicle, from APCs to armoured heavy recovery trucks.
Our portfolio encompasses a wide range of emission classes, from Euro III to Euro VI. So you will find the right solution for your needs, in Europe or in other parts of the globe.
Always mission-ready.
There are Mercedes-Benz trucks deployed for all kinds of tasks in all four corners of the world. The vehicle chassis are of exceptionally bodybuilder-friendly design. Specifically, standardised mounting points allow our partners to install even the most complex of bodies and other superstructures. By employing adapted civilian mounting points, we can accelerate development and lower integration costs for military applications.
Benefits
Setting the standard for off-road mobility.
Always on the move.
Have the right equipment for your mission: vehicles that you can trust in completely. In freezing temperatures and scorching desert heat, on paved roads and rugged terrain. Versatile vehicles that are safe, and simple to operate and maintain. And that are reliable by design.
Fast and unstoppable – with a robust chassis and technology expertise that has been unrivalled for decades. Mercedes‐Benz Defence Trucks have been evolved and tailored for a variety of military scenarios. So you can count on maximum operational readiness, even under the most adverse conditions.
Maximum traction for off-roading.
The tyre pressure can be raised or lowered using the TireControl or TireControl plus central tyre inflation system (CTIS) – separately, for front and rear axles, and to accommodate the current load and operating conditions. The result is high traction on any surface.
Powerful propulsion – from Euro III to Euro VI.
Remaining mobile means adapting to the local fuel situation. That’s why our powertrain options range from advanced, eco-friendly Mercedes-Benz BlueEfficiency Euro VI engines, to engines compliant with other, regional emission standards.
In addition, we offer vehicles that can master both fuel extremes: from military fuels that deviate from diesel standards, i.e. with high levels of sulphur or other impurities, to fuels compliant with Euro VI.
Safety first. In any terrain.
Crossing rivers, climbing sand dunes, negotiating mud and navigating steep embankments: Mercedes-Benz trucks are famous for their innovative suspension design.
Features, such as the frame with its three-point cab mounting and torsional flexibility, the special axle suspensions, all-wheel drive, high ground clearance and differential locks, ensure superb off-roading capabilities.
Benefits
Mercedes-Benz Trucks Service and
integrated logistics support (ILS).
Complete solutions tailored to customers’ needs.
The effectiveness and reliability of army transport vehicles is of crucial importance at all times, in all scenarios. That calls for a seamless supply of maintenance, repairs and operations (MRO) materials to safeguard the ongoing availability of assets and resources. In the military, uptime is everything.
Against this background, we have a worldwide and comprehensive service network to support our dependable, robust and cost-effective Mercedes‐Benz Defence Trucks.
A global presence.
- Full-spec ILS and CLS capabilities over the planned service life
- Highly skilled and experienced ILS managers and service personnel
- Mission support via field service representatives possible
- Long-term logistics support across the entire vehicle life
- Train-the-trainer programme by experienced Mercedes-Benz truck professionals
- Fleet management options according to your specific requirements
A true partnership.
Daimler Truck is both a trusted supplier of commercial vehicles and a proven partner to modern armies – not least because we offer far more than just trucks. As a truly international company, Daimler Truck is able to provide customer-centric ILS solutions worldwide. So you can count on our support, whether you are deploying your vehicles on a mission or for standard use.
Wherever you deploy your vehicle – Daimler Truck is there to help.
Our approximately 5,000 authorised workshops in over 160 countries mean we are there for you and your Mercedes-Benz Defence Trucks. We provide the same outstanding support, expertise and technical capabilities as we did during manufacturing – via our comprehensive service network and expert service partners.
Standard service solutions.
Our extensive experience enables us to provide tailor-made service offerings. We have also developed standard service solutions designed to meet typical customer requirements. Additionally, ILS and CLS contracts can be tailored in line with specific needs. And mission support via field service representatives is possible in most cases.
Excellent spare parts availability.
Daimler Truck delivers first-class service worldwide. Our comprehensive network can support you anywhere and anytime. And the same applies to our guaranteed worldwide availability of spare parts. Wherever the operational situation is challenging, we work with you to establish a reliable supply chain.
Integrated Logistics Support.
Our ILS managers work closely with you to analyse requirements and develop a made-to-measure ILS plan. The Mercedes-Benz Truck Service package is based on your specific needs and on the desired level and type of support within any given environment. The analysis allows us to offer a full range of support options, including training and spare parts packages, plus special tools, full fleet management, and test equipment. Your existing maintenance infrastructure is incorporated into our planning.
| Vehicle | Load capacity of cab chassis | Tyre formation | Passenger capacity | Wheelbase | Off-road capability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arocs for heavy-duty operations | up to 27 t | single, twin | up to 3 seats | 8x8, 8x6, 8x4, 6x6, 6x4 | ⬤⬤⬤◯◯ |
| Arocs heavy-duty tractor | up to 250 t (Gross Combination Weight) | single, twin | up to 3 seats | 8x8, 8x6, 8x4, 6x6, 6x4 | ⬤⬤◯◯◯ |
| Arocs for medium-duty operations | up to 10 t | single | up to 3 seats | 4x4 | ⬤⬤⬤◯◯ |
| Atego for light-duty operations | up to 5 t | single | up to 6 seats | 4x4 | ⬤⬤⬤◯◯ |
| Zetros tractor | up to 120 t (Gross Combination Weight) | single, twin | up to 4 seats | 6x6, 6x4, 4x4, 4x2 | ⬤⬤⬤◯◯ |
| Zetros platform | up to 18 t | single, twin | up to 4 seats | 6x6, 6x4, 4x4, 4x2 (8x8) | ⬤⬤⬤⬤◯ |
| Unimog for extreme off-road missions Euro VI | up to 5 t | single | up to 3 seats | 4x4 | ⬤⬤⬤⬤⬤ |
| Unimog with crew cab Euro VI | up to 5 t | single | up to 7 seats | 4x4 | ⬤⬤⬤⬤⬤ |
| Unimog Euro III/V | up to 5 t | single | up to 6 seats | 4x4 | ⬤⬤⬤⬤⬤ |
| Unimog airfield tractor | up to 30 t (towing) | single | up to 3 seats | 4x4 | ⬤⬤◯◯◯ |
| Unimog Convertible | up to 5 t | single | up to 3 seats | 4x4 | ⬤⬤⬤⬤⬤ |
| Special Chassis | 9.5 up to 42 t (Gross Combination Weight) | single | up to 9 seats | 8x8, 6x6, 4x4 | ⬤⬤⬤⬤◯ |
Off-road capability
- Heavy-duty hub reduction axles for high ground clearance and durability
- Permanent all-wheel drive for best-possible traction
- Differential locks and inter-axle differential locks can be operated while driving
- Choice of single tyres for optimal off-road performance
- Special options available for extreme climatic conditions (air intake pre-heaters, high-performance radiators)
- Optional part-time front-wheel drive or hydraulic auxiliary drive at the front axle
Military options (selected)
- Fording capability
- Blackout lighting circuit
- Swivel-type roof hatch plus special centre seat/standing platform
- Lugs for air, rail and sea transport of vehicle
- Towing and recovery equipment
- Features for ADR/transport of hazardous goods; battery main switch
- Weapon brackets
- Spare wheel holder
Handling and operation
- Optimum conversion ex-works for operation as a heavy-duty hauling/transport vehicle
- Use of the dry clutch when driving continuously reduces fuel consumption, and allows an emergency operating mode
- Option: additional cooling system for safe operation at full power at high ambient temperatures
- Option: independent hydraulic supply for trailer
- Option: cardanic and height-adjustable semi-trailer couplings
- Option: fuel capacity of up to 1,200 l
Gearbox
- Mercedes-Benz PowerShift 3 for automatic gear selection with fast gearshifts with only brief interruption of tractive power
- Power transmission drive programs for off-road operation, optimised for the specific GCW
- Option: turbo retarder clutch (TRC) for the following advantages:
- Up to 3,000 Nm for responsive starting/manoeuvring, no wear for a maintenance-free service life
- Full utilisation of engine power up to the traction limit (tyre/ground)
- Maximum braking performance of up to 720 kW
Off-road capability
- Heavy-duty hub reduction axles for high ground clearance and durability
- Permanent all-wheel drive for best-possible traction
- Differential locks and inter-axle differential locks can be operated while driving
- Choice of single tyres for optimal off-road performance
- Special options available for extreme climatic conditions (air intake pre-heaters, high-performance radiators)
- Optional part-time front-wheel drive or hydraulic auxiliary drive at the front axle
Military options (selected)
- Fording capability
- Blackout lighting circuit
- Swivel-type roof hatch plus special centre seat/standing platform
- Lugs for air, rail and sea transport of vehicle
- Towing and recovery equipment
- Features for ADR/transport of hazardous goods; battery main switch
- Weapon brackets
- Spare wheel holder
Handling and operation
- Optimum conversion ex-works for operation as a heavy-duty hauling/transport vehicle
- Use of the dry clutch when driving continuously reduces fuel consumption, and allows an emergency operating mode
- Option: additional cooling system for safe operation at full power at high ambient temperatures
- Option: independent hydraulic supply for trailer
- Option: cardanic and height-adjustable semi-trailer couplings
- Option: fuel capacity of up to 1,200 l
Off-road capability
- Heavy-duty hub reduction axles for high ground clearance and durability
- Permanent all-wheel drive for best-possible traction
- Differential locks and inter-axle differential locks can be operated while driving
- Choice of single tyres for optimal off-road performance
- Special options available for extreme climatic conditions (air intake pre-heaters, high-performance radiators)
- Optional part-time front-wheel drive or hydraulic auxiliary drive at the front axle
Military options (selected)
- Fording capability
- Blackout lighting circuit
- Swivel-type roof hatch plus special centre seat/standing platform
- Lugs for air, rail and sea transport of vehicle
- Towing and recovery equipment
- Features for ADR/transport of hazardous goods; battery main switch
- Weapon brackets
- Spare wheel holder
Handling and operation
- Optimum conversion ex-works for operation as a heavy-duty hauling/transport vehicle
- Use of the dry clutch when driving continuously reduces fuel consumption, and allows an emergency operating mode
- Option: additional cooling system for safe operation at full power at high ambient temperatures
- Option: independent hydraulic supply for trailer
- Option: cardanic and height-adjustable semi-trailer couplings
- Option: fuel capacity of up to 1,200 l
Off-road capability
- Permanent all-wheel drive for best-possible traction
- Differential locks and inter-axle differential locks can be operated while driving
- Choice of single tyres for optimal off-road performance
- Special options available for extreme climatic conditions (air intake pre-heaters, high-performance radiators)
Military options
- Fording capability
- Blackout lighting circuit
- Swivel-type roof hatch plus special centre seat/standing platform
- Lugs for air, rail and sea transport of vehicle
- Towing and recovery equipment
- Features for ADR/transport of hazardous goods; battery main switch
- Weapon brackets
- Spare wheel holder
Off-road capability
- Permanent all-wheel drive with 2-speed transfer case and differential locks
- Heavy-duty planetary hub reduction axles with differential locks
- Heavy-duty vehicle frame
- Cab behind engine for smoother ride with excellent off-road capabilities
- Balanced axle load distribution for safe handling regardless of load pattern enhances crew safety without sacrificing off-road capabilities
Military options
- Fording capability up to 800 mm
- Blackout lighting circuit
- Swivel-type roof hatch plus special centre seat/standing platform
- Lugs for air, rail and sea transport of vehicle
- Towing and recovery equipment
- Features for ADR/transport of hazardous goods; battery main switch
- Weapon brackets and spare wheel holder
Engine and gearbox
- Reliable and strong 13-liter 6-cylinder in-line engine with 266 kW (360 hp) up to 375 kW (510 hp) and up to 2,400 Nm torque (Euro V)
- More torque and power reserves in all scenarios
- Engine suitable for low-quality fuel or kerosene, available in Euro III and V versions
- Robust fully synchronised gearbox with 16 forward and 2 reverse gears, manual shift
Option: Fully automatic 6-range gearbox with torque converter.
Off-road capability
- Permanent all-wheel drive with 2-speed transfer case and differential locks
- Heavy-duty planetary hub reduction axles with differential locks
- Heavy-duty vehicle frame
- Cab behind engine for smoother ride with excellent off-road capabilities
- Balanced axle load distribution for safe handling regardless of load pattern enhances crew safety without sacrificing off-road capabilities
Military options
- Fording capability up to 800 mm
- Blackout lighting circuit
- Swivel-type roof hatch plus special centre seat/standing platform
- Lugs for air, rail and sea transport of vehicle
- Towing and recovery equipment
- Features for ADR/transport of hazardous goods; battery main switch
- Weapon brackets and spare wheel holder
Engine and gearbox
- Reliable and strong 13-liter 6-cylinder in-line engine with up to 375 kW (510 hp) and up to 2,400 Nm torque (Euro V)
- More torque and power reserves in all scenarios
- Engine suitable for low-quality fuel or kerosene, available in Euro III and V versions
- Robust fully synchronised gearbox with 16 forward and 2 reverse gears, manual shift
Option: Fully automatic 6-range gearbox with torque converter.
Off-road capability
- Permanent all-wheel drive with 2-speed transfer case and differential locks
- Heavy-duty planetary hub reduction axles with differential locks
- Heavy-duty vehicle frame
- Cab behind engine for smoother ride with excellent off-road capabilities
- Balanced axle load distribution for safe handling regardless of load pattern enhances crew safety without sacrificing off-road capabilities
- Central tyre inflation system (CTIS) for better traction on a variety of surfaces (optional)
Military options
- Fording capability up to 800 mm
- Blackout lighting circuit
- Swivel-type roof hatch plus special centre seat/standing platform
- Lugs for air, rail and sea transport of vehicle
- Towing and recovery equipment
- Features for ADR/transport of hazardous goods; battery main switch
- Weapon brackets and spare wheel holder
Engine
- Fuel-efficient engines with up to 170 kW (231 hp), 900 Nm torque
- Engines certified from Euro III to Euro VI emission standards
- Engine types available for low-quality fuel or kerosene
- Extended maintenance intervals of 1,400 hours for low maintenance costs and high vehicle availability
- Engine and/or gear box PTO’s optional as a mechanical interface e.g. for driving hydraulic pumps
- High-performance engine brake reduces heating and wear of service brake
Gearbox
- Fully synchronised manual transmission with 8 forward and 6 reverse gears for highly responsive speed adjustment on and off-road
- Low range gears for speed adjustment from 1 to 90 km/h on off-road terrain
- 2-pedal electronic automated shifting (EAS) system eliminates need for manual gearshift and reduces clutch wear
- Electronic quick reverse
Frame/Axles
- Welded heavy-duty torsionally flexible frame
- Integrated 3-point-mountings for bodies, engine, gearbox and cab suspensions
- Portal axles with coil springs for high ground clearance
- Thrust-tube-protected and robust powertrain
- Short frame overhangs at the front and rear allow large angles of approach and departure
- 100% grade climbing ability
- Option: fording capability of up to 1,200 mm
- Tyre pressure control system allows adjustment of tyre pressure while driving
Engine
- Fuel-efficient engines with up to 170 kW (231 hp), 900 Nm torque
- Engines certified from Euro III to Euro VI emission standards
- Engine types available for low-quality fuel or kerosene
- Extended maintenance intervals of 1,400 hours for low maintenance costs and high vehicle availability
- Engine and/or gear box PTO’s optional as a mechanical interface e.g. for driving hydraulic pumps
- High-performance engine brake reduces heating and wear of service brake
Gearbox
- Fully synchronised manual transmission with 8 forward and 6 reverse gears for highly responsive speed adjustment on and off-road
- Low range gears for speed adjustment from 1 to 90 km/h on off-road terrain
- 2-pedal electronic automated shifting (EAS) system eliminates need for manual gearshift and reduces clutch wear
- Electronic quick reverse
Frame/Axles
- Welded heavy-duty torsionally flexible frame
- Integrated 3-point-mountings for bodies, engine, gearbox and cab suspensions
- Portal axles with coil springs for high ground clearance
- Thrust-tube-protected and robust powertrain
- Short frame overhangs at the front and rear allow large angles of approach and departure
- 100% grade climbing ability
- Option: fording capability of up to 1,200 mm
- Tyre pressure control system allows adjustment of tyre pressure while driving
Engine
- Fuel efficient engines OM 904 LA (Euro III) with 130 kW (177 bhp), 675 Nm and OM 924 LA (Euro V) with 160 kW (218 bhp), 810 Nm and OM 924 LA (Euro III) with 163 kW (222 bhp)
- Engines certified to Euro III/V emission standards
- Engine types available for low-quality fuel or kerosene
- Extended maintenance intervals of 1,400 hours for low maintenance costs and high vehicle availability
- Gear box PTO optional as a mechanical interface e.g. for driving hydraulic pumps
- High-performance engine brake reduces heating and wear of service brake
Frame/Axles
- Welded heavy-duty torsionally flexible frame
- Integrated 3-point-mountings for bodies, engine, gearbox and cab suspensions
- All-wheel drive with single tyres
- Differential locks at the front and rear axles can be engaged while driving
- 100% climbing capability
- Option: fording ability up to 1,200 mm
- Drive shafts protected by thrust tubes
Towing aircraft
- Torque converter for smooth heavy-duty towing
- Special towing mode ensures smooth starting and safe towing up to 10 km/h
- Front mounting plate (DIN EN 15432, type F1c), with height-adjustable NATO coupling
- Rear towing interface with two height-adjustable NATO couplings
- Excellent weight balance for towing and operation of implements
Engine
- Economical engines with 130–160 kW (177-218 hp), 900 Nm torque
- OM 924 engines certified from Euro III to Euro V emission standards
- Engine types available for operation with low-quality fuel or kerosene
- Extended maintenance intervals of 1,200 hours ensure low maintenance costs and high vehicle availability
- PTO optional as a mechanical interface for operating implements (600 Nm)
- High-performance engine brake reduces heating and wear of service brake
Armouring
Armoured defence trucks.
For evolving threats in conflict scenarios.
Defence vehicles in hostile environments are jeopardised by bombs, mines and IEDs. Logistical tasks and peacekeeping missions have to be carried out nonetheless. Vehicles that offer maximum protection to their crew, and operate reliably and with the utmost mobility in diverse climates and infrastructures are essential. Armoured Mercedes‐Benz Defence Trucks are equipped to meet these complex demands.
Tailored to your needs.
- Mine and ballistic protection
- 3 seats with 4-point seat belts
- Manually operated door mechanism
- Heated windscreen and side windows
- Tiltable roof hatch
- High degree of compliance with unprotected Zetros versions
- Available in different chassis configurations and with different superstructures
- Universal mounts on rear wall
Resolving the “impossible triangle”.
Daimler Truck is able to achieve an exceptional blend of the three factors of mobility, military payload and protection – the corners of the “impossible triangle”. We rise to these challenges by collaborating hand-in-glove with the world’s top protection-system companies. Most Mercedes‐Benz Defence Trucks can be equipped with special armouring to meet the requirements of today’s military missions.
Special Chassis
Customized solutions up to 56 t GVW.
We combine our automotive expertise with the skills of special-vehicle partners for both civilian and non-civilian uses. This allows us to give you the chassis that matches the vehicle body you need. In addition we offer you extensive technical support to merge your body and our chassis to an outstanding mission system.
Unimog:
the starting point for success.
Our extensive experience in designing, developing and building the Mercedes-Benz special-vehicle range means we have the expertise to create a top-quality chassis for military purposes. Our tried-and-tested mounting points and interfaces allow you to implement your custom body.
Our most popular chassis is a modified version of the one installed in the Mercedes-Benz Unimog: the extremely mobile and versatile 14.5 t Special Chassis, which has already been widely deployed for diverse body types. The result – after customer-specific testing – is a premium Mercedes-Benz product that includes our bodybuilder certificate.
Armoured troop carriers:
striking the right balance.
It is vital that armoured patrol vehicles achieve the optimum combination of protection, mobility, and load capacity for both crew and equipment. This can be accomplished by leveraging our Mercedes-Benz Special Chassis for your custom bodies. Our standardised mounting points give you more freedom to design your body configurations with armoured sections and load compartments, in line with specific needs.
The chassis is the vital basis.
All our Special Chassis are industrially trialled and tested for special superstructures. From the engine, to the drivetrain, wheels, frame, steering, and operating console – proven components from the world’s largest truck manufacturer that are tailored to your operational requirements, and that ensure your special vehicles are exceptionally robust and mobile.
