The French Ministry of the Armed Forces has awarded Arquus, a subsidiary of John Cockerill, and Daimler Truck the "PL6T" contract for the qualification and delivery of 7,000 new-generation military trucks. These vehicles, designed for a payload of six tons, will gradually replace existing trucks and will be delivered over a period of more than ten years.
The program aims to modernize the logistical and operational capabilities of French ground forces. The new "Zetros by Arquus" combines Daimler Truck's Mercedes-Benz Zetros platform with militarization and in-service support provided by Arquus. All vehicles are based on a three-axle chassis, with an OM 460 Euro 3 engine and automatic transmission, simplifying operation and maintenance. Several variants will be delivered, ranging from troop transport to trucks equipped with cranes or winches.
The vehicles will be produced at Daimler Truck's sites in Wörth-am-Rhein (Germany) and Molsheim (France). Arquus will handle military conversion, systems integration, cab protection, and maintenance from its French facilities, mobilizing 2,000 employees. Daimler Truck France will contribute to logistical support through its network of more than 150 sales and service outlets.
The Franco-German partnership exemplifies industrial cooperation to meet the operational needs of the armed forces while consolidating industrial activity in France.
