New Delhi: Since 2024, Arquus, a member of the John Cockerill group, leader in land mobility solutions and long-standing partner of the armed forces, and Daimler Truck, the German manufacturer of industrial vehicles, have been combining their expertise for the French PL6T (6-tonne logistics carriers) programme. It covers the qualification and delivery of 7,000 new-generation military trucks for the French Land Forces. This major programme aims to renew the logistics and tactical capabilities of the French forces, in a context of accelerated modernisation and rising requirements linked to high-intensity operations. The vehicles will be produced and delivered for more than 10 years.
This renewal is part of the Army’s transformation programme “Toward a Combat-Ready Army,” which aims in particular to modernise the logistics vehicle fleet and transform it to meet the requirements of high-intensity engagements.
The “Zetros by Arquus,” designed for the most demanding environments, combines the robustness of Daimler Truck’s permanent 6×6 chassis with Arquus’ expertise in militarisation, systems integration, and services. This new-generation military truck will provide the French Army with enhanced mobility and safety, including reliable performance in all theaters of operation, with a high payload adapted to logistical needs.
In addition to the supply of logistics carriers, the contract includes their equipment, in-service support, and optimised maintenance thanks to Arquus’ operational experience, as well as comprehensive support provided throughout France for the entire lifecycle of the fleet.
Militarisation, systems integration, protected cabs, customer acceptance as well as support and maintenance will be carried out at Arquus’ French facilities in Limoges, Garchizy and Saint-Nazaire, directly contributing to employment and the preservation of national industrial know-how. The basic vehicles are manufactured at Daimler Truck production sites in Wörth am Rhein, Germany, and Molsheim (Alsace), France.
Thierry Renaudin, CEO of John Cockerill Defense and President of Arquus, said, “We are proud to receive the renewed trust of the Ministry of the Armed Forces, especially as the PL6T program is of major importance to the French Armed Forces. Symbolising cooperation in the service of our sovereignty, this industrial alliance with Daimler Truck enables us to fully meet the requirements of this programme. We are delighted to be providing the armed forces with a new vehicle that meets the highest global standards and is designed for the most demanding environments. Together with Daimler Truck, we are providing the Army with the best operational solution, which is modern and sustainable and meets the long-term operational needs of the forces. The award of this programme contributes to strengthening John Cockerill Defense’s position in the global land defense market.”
Emmanuel Levacher, CEO of Arquus, commented, “Already in service, with more than 15,000 trucks deployed by international armed forces such as those of Canada, Lithuania, and Ukraine in recent years, the Zetros benefits from Arquus’ significant added value: militarisation, integration of johncockerill.com equipment and weapon systems, and versatile configurations for troop transport or logistics. The French Armed Forces will have robust and proven military trucks with high-level tactical performance and maximum proximity to units for operational maintenance.”
Daniel Zittel, Head of Defence Sales at Daimler Truck, stated, “This programme is far more than a contract; it is a strong example of what European cooperation can achieve. Together with Arquus, we demonstrate that French and German industry can work hand in hand to deliver modern, reliable solutions for those who protect our security. This partnership is built on trust and shared commitment, setting a clear benchmark for future collaboration in the defence sector. This reflects Daimler Truck’s Defence Strategy: creating future-proof solutions through strong partnerships and uncompromising reliability, while accelerating our growth in the European defence industry.”
Ulrich Loebich, CEO of Daimler Truck France, remarked, “With this contract, Daimler Truck is expanding its already strong presence in France, currently around 5,500 direct and indirect employees — through an important industrial partnership in the defence sector. We are ready to support the fulfilment of this demanding contract alongside a strong French partner with our local organisation in France. Our sites in Wörth am Rhein, Germany, and Molsheim, France, ensure fast and reliable series production as well as short distances to Arquus’ sites and to the customer.”
