Since 2024, member of the John Cockerill Group, Arquus, leader in land mobility solutions and long-standing partner of the French armed forces, and Daimler Truck, German manufacturer of industrial vehicles, have combined their expertise to win the PL6T (6-ton logistics carriers) contract. This program aims to renew the logistical and tactical capabilities of the French land forces by delivering 7,000 new-generation tactical trucks over a period of more than ten years.
This renewal is part of the army's transformation program «Towards a combat army» The aim is to modernize the fleet of logistics carriers and transform them to meet the demands of high-intensity commitments.
The «Zetros by Arquus», designed for the most demanding environments, combines the robustness of Daimler's permanent 6×6 chassis with Arquus' expertise in militarization and systems integration. This model will provide the French army with enhanced mobility in complete safety, in all theaters of operation, and a high payload adapted to logistical requirements.
In addition to the supply of the logistics carriers, the contract includes their equipment, in-service support and optimized maintenance thanks to Arquus' operational experience, as well as comprehensive support provided on French territory for the entire life of the fleet.
Militarization, systems integration and a large part of support will be provided at Arquus' French sites (Limoges, Garchizy and Saint Nazaire), contributing directly to employment and the sustainability of national industrial know-how. Daimler Truck assembles its military vehicles at Wörth am Rhein, near the French border, and at its Molsheim plant (Alsace, France).
Thierry Renaudin, CEO of John Cockerill Defense and Chairman of Arquus, comments:
«We are proud of the renewed confidence shown by the French Ministry of the Armed Forces, especially as the PL6T program is of prime importance to the French Forces. A symbol of cooperation in the service of our sovereignty, this industrial alliance with Daimler Truck enables us to fully meet the requirements of this program. We are delighted to be able to provide the armed forces with a new vehicle of the highest world standards, designed for the most demanding environments. Together with Daimler, we are providing the French army with the safest, most modern and sustainable solution, meeting the forces» long-term operational requirements. The award of this program will further strengthen John Cockerill Defense's position in the global land defense market.»
Emmanuel Levacher, CEO of Arquus, adds:
«Already in service, with more than 15,000 trucks in international armed forces such as those of Canada, Lithuania and Ukraine in recent years, the Zetros benefits from Arquus' significant added value: militarization, integration of equipment and weapon systems, and versatile configurations for troop transport and logistics. The French Forces will benefit from robust, tried-and-tested military trucks, with top-level tactical performance and maximum proximity to units for Operational Readiness Maintenance operations.»
Daniel Zittel, Head of Defence Sales at Daimler Truck, explains:
«This program is much more than just a contract: it's a powerful example of what European cooperation can achieve. With Arquus, we are demonstrating that French and German industries can work hand in hand to provide modern, reliable solutions to those who ensure our security. This partnership is based on trust and a shared commitment, setting a clear benchmark for future collaboration in the defense sector. Our sites in Wörth am Rhein, Germany, and Molsheim, France, guarantee fast, reliable series production, as well as short distances to Arquus sites and the customer.»
Ulrich Loebich, CEO of Daimler Truck France, adds:
«With this contract, Daimler Truck is strengthening its already significant presence in France - which currently employs around 5,500 direct and indirect staff - through a major industrial partnership in the defense sector. We are proud to contribute to the realization of this demanding contract alongside a strong French partner, with our local organization in France.»
