An armored vehicle sitting in a static position still has critical power demands. Communications systems need to stay live. Electronics require stable voltage. Crew comfort systems must run. And none of it can wait for the main engine to be running. That is the operational reality that under-armor auxiliary power units are designed to solve.
Fischer Panda’s under-armor APU solutions are purpose-built for exactly this environment.
The Problem With Running the Main Engine for Power
Idling a vehicle’s primary engine to power onboard systems is expensive, loud, and tactically problematic. Fuel consumption and engine hours accumulate unnecessarily during extended idle periods, and the acoustic and thermal signature of a running main engine can compromise a position. In a silent watch scenario, where a vehicle needs to maintain full electronic capability without revealing its location, running the main engine is simply not an option.
An under-armor APU solves this by providing independent onboard power while the main engine is fully disengaged.
How Fischer Panda Under-Armor APUs Work
Fischer Panda’s under-armor APUs are compact DC units using permanent magnet generator technology. They are custom-designed to provide silent running of onboard equipment in armored vehicles when the main engine is disengaged. The configuration can be adapted to specific space constraints for each unique vehicle, and the controls can be integrated with existing CANbus systems upon request.
Key performance characteristics include:
- Ultra-quiet operation at just 55 dBA at 23 feet, suitable for silent tactical environments
- Operation across a temperature range of -40°F to +120 °F
- Compatibility with diesel, JP-5, and JP-8 military fuels
- Low heat signature through a fully encapsulated design and liquid-cooled exhaust muffler
- Extended service intervals of over 250 operating hours between maintenance cycles
Vehicles Already in Service
Fischer Panda APUs are not a new concept in the field. The AGT5000 PE-150N series is used for automatically maintaining battery systems onboard M113 and M577 tracked vehicles. Fischer Panda DC APUs are also in use on the LAV, AAV, and M88.
The PE-150N series was developed specifically for upgrading M577 and M113 Command Post variants, with a nominal voltage of 28V DC and variable speed from 2,000 to 2,400 rpm according to required power load. Sound emission is only 55 dBA at 23 feet, making the generator completely inaudible beyond 66 feet.
Space Is Never Sacrificed
In an armored vehicle, interior space is at an absolute premium. Every component that goes in displaces something else. By being compact in size, Fischer Panda under-armor generators can be installed without sacrificing space for cargo or passengers. Fischer Panda designs units in the 300 to 750-pound range, providing high output without unnecessary weight.
Custom Engineering for Unique Platforms
No two armored vehicle programs have identical requirements. Fischer Panda’s engineering team works directly with defense integrators to configure APU solutions around specific vehicle geometries, power requirements, and operational parameters. From mounting configurations to control system integration, the design process starts with the mission requirement and works backward to the solution.
For defense procurement inquiries or to discuss a custom under-armor APU solution, contact Fischer Panda at 1-800-508-6494.
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