Daimler Truck and Arquus, a John Cockerill Group company, have been awarded the major “PL6T” contract by the French Ministry of Defense. It comprises the qualification and delivery of 7,000 military trucks for the French army. The term “PL6T” (Porteurs Logistiques 6 Tonnes) refers to the vehicle class, which is designed for a payload of six tons.
The procurement program is intended to improve the logistical capacities and operational capability of the French armed forces. The background to this is the accelerated modernization in view of increasing requirements. The vehicles will be produced and delivered over a period of more than 10 years.
Thierry Renaudin, CEO John Cockerill Defense and President of Arquus: “We are proud to have once again won the confidence of the Ministry of Defense, especially as the ‘PL6T’ program is of great importance to the French armed forces. The cooperation with Daimler Truck enables us to fully meet the requirements of this procurement program. We will provide the armed forces with a new vehicle that meets the highest global standards and is designed for demanding missions.”
Daniel Zittel, Head of Defence Sales at Daimler Truck adds: “This program is much more than just a contract – it is a strong example of what European cooperation can achieve. Together with Arquus, we are showing how French and German companies can work together to deliver reliable and modern solutions for those who defend our security.”
Vehicle technology tailored to the requirements of the French army
The new “Zetros by Arquus” was presented by the two companies for the first time in October 2025 at the “Forum Entreprises Défense” in Versailles Satory. The truck combines the Mercedes-Benz Zetros vehicle platform with the integration, militarization and service support of Arquus. The vehicle has been developed for use in demanding areas and is intended to contribute to improving the security and mobility of the French armed forces, according to a recent press release from the two companies.
Accordingly, all vehicles ordered by France are based on a Zetros chassis with three axles and are equipped with the Mercedes-Benz OM 460 engine with Euro 3 certification, which works reliably even when refueling with low-grade fuels in the area of operation. All models also have a fully automatic transmission with torque converter.
The vehicles are hood trucks, with the driver’s cab positioned behind the front axle. The French armed forces have been using this vehicle concept for decades. Due to its low height, the “Zetros by Arquus” offers several advantages in terms of tactical and strategic mobility: the operational capability in wooded areas and residential areas with tunnels and bridges is increased and the transportation of the vehicles by air or rail is facilitated. This design is also particularly suitable for mounting a protected cabin, as its heavy weight is distributed over the front and rear axles. Even with a protected cab, the “Zetros by Arquus” retains its payload of six tons.
Several vehicle variants are supplied, including troop transporters, transport vehicles, vehicles with shelter superstructures, variants with crane equipment and trucks with cable winches. All configurations offer extensive customization options and can be tailored to specific logistical requirements.
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Based on its many years of experience, Arquus is responsible for the comprehensive support and maintenance of the vehicles over their entire life cycle. Daimler Truck supplies spare parts and contributes its expertise on the Zetros vehicle platform.
Industrial commitment in France
The basic vehicles are manufactured at the Daimler Truck plants in Wörth am Rhein (Germany) and Molsheim (France).
Militarization, system integration, assembly of protected cabins, support and maintenance are carried out at Arquus’ French plants in Limoges, Garchizy and Saint-Nazaire and contribute directly to employment and the preservation of industrial skills in France. Arquus currently employs around 2,000 people in France.
Here for more news about the French armed forces.
