Nooteboom and Rheinmetall introduce advanced 8-axle defence trailer at EUROSATORY

At EUROSATORY in Paris, the new defence trailer from Rheinmetall and Nooteboom Trailers was presented. EUROSATORY is an international defence and security exhibition where the latest innovative defence equipment is showcased. Rheinmetall displayed a wide range of innovations at its stand, including the brand-new HET (Heavy Equipment Transporter) trailer developed and built in collaboration with Nooteboom. The trailer is an 8-axle Manoovr MPL semi low loader with pendulum axles, fully configured for military use.

The new MPL-121-08(D) has been specifically designed to transport heavy tracked and wheeled vehicles safely and efficiently under the most demanding conditions. With a technical maximum gross weight of 121,000 kg and an impressive payload of 92,000 kg, this trailer combines exceptionally high capacity with a design fully tailored to military applications. Key considerations include off-road mobility, compatibility with military tractors, safe load securing, and optimal usability within military logistics chains.

A distinctive feature of this trailer is its excellent off-road capability. Thanks to a suspension travel of 600 mm and a hydraulically adjustable gooseneck, the trailer can adapt to highly uneven terrain. The gooseneck is also hydraulically connected to the hydropneumatic suspension of the first three axle lines, ensuring sufficient fifth wheel load on the tractor at all times. This guarantees that the towing vehicle maintains optimal traction, even under severe off-road conditions.

In addition, the MPL-121-08(D) offers maximum flexibility when loading various types of vehicles. The trailer is equipped with adjustable guides for tracked vehicles, allowing for quick and precise positioning. For wheeled vehicles, adjustable and removable wheel chocks are available, ensuring safe positioning and load securing. This flexibility makes the trailer suitable for a wide range of military equipment.

The trailer also stands out in terms of operational capabilities in the field. It features an integrated recovery solution, where rollers and sheaves support the use of winches. This allows vehicles to be pulled onto the trailer easily and in a controlled manner. The gooseneck includes a working platform with railing, enabling safe operation, including via remote control. Furthermore, the ramps are hydraulically adjustable in width, allowing them to be adapted to different track widths of the load. Hydraulic rear support legs provide stability during the loading and unloading of heavy vehicles.

The trailer is also equipped with an advanced steering system. The axles can be manually steered via a wireless remote control, even independently of the tractor. After manual steering, the axles can easily be returned to the straight-ahead position using the ASA system (Automatic Straight-Ahead Alignment), contributing to a safe and efficient driving experience.

On photo from left to right: Maurice Geraets (member of the Supervisory Board of Nooteboom Trailers), Raymond Belderink (CTO Nooteboom Trailers), Christoph Müller (CEO Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles GmbH), Marinka Nooteboom (CEO Nooteboom Trailers), Dr. Björn Bernhard, (CEO Rheinmetall Vehicle Systems Europe), Dr. Nick Stirban (CEO Rheinmetall Automecanica SRL), Leonhard Ingenpass (CFO Rheinmetall Automecanica SRL) at EUROSATORY in Paris.

During the development of this trailer, strong emphasis was placed on standardisation and interoperability within NATO structures. The design complies with various military standards (STANAG) as well as relevant international standards in areas such as chassis, braking systems, electrical systems and load securing. This makes the trailer seamlessly deployable in international missions and joint operations.

The MPL-121-08(D) therefore represents a future-proof solution for heavy military transport. The combination of proven Nooteboom transport technology and Rheinmetall’s defence-specific expertise results in a robust, reliable and versatile trailer, fully tailored to the requirements of modern military operations.