At the 2026 Singapore Airshow, ST Engineering unveiled a new iteration of its Terrex S5 eight-wheeled armored vehicle, now equipped with a hybrid electric drive (HED) system. The Terrex S5 HED is designed to provide enhanced electric power to support auxiliary systems such as small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), offering a significant upgrade over previous models.
Hybrid Electric Drive Powers Unmanned Systems and More
The Terrex S5 HED features a downsized internal combustion engine coupled with electric motors that drive the vehicle’s individual axles. This hybrid system allows the vehicle to generate up to 400 kilowatt hours (kWh) of electrical power, a massive increase from the 20 kWh available in previous non-hybrid versions. This power is essential for operating equipment like drones, radars, communication systems, and laser technologies, according to Cheng Ze Wei, Director of Wheeled Platform Business at ST Engineering’s Land Systems division.
Enhanced Capacity and Internal Volume
One of the key advantages of the hybrid system is that it has enabled the Terrex S5 HED to gain 15% more internal volume compared to the version displayed at the 2024 Singapore Airshow. This is due to the reduced size of the engine, which provides more room for troops, equipment, and additional systems within the vehicle. The Terrex S5 HED has a gross weight of 35 tons, a payload capacity of 13 tons, and can carry 10 fully equipped troops along with two crew members.
Advanced Armament and C-UAS Capabilities
The vehicle on display was equipped with a ST Engineering Adder 30 remote control weapon station, which mounts a Leonardo 30mm X-Gun autocannon. This weapon system is capable of firing Air Burst Munitions and is optimized for Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS) operations, reflecting modern military needs for neutralizing threats from drones and other small unmanned systems.
The Terrex S5’s Role in Singapore’s Defense Strategy
The unveiling of the Terrex S5 HED follows the Singapore Ministry of Defence’s announcement on January 26, 2026, that it has signed a contract for an undisclosed number of Terrex S5 Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFVs), which will be named “Titan” in Singapore Army service. These vehicles will feature new digitalized systems, advanced vehicle electronics, and an integrated Command and Control (C2) architecture to support networked motorized operations. The Titan IFVs will be delivered starting in 2028, with the capability to support C-UAS operations using a 30mm cannon.
Conclusion
The Terrex S5 HED marks a significant leap in military vehicle technology, combining the robustness of an armored vehicle with the efficiency and power of a hybrid electric drive. Designed for modern warfare, this new iteration offers not only enhanced power for auxiliary systems but also a more sustainable and adaptable platform for defense operations. With its capabilities to operate drones, lasers, and counter unmanned aircraft systems, the Terrex S5 HED sets the stage for a new generation of military vehicles designed to meet the challenges of future conflicts.
