Pratt & Whitney has entered into an agreement with Prague-based PBS Group to develop a next-generation auxiliary power unit (APU) for use across commercial and military aircraft including fighters, rotorcraft and business jets.

The partnership was formed through the support of the Industrial Cooperation Section of the Czech Ministry of Defense, which has long sought to connect domestic and international companies in strengthening the country’s defence industry.

Radka Konderlová, director general for industrial cooperation at the Czech Ministry of Defense & Armed Forces, says: “PBS Group is a unique company both in the Czech Republic and globally. Its cooperation with RTX, one of the largest companies in the defense industry, is not only proof of PBS's capabilities, but also a testament to the strength of Czech industry as a whole. The project between PBS and Pratt & Whitney will significantly increase the competence and capacity of Czech industry, which is essential for ensuring security of supply in crisis situations.”

The APU is designed to provide the highest power density in its class, offering maximum performance while reducing form factor and weight. It will allow new aircraft design opportunities and additional capabilities, including greater electrical output, improved thermal management and support for electronic warfare technologies.

Jessica Villardi, vice president of fighter and mobility programs at Pratt & Whitney, says: “Advanced APUs are essential for both defense and commercial aviation, delivering the reliable, efficient power needed to keep aircraft mission-ready on the ground and optimized for performance in the air. This work with PBS underscores Pratt & Whitney's commitment to our customers and our focus on developing next generation turbine technologies to support future industry needs.”

Both RTX and PBS bring long-standing experience to the collaboration, with RTX having produced APUs for decades and PBS having developed them since the 1970s.