STX Engine and CTNS Sign Strategic MOU to Jointly Launch Multi-Purpose Battery Pack

STX Engine announced that it has signed a strategic MOU with a battery pack company, CTNS, and officially launched a multi-purpose battery pack brand, SIMBA (STX Engine Infinite Multi Purpose Battery). 

By signing the partnership, STX Engine and CTNS aim to establish a foothold for expansion to rapidly growing military secondary battery pack market and collaborate on the development of battery pack optimized for multi-purpose fields. 

After signing the partnership, STX Engine and CTNS unveiled the first prototype of combat 6T battery pack. The product is expected to replace the currently used combat lead-acid batteries as well as replace the secondary battery market demand based on its high energy density.  

The energy density of newly unveiled SIMBA lithium-ion 6T battery pack is more than five times higher than the conventional lead-acid batteries for higher power output and lifespan.  

STX Engine Unveils Export-Oriented and Future Marine Power Solution at MADEX 2025

STX Engine showcases its export-oriented future marine power solution at the International Maritime Defense Industry Exhibition (MADEX 2025) held at Busan BEXCO from May 28 (Wed) to May 31 (Sat). 

During the exhibition, STX Engine presents various products dsigned for marine platforms, including diesel engines, propulsion systems, and electronic communication equipment for the Navy and Coast Guard. Especially, STX Engine will highlight the global competitiveness of K-defense exports by exhibiting the actual diesel engines mounted on frigates and patrol vessels for the Philippines and Peru.

For domestic vessels, STX Engine exhibits the 1163-series propulsion engines used in the latest Ulsan-class frigates and high-speed vessels and the 4000-series generator engines and emergency power engines applied to submarines and destroyers. STX Engine also plans to demonstrate the total solution for naval propulsion systems by exhibiting the surface drive system, SeaRex 120S.  

For electronic communication equipment, STX Engine exhibits TASS-MFM (towed array sonar system) and submarine navigation radar antenna set developed based on its original technology. TASS-MFM is a sonar system optimized for long-range submarine detection and medium-range torpedo detection, and STX Engine is currently working with the Korean Research Institute for Defense Technology Planning and Advancement (KRIT) on a project to renovate and develop an export-oriented towed array sonar system. The project is currently developing all-purpose equipment for export, and it is expected to be completed by 2027. Through the project, STX Engine aims to provide the optimal solution for enhancing the ocean surveillance and defense. 

With its defense diesel engine production technologies accumulated over 48 years, STX Engine is significantly contributing to the national defense and ocean sovereignty protection through stable localization and supply of high-performance and high-quality propulsion and generator diesel engines for the Korean Navy and Coast Guard. 

 STX Engine has constructed integrated power solutions based on years of accumulated experience, and STX Engine is now leading the custom-made products for increasing K-defense exports and next-generation eco-friendly power systems based on smart technologies for future battlefield.   

Lee Sang-su, CEO of STX Engine, said, “In MADEX 2025, we plan to exhibit our total marine defense solutions and introduce the achievements in expanding K-Defense exports. We will further strengthen our comprehensive capabilities to meet the needs of domestic and international customers.”

STX Engine Completes Type Approval Test for New LNG Dual-Fuel Engine 'L35·44DF CD'

STX Engine has successfully completed the type approval test for its new LNG dual-fuel engine, the L35·44DF CD.

The type approval test was held at STX Engine's headquarters in Changwon from July 7th to 11th, with participation from representatives of six major classification societies: LR (UK), ABS (USA), DNV (Norway), BV (France), CCS (China), CR (Taiwan).

The L35·44DF CD engine is an upgraded version of the L35·44DF CR, an LNG dual-fuel engine that was first delivered to customers by MAN Energy Solutions in 2015.

Based on the design, manufacturing technology, and service experience accumulated through the years of collaboration between the two companies, STX Engine and MAN ES began joint development of the engine in 2022. The project was successfully completed through close cooperation between both companies.

Going forward, the two companies plan to continue working together to meet the demands of the future fuel market, focusing on improvements in fuel efficiency and exhaust emissions.

The engine has attracted significant attention from major shipping companies even before the type approval test, as it applies the Adaptive Combustion Control (ACC) system. This system monitors the combustion state in real time and ensures optimal fuel injection conditions, minimizing methane slip and significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

According to STX Engine, the engine's output is approximately 16% higher than competing engines (with 560kW per cylinder), which means fewer cylinders or engines can be used, leading to more efficient engine room space and easier maintenance. This makes the engine even more user-friendly.

In addition, following the successful type approval test of the L35·44DF CR engine, the commercial availability of the newly approved L35·44DF CD engine is expected to generate significant interest in the market for marine power generation and propulsion engines.

Since its founding in December 1976 as an engine manufacturing company, STX Engine has grown into a globally competitive engine manufacturer and a leader in the electronics and communications sectors, based on its accumulated expertise and experience, especially in the defense industry. The company produces various industrial engines, including diesel engines for large container ships, LNG carriers, tankers, and engines for land plants, gas engines, and railway vehicles, exporting to markets in Europe, Asia, and South America.


Source: eNews Today (http://www.enewstoday.co.kr)

A Big Deal with Penske Australia for Redback Vehicle Engines

STX Engine, a prominent South Korean defense technology company, announced on March 7 that it has signed an 84 billion won supply contract and technology transfer license agreement with Penske Australia. This significant deal involves the supply of diesel engines for Australia's next-generation tracked infantry fighting vehicle, the Redback, marking a pivotal moment in STX Engine's evolution from a technology importer to a global technology exporter.

STX Engine, which first entered the domestic defense industry diesel engine sector in 1977 through a diesel engine overhaul agreement with German Rolls-Royce Solutions, has steadily built its reputation by producing localized engines for military applications. The company has been exporting K9 self-propelled howitzer engines to countries such as India, Poland, Norway, and Türkiye, demonstrating its capability to meet the operational requirements and technical specifications demanded by the international market.

The agreement with Penske Australia is set to run until 2027, during which STX Engine will sequentially supply diesel engines for the Redback armored vehicle. A key component of the deal is the technology transfer package, which includes establishing a local production base in Australia. 

The signing ceremony, attended by Lee Sang-soo, CEO of STX Engine, and key executives from Penske, formalized the cooperation between the two companies. Penske Australia, known for providing mobility solutions across defense, transportation, energy, construction, and mining sectors in Australia and New Zealand, is a strategic partner in this venture.

"As local production and technology transfer are becoming key competitive advantages in the defense market, we will solidify our position as a global technology partner based on this Australian project," stated STX Engine. CEO Lee further emphasized the significance of the collaboration, noting, "This collaboration is an important achievement that demonstrates the international trust in STX Engine's technology." He added, "STX Engine is now transforming from a simple technology cooperation company with overseas original manufacturers to a domestic research and development specialist, making a leap forward."

from Businesskorea

A Giant Leap Toward Sustainable Shipping: Ammonia Dual-Fuel Vessel Launched

STX Service Americas, LLC celebrates a groundbreaking milestone achieved by STX Engine and partners in Korea. On November 27, the first-ever ammonia dual-fuel test vessel was launched in Goseong. This innovative vessel, a collaboration of 15 cutting-edge companies, including STX Engine, marks a significant leap toward decarbonizing maritime transport.

This 36-meter, 500-ton vessel utilizes a hybrid fuel system combining ammonia—a carbon-neutral alternative—with fossil fuels. By dramatically reducing CO₂ emissions, it aligns with the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) carbon neutrality goals and showcases a proactive solution for the maritime industry's stricter environmental regulations.

As part of this transformative project, STX Engine contributed to developing key components, including engines and emission control systems tailored for ammonia dual-fuel usage.

𝗔𝗺𝗺𝗼𝗻𝗶𝗮 𝗗𝘂𝗮𝗹-𝗙𝘂𝗲𝗹 𝗩𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗹 𝗟𝗮𝘂𝗻𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗱

collaboration of 15 cutting-edge companies, including STX Engine

Going beyond and embracing change 2025

STX Engine believes that the difficult but very necessary decisions taken in 2022 to ensure STX Service Americas could correctly represent STX Engine, continue to create positive results. The STX Engine teams both in Korea and in the USA now work in harmony to create the best result for STX Engine customers.

Our goal in 2022 was to build upon STX Engine core values and ensure STX Service Americas followed a clear code of conduct, mission, vision and values. Our mission statement at STX Service Americas has always been clear and it is important that it is never compromised or undermined.

Mission: To provide excellent value in our service, so customers can focus on their core business.
Vision: To be your primary contact for maritime, offshore and power plant services.
Core Values: Business Relationship, Customer Satisfaction, Employee Passion.

STX Service Americas as the only OEM extension for STX Engine in the Americas understands our responsibility is to ensure the standards of honesty, integrity and openness are always available to our customers.

Challenges in 2023 provide opportunities to gain a greater understanding of the needs of the owners and operators. STX Service Americas has strengthened our technical services based in Houston. This has significantly increased our technical and service capabilities to support the Americas. New STX Service Americas key alliances in Brazil have been addressed to ensure the best interests of Brazilian customers will be served.

For 2025 the focus will continue to be on STX Service Americas core values, highly competitive pricing and unquestionable quality of STX Engine Genuine Parts & Services. STX Engine is committed to continuing to serve all STX Engine owners within North America, Central America and South America both Onshore (Power Stations) and at sea. With access to a worldwide network of experienced Service Engineers, STX Service Americas will continue to strategically expand the placement of experienced service engineers in key locations.

As always, STX Service Americas is prepared for 2025 and looking forward to assisting customers achieve their goals of “On-time” and “On-budget”.

All our best from the STX Engine and STX Service Americas team,

Going beyond in 2025,

Going beyond

and embracing change 2025

As always, STX Service Americas is prepared for 2025 and looking forward to assisting customers achieve their goals of “On-time” and “On-budget”.

Going beyond in 2025,

SMV1000, Celebrating Innovation

We recognize the dedication of our armed forces and take this opportunity to celebrate an impressive achievement by our parent company, STX Engine. We are proud to announce the launch of a next-generation engine for the K9 self-propelled howitzer—an exciting advancement that strengthens global defense solutions!

In just three years, STX Engine developed a 1000-horsepower engine that not only equals the performance of its predecessor from MTU solutions but also delivers 5% better fuel efficiency and a lighter design!

This was made possible through a government-backed R&D initiative, collaborating with esteemed institutions such as the Korea Automotive Technology Institute and Hanyang University, resulting in the successful localization of over 500 critical components.

In the words of STX Engine CEO, Lee Sang-soo: “By completing the localization of the K9 howitzer engine and establishing a robust production system, we are poised to expand our export markets, unlocking significant economic potential for the future.”

As we honor the bravery of our armed forces, we also look ahead to a future driven by innovation, global collaboration, and new opportunities in the defense sector. Join us in celebrating this incredible achievement and the spirit of excellence at STX Service Americas, LLC!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7MeHvxTQEuo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hNxQA481Kjo

V32/40 Low-load operation and the Recommendation

After 500 hours of continuous operation with liquid fuel at a low load in the range of 20% to 25% of the full load, the engine should be ran-in again. The engine must be operated at > 70 % of the full load for some periods in order to reduce the deposits in the cylinders and exhaust gas in turbocharger.

[Maintenance for System component]

The LO low pressure alarm is one of the alarm parameters for the lo system for engine start-up (warm) rather than for the Pre LO pump. If the alarm sounds or the pressure is lower than that of other engines, check the condition of the engine and the system components.

Many parts including pump, cooler, filter and valves, are assembled into the LO system, which can also cause pressure drops due to coolers and filters. These parts have different inspection periods based on engine operating condition, fluid status, and used hours. Therefore, based on users’ requirement, they should be registered on PMS list, and many different factors should be observed. If there are any difference from original status, LO system should be inspected and managed.

[The role of the filter as an Engine Protection]

The Filter in the case of the V32/40 engine is a 30 micron Auto backflushing filter. It takes out most of the particles in the oil which are larger than approx 30 micron at the widest point of the narrowest cross section.

[The role of the purifier as the Lubricant Oil Cleaning]

The role of the purifier is actual cleaning of the lubricant oil heat of the oil is sufficient to facilitate it. (min. approx. 95 deg.). The particles cleaned out will go into the sludge tank. The size of remaining dirt particles after the purifying stage would normally and nominally be smaller than 5 micronmeter. This means that the purifiers should run always when the engines are running. If it is not done, any dirt particles in the lubricant oil system smaller than approx. 30 micrometer could be re-circulated again and again.

Key factor in reducing component wear: Centrifugal by-pass oil filter

Oil is the life-blood of the engine and clean oil is essential if an engine is to operate efficiently throughout its working life.

Emission reduction technologies such as exhaust gas recirculation have been shown to increase the level of contaminant, especially soot in the lubricating oil. Soot particles are sub-micron in size. Soot is a hard pro-wear particle. High soot levels within a lubricating oil have been shown to be responsible for accelerated wear of critical engine components. Traditional full flow and by-pass filters are unable to remove soot contaminant as it is too small to be captured. Centrifugal filters are proven to be effective at removing soot.

Centrifugal filter has proved to be the key factor in reducing component wear whilst increasing the oil and engine life cycle and provides a cleanable, low maintenance and environmentally friendly solution throughout the life span of the engines.

The following advantages are obtained with the Centrifugal by-pass oil filter.

l  Reducing critical component wear of bearings, pistons, piston rings…etc.

l  Lower maintenance cost of ship owner.

l  Maintaining oil cleanliness for longer periods.

l  Cleanable, environmentally friendly waste disposal.

l  Prevent accidents by contamination of lube oil such as camshaft cam and bearing shell damage…etc.

Please note that a centrifugal filter installation cannot replace the necessary function of the lube oil purifier. and this solutions are available as retrofit for all GenSets.

Posidonia 2024: Navigating the Future of Maritime Excellence

Greece, known for its rich maritime history, once again played host to the prestigious Posidonia event in 2024. Held biennially, Posidonia is a beacon for the global maritime industry, attracting industry leaders, innovators, and enthusiasts from around the world.

This year's Posidonia, held in the vibrant city of Athens, surpassed expectations, showcasing the latest advancements and trends in maritime technology, sustainability, and business strategies. With a focus on navigating the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly evolving industry, Posidonia 2024 provided a platform for insightful discussions, fruitful networking, and groundbreaking collaborations.

Attendees had the opportunity to explore an extensive exhibition featuring state-of-the-art vessels, cutting-edge equipment, and innovative solutions designed to enhance efficiency, safety, and environmental sustainability in maritime operations. From autonomous ships to renewable energy technologies, Posidonia 2024 highlighted the industry's commitment to embracing innovation and driving positive change.

STX Global Network Unites at Posidonia 2024

Our global network, STX Service Europe, attended Posidonia 2024 as an exhibitor. This prestigious event provided an invaluable opportunity for our teams from STX Service America, STX Service Singapore, and STX Engine (our headquarters) to converge and discuss critical aspects of our business and industry:

  1. Market Trends and Opportunities: Evaluating current trends in the maritime industry and identifying new business opportunities to keep us ahead of the curve.

  2. Innovation and Technology: Sharing insights and developments in innovative technologies that can enhance our services and products, ensuring we remain leaders in the field.

  3. Customer Feedback and Satisfaction: Reviewing customer feedback to ensure our services meet the highest standards and address any issues promptly, fostering stronger customer relationships.

  4. Operational Efficiency: Discussing strategies to improve operational efficiency across all regions, optimizing our processes and performance.

  5. Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring that all our global operations comply with international regulations and standards, maintaining our reputation for reliability and integrity.

  6. Sustainability Initiatives: Collaborating on initiatives to reduce our environmental footprint and promote sustainability within the industry, reflecting our commitment to responsible business practices.

  7. Employee Development: Focusing on training and development programs to enhance the skills and knowledge of our workforce, supporting their professional growth and our organizational excellence.

Engaging with Customers

Posidonia 2024 was also a fantastic opportunity for us to meet with our customers and potential customers in real-time. These face-to-face interactions allowed us to gain a deeper understanding of their needs and expectations, discuss their challenges, and explore how our solutions can best serve their requirements. This direct engagement is invaluable for building stronger relationships and ensuring we continue to deliver exceptional value to our clients.

Through numerous meetings and discussions, we were able to:

  • Identify Key Challenges: Listening to our customers allowed us to identify the key challenges they face in their operations, enabling us to tailor our solutions to address these specific issues.

  • Showcase Our Capabilities: Demonstrating our latest technologies and services provided our customers with a clear understanding of how we can help them achieve their goals.

  • Gather Valuable Feedback: Receiving direct feedback from our customers helps us continuously improve our offerings and better meet their needs.

  • Strengthen Partnerships: Reinforcing our commitment to supporting our customers fosters trust and strengthens our long-term partnerships.

Looking Ahead

This meeting was instrumental in aligning our strategies and fostering stronger collaboration across our global network. As we look ahead, the insights and plans formulated during Posidonia 2024 will drive our efforts to innovate, improve, and expand our services, ensuring we continue to meet the evolving needs of our customers and the maritime industry.

We are excited about the future and the opportunities that lie ahead. Our participation in Posidonia 2024 reaffirms our commitment to excellence and our position as a leading player in the global maritime sector.

Thank you to all who made this event a success. We look forward to leveraging the knowledge and connections gained to propel STX to new heights.

Until we meet again at Posidonia 2026, let us continue to navigate the seas of opportunity, together charting a course towards a brighter and more sustainable maritime future.

STX ENGINE has been finally selected as localization developer for an electronic fuel injection diesel engine

After STX ENGINE has been finally selected as localization developer for an electronic fuel injection for a multi launch rocket system Chunmoo, it signed an agreement with KRIT (The Korea Research Institute for Defense Technology Planning and Advancement) for a support project for the localization of weapon parts.

As the diesel engines in Chunmoo currently operated by the ROK Army have been discontinued or have reached their end of life, there was a need to develop an alternative engine. Accordingly, the development of the electronic fuel injection was promoted as a support project for localization of weapon parts (aka localization of strategic weapon parts).

It is expected that the development of this engine will enable it to stably field the weapons and cope with changes in weapon systems by resolving issues incurred by discontinuation of existing engines. Moreover, the development of weapon’s major parts is expected to contribute to revitalizing K-defense exports by eliminating factors that hinder the export of combat vehicles and engines.

In 2021, STX Engine was selected as a localization developer for 1000-horsepower diesel engine for the K9 self-propelled howitzer which is one of the most prestigious weapons of the ROK Army. After completing engine prototype production and performance testing three years after the start of development, this paved the way for STX Engine to export to countries with restricted exports, such as countries in Middle Eastern and Egypt.

Lee Sang-Soo, the CEO of STX Engine, said “STX Engine is the only defense engine manufacturer in Korea with 45 years of defense engine manufacturing experience and technical know-how, and now it is growing into one of the most trusted companies in the world after fulfilling our customers’ due date, quality service and technical supports. STX Engine will do its best to localize and develop electronic fuel injection for tracked vehicles within the schedule so that they can help to stabilize forces and to grow together with a number of small domestic partners.”

Technical Information - ENGINE OVERSPEED SHUTDOWN SYSTEM

This service letter contains important information regarding the in-troduction of an improved solenoid valve for the overspeed protection system 

of the above-mentioned engine types and for easy verification of the function of the secondary air-operated over speed shutdown system, Work card M5090105-14 (Function test of shutdown) has been updated.  

Please discard the previous version and insert this one in your instruction manual. 

For details, please refer to the MES service letter No.: SL2023-750/JNN “engine over speed shutdown system” enclosed. 

Action code: at first opportunity

If you have questions for this technical bulletin, please contact us at any time.

STX has begun the development of exportable TASS (Towed Array Sonar Systems)

STX has begun developing exportable TASS (Towed Array Sonar Systems) after signing a Weapon System Modification and Development Support Project Agreement with KRIT (The Korea Research Institute for Defense Technology Planning and Advancement) on Wednesday, December 13th.

This project will be carried out from 2023 to 2027 with a total cost of 11.4 billion won, and is a project to remodel and develop the TASS (SQR-250K) used in frigates and destroyers into an export model.

The exportable TASS has an active sonar receiver system added to the SQR-250K currently operated by the ROK Navy. Through this, the goal is to strengthen submarine and torpedo detection functions and to improve technology and price competitiveness compared to overseas competitors' products with reduced size and weight. STX ENGINE plans to accelerate overseas exports in the future, starting with the development of exportable TASS.

STX, a specialized company that has supplied radar and sonar equipment to the ROK Navy for the past 30 years, is expected to enhance domestic technology through this development and further secure its position in overseas markets through exports.

First fire of STX-MAN 6L35/44DF CD

successfully completed, First firing on Sep. 8th 2023

L35/44DF CR to L35/44DF CD

Improved on the economic performance and maximized convenience

560kW per cylinder, increased capacity

Eco-friendly engines, satisfied with GHG emission regulation

Minimize of the methane slip

Qualified to change Diesel to Gas under 100% load operation

Selected as a localized manufacturer for electronic multi-purpose diesel engine for Defense Industry

STX Engine has grown into Korea's unrivaled defense industry engine manufacturer through projects such as developing a diesel engine for K9 self-propelled howitzers

Recently, STX Engine has been finally selected as a localization developer of electronic multi-purpose diesel engines for three types of tracked vehicles such as the K21 infantry armored vehicle. And STX Engine signed a development support project agreement with the Korea Research Institute for Defense Technology Planning and Advancement (KRIT) for localization of weapon parts

The diesel engines in the K21 infantry fighting vehicle, K-30 Biho and K200A1 fighting vehicle currently operated by the ROK Army have been discontinued or have reached their end of life. As a result, there was a need to develop an alternative engine, and the development of an electronic multi-purpose diesel engine was promoted as a support project for localization of weapon parts (aka localization of strategic weapon parts). Through this, it is expected that the problem of limiting follow-up logistics support due to the discontinuation of the mechanical engine will be resolved, and it will be possible to stabilize forces and to respond to weapon system changes in the future. Additionally, this development is expected to contribute to revitalizing exports of Korean defense products by removing obstacles to exporting combat vehicles and engines.

In 2021, STX Engine was selected as a localization developer for 1000-horsepower diesel engine for the K9 self-propelled howitzer which is one of the most prestigious weapons of the Korean Army. This paved the way for exports to countries with restricted exports, such as Middle Eastern countries and Egypt.

CEO of STX Engine, said, “STX Engine is the only defense engine manufacturer in Korea with 45 years of defense engine production experience and technical know-how, and now it is growing into one of the most trusted companies in the world. STX Engine will do its best to localize and develop multi-purpose diesel engines for tracked vehicles within the schedule so that they can help to stabilize forces and to grow together with a number of small domestic partners.”

STX Engine is recently developing a diesel engine for the K9 self-propelled howitzer and a performance enhancing diesel engine for the K1A2 tank. Ah it has been selected as a developer of electronic multi-purpose diesel engines for tracked vehicles, STX Engine is establishing itself as a professional engine manufacturer in Korea. On the top of that, STX Engine is also planning to develop a hybrid engine system suitable for future ground weapons to respond to changes in the battlefield environment.