<p>A multi-stage tandem hydraulic cylinder design for stiffness enhancement in shield thrust systems was proposed, aiming to improve deformation resistance and deviation correction accuracy during tunneling in complex strata. Firstly, based on the tunneling conditions, the mechanical model of the uniform thrust system was established. Secondly, following stiffness series principles, a multi-stage tandem hydraulic cylinder was designed, in which progressively increasing piston areas were utilized to achieve higher system stiffness under identical strokes. Thirdly, the model was applied to a 6.15&#xa0;m-diameter shield machine equipped with 24 sets of hydraulic cylinders, and the deformation resistance along with deviation correction accuracy were evaluated through moment response angle analysis. Finally, a virtual prototype of the uniform thrust system was constructed for validation. Results demonstrated that the proposed system significantly enhanced stiffness, reduced the main machine’s moment response angle by 47%, and increased deviation correction accuracy to 91%. Thus, a distinct and effective structural solution was provided, offering theoretical and technical support for the stable operation of high-precision shield thrust systems.</p>