A system includes a permanent magnet generator (PMG) with a generator shaft defining a longitudinal axis. A brake system includes a brake shaft with a first end operatively connected to the generator shaft for selectively rotating with the generator shaft or braking to slow the generator shaft. A shear shaft is operatively connected to a second end of the brake shaft axially opposite the first end along the longitudinal axis. The brake system includes a press fit sleeve engaged about the brake shaft and an actuator. The actuator is operatively connected to actuate a pawl between a first position spaced apart from the press fit sleeve for normal operation of the PMG, and a second position engaged with the press fit sleeve to apply braking forces to the press fit sleeve and to the generator shaft.