A hybrid electric propulsion system is provided that includes a thermal engine, at least one electric generator, at least one lubrication fluid pump, at least one electric motor, and a controller. The electric generator is driven by the thermal engine, and is configured to produce electrical power. The lubrication fluid pump is configured to provide a volumetric flow rate of lubrication fluid to at least one component of the thermal engine. The electric motor is configured to drive the lubrication fluid pump using electrical power from the electric generator. The controller is in communication with the electric motor and a memory device storing instructions, which instructions when executed cause the controller to control the electric motor to drive the lubrication fluid pump to produce lubrication fluid at a determined volumetric fluid flow rate to the at least one component of the thermal engine.