A rectangular tunnel boring machine is used to develop the underground space in the central Lujiazui area in Shanghai. Due to the oblique launching of the tunnel boring machine, axial deviation may occur to the tunneling. In the paper, a new rear propulsion system is designed for the tunnel boring machine. The new rear propulsion system is studied in terms of control functions and operation modes, and new overall structure, new control system, new operation system, new hydraulic system and new monitoring system are designed for the rear propulsion system. Conclusions drawn are as follows: 1) Due to application of the new rear propulsion system, the problem of the axial deviation that may occur due to the oblique launching of the tunnel boring machine can be solved; 2) The control of the rear propulsion system is effective and reliable, and the rear propulsion system is easy to be installed and operated; 3) The application of the rear propulsion system has achieved good result. The paper can provide reference for similar projects in the future.