German Armed Forces awards Rosenbauer long-term contract for airport firefighting vehicles

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Rosenbauer’s significant agreement with the German Armed Forces

Rosenbauer Deutschland GmbH, part of the Rosenbauer Group, has received a substantial order from the Procurement Office of the German Armed Forces.

As reported by Rosenbauer, the framework agreement includes the delivery of up to 60 airport firefighting vehicles over the next twenty years.

This initiative will completely replace the current fleet within this performance category.

The agreement outlines the delivery of 35 PANTHER 8×8 vehicles by 2029, with the initial batch expected by 2026.

These vehicles feature a 12,500-litre water tank and a High Reach Extendable Turret (HRET), enhancing their efficiency and capability.

The vehicles will serve defensive fire protection needs at German airports and during international deployments.

The PANTHER’s role in Rosenbauer’s success

Sebastian Wolf, CEO of Rosenbauer International AG, highlighted the historical significance of the PANTHER model, stating: “When we launched the PANTHER in 1991, we redefined the product category of airport firefighting vehicles.

“Like no other product, it embodies performance, safety, and reliability.

“Since then, over 2,000 such vehicles have left our factories in Austria and the USA.”

Wolf expressed satisfaction with the contract: “I am pleased that the PANTHER’s concept convinced the German Armed Forces in the bidding process and that we were able to succeed with our offer.

“This framework agreement with the German Armed Forces is the largest we have ever concluded.”

Importance of airport fire protection for German Armed Forces

The German Armed Forces rely heavily on the operational capacity of airports both domestically and internationally.

In Germany, airports play a crucial role in national defence.

Additionally, tactical air transport is essential for overseas missions.

Ensuring defensive fire protection at these airports is therefore vital for their operation.

The newly ordered PANTHER vehicles will significantly enhance the fire protection capabilities at these strategic locations, aligning with the German Armed Forces’ operational requirements.

Ziegler’s plant fire department celebrates 75th anniversary

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Anniversary event honours 75 years of Ziegler’s plant fire department

In July 2024, Albert Ziegler GmbH’s plant fire department celebrated its 75th anniversary.

The event welcomed current and former members of the fire department, regional plant fire department comrades, and Giengen’s Lord Mayor, Mr. Dieter Henle.

The Ziegler plant fire department was established on 30 May 1949.

Over the past 75 years, it has become a vital part of the company, handling not only fire protection but also technical assistance, environmental protection, and preventive fire measures.

Historic operations include the major fire at Ködel & Böhm in Lauingen (1955), the Nachtigall building fire in 1963, and the disaster operation in Nattheim in 1968.

As of July 2024, the department consists of 24 members.

New leadership at the helm

During the anniversary celebrations, Florian Sing was officially appointed as the new commander of the plant fire department, succeeding the retiring Josef Szaszur.

Florian Sing previously served as deputy commander.

Lukas Klemt was named the new deputy commander.

Uwe Lang, member of the Board of Management at Ziegler and head of the plant fire department, highlighted the department’s broader role in the region: “Our team is not only active in operations at Ziegler, but also supports the fire department of Giengen during daytime standby duty and during major fires and disaster operations in the town and surrounding districts.”

Cooperation with the fire department of Giengen

The Ziegler plant fire department collaborates closely with the Giengen fire department, providing transport services for Ziegler employees who are also fire department members, ensuring they can respond to emergencies during work hours.

The plant fire department responds to 25 to 30 calls annually, with a maximum of 50 deployments per year.

It also engages in fire safety education, training employees in the use of fire extinguishers.

The anniversary celebration on 19 July 2024 was an opportunity to honour the department’s history and the dedication of its members.

Ziegler plant fire department’s significant operations

Notable recent operations by the plant fire department include the fire at the Ziegler hose weaving mill in March 2018 and various storm response efforts.

These operations have underscored the department’s importance in both protecting Ziegler’s facilities and aiding the surrounding community during emergencies.

Berlin fire department enhances fleet with Rosenbauer electric firefighting vehicles

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Berlin fire department deploys electric fire trucks

As reported by Rosenbauer, the Berlin Fire Department is deploying five additional electric firefighting vehicles from Rosenbauer into regular service.

This move follows a successful test phase of a pre-series vehicle, making it the largest fleet of electric firefighting vehicles in the world.

The newly developed vehicles can operate nearly all missions in fully electric mode.

They offer enhanced safety and ergonomics for the crew, climate protection, and effective functionality through their sophisticated design.

The Berlin Fire Department initially tested a fully electric fire truck in daily operations in 2020, which led to over 90% of operations being completed in fully electric mode during the 13-month test phase.

Advanced technology and sustainability

The RT vehicles are built on a Rosenbauer chassis with all-wheel drive, independent suspension, and pneumatic suspension.

They feature adjustable ground clearance for various operational needs.

The vehicles are powered by two electric motors with a combined continuous output of 260 kW and supported by high-voltage batteries with a total capacity of 132 kWh.

The vehicles can be charged with direct and alternating current, allowing for quick replenishment of energy used in operations.

The RT’s design includes a low centre of gravity for stability, an electric mirror replacement system, and a 360-degree bird-view camera system to assist in manoeuvring.

Customised firefighting equipment

The firefighting equipment on the RT was implemented according to the Berlin Fire Department’s specifications.

It includes an N25 normal pressure integrated pump, a 1,200-liter water tank, a 100-liter foam compound tank, and various pressure outlets.

The crew compartment is fully integrated with the driver’s cab, featuring advanced control systems and rotating seats for improved interaction.

The vehicles also include modern LED technology for warning devices and lighting, providing excellent illumination with minimal power consumption.

Two remotely controlled searchlights on the roof enhance visibility during operations, and an integrated power supply unit allows external devices to be operated from the RT.

Enhancing operational capabilities

By introducing these five new electrically powered fire trucks, the Berlin Fire Department reinforces its pioneering role in innovative and sustainable firefighting technology.

The successful test results and comprehensive equipment of the RT demonstrate that these vehicles exceed the high demands of daily firefighting requirements.

ZIEGLER and MAN to deliver new firefighting vehicles to Munich and Augsburg

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ZIEGLER announces major order for firefighting vehicles

ZIEGLER and MAN have announced a significant order for 83 new HLF 20 firefighting vehicles for the professional fire departments of Munich and Augsburg, as reported by ZIEGLER.

The first two prototypes will be delivered by the end of 2025, with the remaining 81 vehicles arriving by the end of 2028.

Three of these vehicles are designated for Augsburg’s fire department.

The vehicles are built on a MAN TGM 16.320 4×2 Euro 6 chassis and feature compact dimensions, making them well-suited for urban environments.

Vehicle specifications and innovations

The vehicles are noted for their compact dimensions: an overall length of 8,040 mm, width of 2,440 mm, and height of 3,200 mm.

ZIEGLER, as the general contractor, is providing the chassis, superstructure, and a significant portion of the firefighting equipment.

Jörg Fiebach, Project Manager at the Munich Fire Department, stated: “We will set another milestone with the new generation of vehicles.”

ZIEGLER’s ALPAS system has been adapted to ensure the vehicles meet the demands of urban firefighting, providing ample space for equipment and maintaining a low center of gravity for optimal driving characteristics.

The vehicles also include the Z-Cab, configured for a crew of 1+7 and certified under ECE R29-3 safety standards.

Connectivity and digital integration

A key feature of the new vehicles is the inclusion of ZIEGLER’s digital products, Z-Connect and Z-Remote, which enable full connectivity among the fleet.

Johannes Taglang, Product Manager for Digital Products at ZIEGLER, commented: “The future of connected firefighting vehicles starts here – with Z-Connect.”

These technologies are designed to increase the efficiency and coordination of emergency services and support the future needs of connected and digitalized emergency services.

The professional fire department of Munich is setting a new benchmark in connectivity, efficiency, service, and safety with these smart vehicle solutions.

Advanced equipment for urban firefighting

The city of Munich requires firefighting vehicles with a small turning circle of less than 15 meters to navigate narrow and difficult-to-pass streets.

The flexible ALPAS system and the low road chassis of the new vehicles address these needs, ensuring they are ideally suited for densely built-up urban areas.

Jörg Fiebach added: “We are delighted that ZIEGLER’s tailor-made concept meets our exact requirements.

The new vehicles are perfectly adapted to the urban conditions in Munich and offer the necessary maneuverability and flexibility for our operations.”

New firefighting trucks delivered for Lower North Coast, New South Wales

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Volunteers recognised for long service in Macksville, New South Wales

As reported by the New South Wales Rural Fire Service, new firefighting trucks were delivered for the Lower North Coast, and over 30 NSW Rural Fire Service volunteers were recognised at a ceremony in Macksville.

Deputy Commissioner Peter McKechnie, alongside special guests, presented 36 Long Service Medals to volunteers with a combined service of over 870 years.

Deputy Commissioner McKechnie highlighted the significance of the event: “Today is an opportunity to recognise the hard work and incredible contribution of all RFS volunteers across the region, particularly those who have dedicated decades of service.”

He acknowledged the dedication and commitment of all the members.

Recognition of dedicated service

Deputy Commissioner McKechnie gave special recognition to five members with over 40 years of service.

These include Frank Brownhill of North Macksville Brigade, Allen Donnelly of Warrell Creek Brigade, Frederickton Brigade’s Stephen Cooper and Robert Pogoriutschnig, and Robert Willmer, a member of both Frederickton and Aldavilla Brigades.

He stated: “Every single one of these members should be proud of themselves and their commitment to protecting local communities.”

New firefighting equipment

The ceremony also included the handover of dual-cab fire trucks to the Stuarts Point, Hat Head, and Valla Beach Brigades, and a single cab to Grays Crossing Brigade.

Deputy Commissioner McKechnie emphasized the importance of modern equipment: “It’s important RFS members have access to modern firefighting technology when preparing for and responding to fires and other incidents.”

The new trucks, valued at a combined $1.09 million, are expected to enhance the brigades’ firefighting capabilities in the local area.

Acknowledging volunteer efforts

Deputy Commissioner McKechnie underscored the vital role of RFS volunteers: “The efforts of RFS volunteers do not go unnoticed and today’s event provides a great opportunity to publicly acknowledge the outstanding work of our thousands of volunteer bush firefighters, who are available to serve their communities 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”

He also mentioned the crucial support from families and employers: “Whilst it’s important to provide them with the best equipment, we know it takes the ongoing support and patience of their families and employers to assist and enable them to do what they need to do to save lives and protect property.”

Boosting firefighter efficiency with Ziamatic

by Breaking NewsFirefighting EquipmentVehicles

Ziamatic’s new double hard sleeve gantry provides a safer and more efficient method for retrieving hard sleeves from fire trucks

Whether due to budget constraints, the nature of volunteer firefighting, or the sheer unpredictability of emergencies, fire departments around the world face a common challenge: limited personnel.

This limitation can stretch resources thin, making every aspect of an emergency response more critical.

One such aspect is the retrieval of essential equipment, such as hard sleeves, from fire trucks.

Hard sleeves, which are used for drafting water from static sources, are typically stored on top of fire trucks.

Retrieving these 10-foot hard sleeves has traditionally required multiple firefighters, a process that can be time-consuming and labour-intensive.

Introducing a solution

Recognising the need for a more efficient method, Ziamatic Corporation developed the Double Hard Sleeve Gantry.

This innovative system allows a single firefighter to retrieve two 10-foot hard sleeves from the top of a fire truck.

By reducing the manpower required for this task, the gantry addresses a critical operational bottleneck.

It is designed fit into standard areas where double hard sleeve stationary mounts are typically located.

This makes the gantry suitable for both retrofitting existing fire trucks and integrating into new truck builds.

For fire departments considering upgrades or new vehicle purchases, the gantry offers a seamless integration option that enhances functionality without requiring extensive modifications.

The gantry’s damper mechanism ensures a smooth and controlled drop-down motion with minimal resistance – crucial for maintaining safety during the retrieval process.

Sudden or jerky movements can lead to equipment damage or personal injury, but the damper mechanism mitigates these risks by providing a steady, controlled descent.

Ease of use and safety features

The operation of the Double Hard Sleeve Gantry is designed with simplicity and safety in mind.

Firefighters can unlock the gantry and slide it out and down to ground level without having to climb onto the truck.

This ground-level access significantly reduces the risk of falls and related injuries.

The process involves undoing a hook and loop strap to access the hard sleeves, which can then be easily removed from the trays.

A key safety feature is the handle and locking assembly, which includes a release mechanism located near the bottom of the handle.

This design ensures that firefighters can operate the gantry while remaining on the ground, further enhancing safety and efficiency.

When the hard sleeves are returned, the handle and locking assembly automatically lock the gantry in place, securing the equipment without additional steps.

Model options

Ziamatic offers two models of the Double Hard Sleeve Gantry to accommodate different fire truck configurations.

The HSG-2-O-10 is designed for the officer’s side of the vehicle, while the HSG-2-D-10 is tailored for the driver’s side.

These model options provide flexibility for fire departments, allowing them to choose the configuration that best fits their truck layouts.

These model options provide flexibility for fire departments, allowing them to choose the configuration that best fits their truck layouts.

Whether the hard sleeves need to be retrieved from the officer’s side or the driver’s side, the gantry offers a suitable solution that integrates seamlessly with existing setups.

A practical and efficient solution

The Double Hard Sleeve Gantry from Ziamatic Corporation offers a practical and efficient solution to aid in the broader issue of limited personnel faced by many fire departments.

By simplifying the retrieval of hard sleeves and reducing it to a one-person operation, the gantry enhances both safety and operational efficiency.

Its thoughtful design, ease of use, and safety features make it a valuable addition to any fire department’s equipment.

With model options to suit different truck configurations and comprehensive support from Ziamatic, the Double Hard Sleeve Gantry is set to become an essential tool for improving firefighting operations.

For more information about the Double Hard Sleeve Gantry, fire departments can contact Ziamatic at 1-800-FIRE or visit their website at Ziamatic.com.

The website provides detailed information about the gantry, including specifications, installation guides, and customer support.

Ziamatic’s team is available to assist with inquiries and provide guidance to ensure that fire departments can fully benefit from this innovative system.

This article was originally published in the June 2024 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

Rosenbauer Karlsruhe inaugurates state-of-the-art “Welcome Center”

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“We have created a modern infrastructure”: Michael Kristeller on the new Rosenbauer “Welcome Center”

After two and a half years of construction, the new “Welcome Center” of Rosenbauer Karlsruhe was officially opened on June 11, 2024, as reported by Rosenbauer.

The facility, which includes a delivery hall and administration building, was built with an investment of 1.2 million euros.

The ten-metre-high hall is designed for vehicle handovers, training, and courses on up to four lanes simultaneously, regardless of weather conditions.

The “Welcome Center” also features a state-of-the-art training center and office spaces based on “new work” concepts.

This development follows previous investments in a digitalized production plant for aerial rescue devices and an innovative paint shop, totalling millions of euros over the past few years.

Commitment to Karlsruhe

Sebastian Wolf, CEO of Rosenbauer International, highlighted the strategic importance of Karlsruhe for the company: “With a share of around 14% of Group revenues, high-quality aerial rescue vehicles are a strategically important segment for our company. Demand is high.

“In Germany only, we were able to win orders for exactly 100 new vehicles in 2023.”

Wolf added that this investment further enhances Karlsruhe as a competence center for aerial rescue vehicles and signifies the company’s commitment to the location’s hundred-year history.

Michael Kristeller, Managing Director of Rosenbauer Karlsruhe, stated: “As the world market leader, we stand for products and vehicles of the highest quality and state-of-the-art technology.

“With the new ‘Welcome Center’, we have created a modern infrastructure that fulfills this customer promise in vehicle handovers, training, and courses and elevating them to a new level.”

Modern infrastructure for enhanced training

The new ten-metre-high delivery hall allows for the demonstration of multiple vehicles simultaneously, irrespective of the weather.

Kristeller explained: “Here we can show what our vehicles can do in a suitable environment – in dry conditions, at pleasant temperatures and on up to four lanes at the same time.”

The “Welcome Center” consolidates all customer-facing departments, including Development and Design, Purchasing, Sales, Sales Support, Helpdesk, Service Center, and a modern training center with three training rooms that can be combined if necessary.

Promoting communication through “new work” concepts

The “Welcome Center” was constructed on the site of the old administration building at Carl-Metz-Strasse 9.

The new office spaces, located atop the delivery hall, were designed following “new work” concepts to promote communication and ensure a pleasant working atmosphere.

Michael Kristeller emphasized the importance of the new office environment: “We need the best employees to develop and build the best aerial rescue vehicles.

“And we have also created the best working conditions for them.”

The facilities include work cafés, communication islands, a roof garden, and a picnic area.

Sustainable energy use

The “Welcome Center” building was designed with sustainability in mind, featuring a robust, energy-saving construction.

Heating is provided by a district heating connection, and a significant portion of the electricity requirement is met by a 71 kWP photovoltaic system on the roof, eliminating the need for fossil fuels in ongoing operations.

High-tech production at Karlsruhe

Since Rosenbauer’s acquisition of Metz in 1998, the Karlsruhe site has focused on high-tech aerial rescue devices.

The site has set benchmarks with its fully automatic hydraulic turntable ladders and aerial rescue platforms, which have a rescue height of up to 64 meters.

Rosenbauer employs around 500 highly trained staff at the site, producing approximately 200 new high-tech turntable ladders and aerial rescue platforms annually for global distribution.

Darley pumps and CAFS enhance South African firefighting vehicle

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Industrial Fire & Hazard Control develops new firefighting vehicle

Industrial Fire & Hazard Control, a South African company, has introduced a new wildland firefighting vehicle called the SENTRY Wildland Interface Pumper.

As reported by Darley, this vehicle is built on a MAN TGM18.240 commercial 4×4 chassis and equipped with a Darley Hornet CAFS and Darley HM500 PTO driven pump, along with a Trident FOAMATE ATP system.

The SENTRY vehicle features an Elkhart Sidewinder deck monitor and an Elkhart BrushHawk bumper turret, both operable from inside the cab.

Additionally, it includes a HyperSight thermal imaging camera fitted to the BrushHawk, enhancing its firefighting capabilities.

Features and capabilities of the SENTRY vehicle

The SENTRY Wildland Interface Pumper is specifically designed for tackling wildland urban and mining interface fires in South Africa.

The vehicle has been built to deliver maximum impact at fire incidents, offering a “go anywhere” capability due to its robust design and advanced equipment.

For a mining company in South Africa, the SENTRY is expected to address the unique challenges posed by wildland and urban interface fires.

The inclusion of the Darley Hornet CAFS, Darley HM500 PTO driven pump, and Trident FOAMATE ATP system provides comprehensive firefighting support.

Advanced firefighting tools in the SENTRY

The Elkhart Sidewinder deck monitor and Elkhart BrushHawk bumper turret enhance the SENTRY’s operational efficiency, allowing for precise control over firefighting operations from within the vehicle’s cab.

The integration of the HyperSight thermal imaging camera further supports firefighters by providing clear visuals in challenging conditions.

These tools, combined with the vehicle’s “go anywhere” capability, ensure that the SENTRY Wildland Interface Pumper is well-equipped to manage diverse firefighting scenarios, making it a valuable asset for the mining industry in South Africa.

Rosenbauer reaches a milestone with the delivery of its 200th Panther vehicle in Japan

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Sendai Airport receives new Panther 6×6

Rosenbauer and Teikoku Sen-I Co, Ltd have marked a significant milestone by delivering the 200th Panther series vehicle to Sendai Airport.

The ceremony took place at the Teikoku Sen-I Co, Ltd’s new production and delivery site in Shimotsuke City, Tochigi Prefecture.

Sendai Airport, located approximately 20 km south of Sendai City in Miyagi Prefecture, serves as a hub for both international and domestic flights.

The delivered vehicle, a high-end Panther 6×6, is tailored to meet Japanese specifications and adheres to the quality standards set by the Japan Fire Equipment Inspection Institute (JFEII).

An additional identical vehicle is scheduled for delivery to Sendai Airport at the start of 2025.

Three decades of partnership

The collaboration between Rosenbauer and Teikoku Sen-I spans over 30 years, beginning with the first Panther deliveries for the new Osaka airport in 1994.

Since then, Rosenbauer’s vehicles have been a mainstay at all major Japanese airports.

Herbert Poellinger, Head of Area Asia Pacific at Rosenbauer International AG, highlighted the significance of this delivery: “With a total of 200 vehicles delivered, Japan is the second strongest sales market for the Panther worldwide.

“The high demand confirms our innovative leadership in this segment and good cooperation with our Japanese partner in the airport business.”

IFSJ comment

The delivery of the 200th Panther vehicle by Rosenbauer to Sendai Airport is a testament to the enduring partnership and mutual trust between Rosenbauer and Teikoku Sen-I Co, Ltd.

This milestone highlights the importance of specialized fire safety equipment in enhancing airport safety protocols.

As Rosenbauer continues to expand its footprint in the Japanese market, this milestone serves as a reminder of the critical role that advanced firefighting technology plays in ensuring the safety and efficiency of air travel infrastructure.

Groupe ADP embraces Oshkosh electric firefighting technology for Paris-Le Bourget Airport

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Introduction of the Striker Volterra electric vehicles

Groupe ADP, renowned for its global leadership in airport development and management, has secured a significant contract for four Striker Volterra 6×6 electric aircraft rescue and fire fighting (ARFF) vehicles.

These cutting-edge vehicles will replace the entire fleet at Paris-Le Bourget Airport, located just eight kilometres northeast of Paris, France.

The environmentally advanced fire apparatus mark a notable advancement in airport safety and sustainability initiatives.

The electric vehicles chosen by Groupe ADP are celebrated not only for their safety features but also for their green capabilities.

They are designed to handle all daily operational tasks required at the airport efficiently.

Features include exceptional acceleration, a custom chassis and suspension, and a fully electric range, setting new standards for vehicle performance in emergency response scenarios.

Advanced features and design of the new fleet

Each of the four Striker Volterra electric ARFF vehicles boasts an industry-leading modular cab design and TAK-4 all-wheel independent suspension.

These vehicles are equipped with a 10,500-litre water tank, an 800-litre foam tank, a 7,570 LPM water pump, and a 250 kg dry chemical powder system.

They also feature the Oshkosh Eco EFP foam system, which minimizes environmental impact by eliminating ground foam during testing.

Sebastien Couturier, Paris-Le Bourget managing director, highlighted the strategic investment: “By investing in the cutting-edge Oshkosh Striker Volterra electric ARFF vehicles, Paris–Le Bourget Airport is setting a new standard for low-carbon operations.

“This initiative demonstrates our unwavering commitment to crew safety and environmental responsibility as we lead the way in the electrification of airport vehicles in Europe.

“We are excited about this partnership with Oshkosh Airport Products and look forward to a future where sustainable solutions pave the way for a cleaner and brighter aviation industry.”

Paris-Le Bourget Airport, the largest for business aviation and medical flights in Europe, is stepping up as a leader in renewable energy and sustainability.

This purchase signifies the first sale of electric ARFF trucks in Europe, establishing a new benchmark for low-carbon aviation operations.

Oshkosh’s commitment to sustainable aviation solutions

Jim Johnson, executive vice president of Oshkosh Corporation and president of Oshkosh Vocational, discussed the extensive efforts behind this achievement: “Our Oshkosh Europe sales and marketing team worked diligently to provide the extensive information and testing protocols needed to establish the trust and confidence of Groupe ADP in their purchasing decision.

“We are proud to offer a solution that exceeds international standards for performance and safety and supports the evolution of green aviation.

“We look forward to building a long-lasting relationship with Groupe ADP and customers worldwide as we collectively navigate the path towards more sustainable and innovative ARFF vehicle solutions.”

IFSJ Comment

The commitment of Groupe ADP and Oshkosh Airport Products to advancing sustainable aviation technology through the adoption of electric ARFF vehicles at Paris-Le Bourget Airport represents a forward-thinking approach to environmental stewardship and operational safety in the aviation sector.

As the industry continues to evolve, such innovations are crucial for reducing the carbon footprint of airport operations worldwide, demonstrating a proactive approach to integrating eco-friendly technologies in critical response scenarios.