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Langenselbold fire department receives new ZIEGLER vehicles
Delivery of two firefighting vehicles in Germany
The fire department of Langenselbold has received two new firefighting vehicles from ZIEGLER.
According to ZIEGLER, the handover took place in August and included an HLF 20 and a TLF 4000 for municipal use.
The manufacturer reported that both vehicles were built with its ALPAS superstructure and Z-Control operating system to maintain readiness in demanding conditions.
ZIEGLER explained that the delivery was intended to improve operational capacity for a wide range of fire and rescue scenarios.
The company stated that both vehicles were equipped with standardised control systems and lighting features to support safe deployment.
Technical details of the HLF 20
ZIEGLER reported that the HLF 20 is built on a MAN TGM 13.320 4×4 chassis with 320 HP and a gross weight of 16 tonnes.
It said the vehicle accommodates a crew of nine, including a passenger seat with a PA mount.
The company explained that the HLF 20 carries a 1,600 litre water tank and is fitted with a ZIEGLER FPN 10-2000-1H centrifugal pump.
It added that a Bird-View 360° camera system, LED Z-Vision lighting, and a winch with 50 kN pulling force were also included.
ZIEGLER stated that these systems allow the HLF 20 to handle a variety of firefighting and rescue operations.
Technical details of the TLF 4000
ZIEGLER confirmed that the TLF 4000 is based on a MAN TGM 18.320 4×4 chassis with 320 HP.
It reported that the vehicle contains a 5,500 litre water tank along with 500 litres of foam concentrate.
The manufacturer explained that the vehicle is fitted with a ZIEGLER FPN 10-3000-1H pump and a Foam System 24 proportioning unit.
It said this combination supports firefighting operations in both urban and difficult terrain.
ZIEGLER added that the vehicle includes a pneumatic light mast and an ALCO turret with foldable fall protection.
Shared systems across both vehicles
ZIEGLER reported that both vehicles are fitted with the company’s standardised pump control panel (SPBF).
The manufacturer said both also feature its Z-Vision lighting concept.
It added that a PUSH hygiene board was included in both vehicles to support operational hygiene.
The company noted that safety and operational features were standardised to ensure consistency for users.
Use of advanced vehicle technology
According to ZIEGLER, the use of its ALPAS bodywork allows for durability and adaptability in changing conditions.
The manufacturer explained that the Z-Control system provides operators with consistent functionality and supports training continuity across different vehicles.
It added that the inclusion of integrated lighting and viewing systems was aimed at improving situational awareness.
ZIEGLER indicated that the equipment was designed to support both day and night operations.
The company stated that these systems were included to enhance readiness for complex firefighting environments.
Future role in Langenselbold operations
ZIEGLER reported that the two vehicles will be used in a variety of response situations in Langenselbold.
The manufacturer said the HLF 20 provides versatility for firefighting, technical rescue, and emergency response.
It added that the TLF 4000 is intended for situations requiring large volumes of extinguishing agent.
According to ZIEGLER, the delivery forms part of its continuing supply of vehicles to German fire departments.
The company confirmed that detailed technical data for both vehicles has been made available.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
For fire and safety professionals, the delivery of new vehicles to Langenselbold highlights current trends in vehicle specifications.
The inclusion of high-capacity water and foam systems shows the continuing emphasis on operational flexibility.
The use of standardised control panels and lighting systems demonstrates how manufacturers are focusing on common interfaces to support crew training.
The addition of hygiene systems indicates that post-incident safety remains a key part of equipment design.
Langenselbold fire department receives new ZIEGLER vehicles: Summary
The fire department of Langenselbold has received two new firefighting vehicles from ZIEGLER.
The handover included an HLF 20 and a TLF 4000.
The HLF 20 has a 1,600 litre water tank, a 320 HP MAN chassis, and a ZIEGLER FPN 10-2000-1H pump.
It also has LED lighting, a Bird-View 360° camera, and a winch with 50 kN pulling force.
The TLF 4000 has a 5,500 litre water tank, 500 litres of foam concentrate, and a ZIEGLER FPN 10-3000-1H pump.
It includes a Foam System 24 unit, pneumatic light mast, and ALCO turret.
Both vehicles share the Z-Control system, Z-Vision lighting, SPBF pump control, and PUSH hygiene board.
ZIEGLER stated that the vehicles will enhance firefighting capacity in Langenselbold, Germany.
Spartan Emergency Response expands Brandon facility to increase fire apparatus output
Expansion aims to meet rising US fire apparatus demand
According to REV Group, Spartan Emergency Response has begun work on expanding its manufacturing facility in Brandon, South Dakota.
The company said the $20 million investment was first announced during its second-quarter earnings call on 4 June.
Spartan Emergency Response is part of REV Group subsidiary Spartan Fire LLC.
The expansion will target a 40% increase in production capacity for both fully custom fire apparatus and semi-custom models that the company said can be built and delivered in under a year.
It added that the project will also expand painting and fabrication process capabilities on the Brandon campus.
Details of the planned site growth
According to REV Group, the expansion will add 56,000 square feet to the existing site.
The company said this will double its current manufacturing footprint.
It added that the improvements are intended to increase output and shorten delivery times for fire departments nationwide.
REV Group stated that the development will also improve process efficiency within its facility.
The firm added that the upgrades will support its custom and semi-custom fire truck production lines.
Employment and local economic impact
REV Group said the project is expected to create 50 new jobs.
It stated that this would bring an estimated $1.8 million increase in annual payroll.
The company also projected an $85,000 increase in annual property tax contributions for the local area.
REV Group said the investment reflects its long-term commitment to the Brandon and Sioux Falls region.
It added that the facility growth will have a lasting effect on the local economy.
Groundbreaking ceremony and leadership comments
Mike Virnig, President of the REV Specialty Vehicles Segment, said: “We are delighted to host our groundbreaking ceremony today to announce our plans for expansion.
“This investment will double our manufacturing footprint and help us meet the rising demand from fire departments across the nation by allowing us to build more fire apparatus and deliver it faster.”
South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden attended the event and said: “Thank you to Spartan Emergency Response for your heart of service and for your heart to provide a quality product to protect people and to serve people which in most cases is on their worst day.”
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Governor Rhoden also shared his own service as a volunteer firefighter during the ceremony.
Attendance from state and local officials
REV Group said other attendees included South Dakota Lieutenant Governor Tony Venhuizen.
City of Brandon Mayor Harry Buck was also present.
The company stated that Chad Krier, Constituent Services Representative at the Office of United States Senator Mike Rounds, attended.
It added that Benjamin Ready, Southeast Regional Director from the Office of United States Senator John Thune, was also there.
Landon Hanson, Military and Veteran Services Representative for Congressman Dusty Johnson, was present as well.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
The company said the expanded production capacity will allow it to meet higher demand for both custom and semi-custom fire apparatus.
For fire and safety professionals, increased manufacturing output could shorten delivery times for new vehicles.
REV Group stated that the investment also reflects continued growth in the US fire apparatus market.
This development may be relevant for departments planning future procurement.
Spartan Emergency Response expands Brandon facility to increase fire apparatus output: Summary
According to REV Group, Spartan Emergency Response has started expanding its Brandon, South Dakota facility.
The company said the project involves a $20 million investment announced in June 2025.
It added that the goal is to increase production capacity for custom and semi-custom fire apparatus by 40%.
The expansion will add 56,000 square feet and improve painting and fabrication processes.
REV Group stated that the project will double the current manufacturing footprint.
The company said the plan will create 50 jobs and add $1.8 million to annual payroll.
It projected an $85,000 annual increase in property tax contributions.
Mike Virnig, President of the REV Specialty Vehicles Segment, spoke at the groundbreaking.
South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden also attended and delivered remarks.
Other state and local officials were present at the event.
Atlantic Emergency Solutions expands Charlotte service centre for fire departments
Expansion to support North Carolina fire departments
Pierce Manufacturing has reported that its authorised dealer, Atlantic Emergency Solutions, has completed an expansion of its Charlotte, North Carolina service centre.
According to Pierce Manufacturing, the facility upgrade aims to support the Charlotte Fire Department and other agencies across the region.
The centre is located on Statesville Road in Charlotte.
Pierce Manufacturing said the expansion will provide increased service capacity, more parts availability, and wider support coverage for departments across North Carolina and neighbouring states.
Joe Pack, Chief Executive Officer of Atlantic Emergency Solutions, said: “Our team is committed to keeping fire departments mission-ready.”
He added: “With this expansion, we’re positioned to reduce downtime, enhance service accessibility, and support growing fleets such as the Charlotte Fire Department.”
Facility size and capacity increases
Pierce Manufacturing stated that the Charlotte facility has grown by 9,200 square feet.
It added that the total footprint now stands at 25,200 square feet.
Seven new service bays have been installed to improve maintenance and repair capacity.
The company explained that these bays are intended to reduce turnaround times for essential servicing.
It said the project also included the addition of a sprinkler system.
An updated parts room has been added to the facility.
Service offerings and local access
Pierce Manufacturing reported that the expansion will allow for improved local access to services.
It stated that the centre will provide local pickup and delivery of fire apparatus to stations across the region.
According to the company, this service is intended to reduce the operational burden on fire departments needing vehicle maintenance.
It added that departments will benefit from increased parts availability on-site.
The company said that the location was chosen for its accessibility to regional agencies.
Role as an authorised dealer
Pierce Manufacturing confirmed that Atlantic Emergency Solutions serves as its authorised dealer across a large portion of the eastern United States.
The company listed its coverage areas as Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia, Kentucky and Ohio.
It said the Charlotte facility plays a key role in servicing this territory.
According to Pierce Manufacturing, expansion in this location is intended to strengthen regional support infrastructure.
The company added that service centres such as Charlotte are critical to maintaining fleet readiness for fire departments.
Regional impact for fire agencies
Pierce Manufacturing stated that the Charlotte Fire Department is one of the largest fleets in the region.
It added that the expansion will also benefit smaller municipal and volunteer fire agencies.
The company explained that access to enhanced service capacity can help reduce out-of-service times.
According to Pierce Manufacturing, agencies in neighbouring states may also use the Charlotte facility.
It said that the upgraded centre will help meet the growing demands of expanding fleets.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
The expansion of the Charlotte service centre represents an increase in available support infrastructure for fire departments in North Carolina and surrounding states.
For fleet managers, this development may translate to faster turnaround on repairs and maintenance, reducing vehicle downtime.
Improved parts availability and local pickup services could help streamline logistical operations for both large metropolitan and smaller volunteer departments.
For safety professionals, the inclusion of a sprinkler system within the service facility reflects the integration of fire protection measures into operational infrastructure.
Atlantic Emergency Solutions expands Charlotte service centre for fire departments: Summary
Pierce Manufacturing reported that its authorised dealer, Atlantic Emergency Solutions, has expanded its Charlotte, North Carolina service centre.
The facility upgrade is designed to support the Charlotte Fire Department and other regional agencies.
The expansion added 9,200 square feet, bringing the total to 25,200 square feet.
Seven new service bays were installed to increase maintenance and repair capacity.
The project included an updated parts room and a sprinkler system.
The centre will provide local pickup and delivery of fire apparatus.
Atlantic Emergency Solutions serves as the authorised Pierce dealer for eight eastern US jurisdictions.
The company said the expansion is aimed at improving service accessibility and fleet readiness for fire departments.
Todd McBride to lead global vehicle sales for Rosenbauer America
New department to oversee Rosenbauer America global vehicle sales
Todd McBride has announced via LinkedIn that he has been appointed director of global vehicle sales at Rosenbauer America.
According to McBride, the role was created in June 2025 to merge two existing functions within the company.
He said the new department combines sales of Rosenbauer vehicles built on its global platforms, including the RTX and industrial fire apparatus, with the international sales team that supports fire services in the Middle East, Latin America and the Caribbean.
McBride stated that this integration will align products with target markets and strengthen customer partnerships.
He added that the teams will also coordinate to provide product support and market-specific solutions.
Focus on aligning products with market needs
McBride said: “By bringing these teams together, we’ll align the right products with the right markets, strengthen partnerships, and deliver innovative fire apparatus where they’re needed most.”
He added: “The Global Vehicle Sales team will also work closely with the International Sales team to ensure product support and solutions tailored to each market.”
Previous roles within Rosenbauer America
According to his LinkedIn profile, McBride has been with Rosenbauer America for over 20 years.
He was most recently RTX programme manager from June 2024 to June 2025.
Before that, he served as RTX sales and marketing manager from May 2021 to June 2024.
His earlier positions included business development manager for digital solutions, CPQ configuration administrator, and product manager for Raptor and T-Rex aerials.
He also held roles in inside sales, including team lead and presales specialist.
Career progression and experience
McBride’s career began at Rosenbauer America in April 2005 as an apparatus specialist.
He later became inside sales contract administrator and subsequently advanced through various leadership positions.
According to his profile, his skills include sales and customer service.
He has worked in hybrid, remote and on-site capacities during his time with the company.
Global reach of Rosenbauer America
Rosenbauer America produces fire apparatus for domestic and international markets.
Its global platform products include vehicles designed for municipal, industrial and specialised firefighting applications.
The company exports to regions including the Middle East, Latin America and the Caribbean.
According to McBride, the new department aims to better match these products with local requirements.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
This appointment indicates a shift in Rosenbauer America’s approach to international sales by combining product and regional expertise under one role.
For fire and safety professionals, it may mean more tailored equipment offerings and improved support in export markets.
The integration of global platform vehicle sales with international sales teams could lead to closer alignment between equipment design and operational needs in different regions.
Rosenbauer America creates global vehicle sales director role: Summary
Todd McBride announced via LinkedIn that he has been appointed director of global vehicle sales at Rosenbauer America.
The role was created in June 2025 to combine sales of global platform vehicles with international sales.
Products covered include the RTX and industrial fire apparatus.
Export regions include the Middle East, Latin America and the Caribbean.
McBride has worked for Rosenbauer America for over 20 years.
Previous roles include RTX programme manager and RTX sales and marketing manager.
He also held positions in business development, configuration administration, product management and inside sales.
The company produces fire apparatus for municipal, industrial and specialist applications.
It exports products worldwide and aims to match them with regional requirements.
FDNY expands autonomous drone technology for emergency response in New York City
FDNY conducts weeklong drone technology assessment
The New York Fire Department (FDNY) has reported that it has carried out a weeklong evaluation of drone technology in partnership with the New York Police Department (NYPD) and the US Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) National Urban Security Technology Laboratory (NUSTL).
The tests, conducted from July 30 2025 in Manhattan, assessed drones approved on the Department of Defense “Blue UAS Cleared List,” which are certified as cyber-secure and compliant with DoD policy.
According to FDNY, the aim was to identify viable alternatives to drones from restricted manufacturers and to provide operational feedback to guide industry improvements.
FDNY Commissioner Robert S. Tucker said the department has used drones since March 2017 and now deploys them across all five boroughs.
Tucker said: “The FDNY has fully embraced drone technology.”
He added: “We have been at this a long time, but the technology has evolved. Today, we’re using drones across all five boroughs.”
Autonomous deployment plans for firehouse-based drones
Deputy Mayor for Public Safety, Kaz Daughtry, stated that New York City is preparing to station drones on firehouse rooftops to enable automatic deployment to fire scenes.
According to Daughtry, the concept involves drones launching when a 911 call is received, reaching the incident before firefighters and transmitting live imagery to responding crews.
Daughtry said this would allow incident commanders to conduct a scene assessment while en route, giving them an operational advantage before arrival.
The Deputy Mayor added that the initiative builds on earlier police department programmes, where drones were launched autonomously from multiple precincts to assist in law enforcement operations.
Use of drones in operational firefighting and rescue
FDNY explained that drones are used at every second alarm fire or larger, as well as during rescue operations.
According to the department, drones provide aerial imagery, thermal imaging and heat detection, with video feeds shared citywide to assist in decision-making.
FDNY stated that drones help locate hotspots, assess building stability and identify hazardous areas inaccessible to personnel.
Commissioner Tucker said that expanding drone technology across the city would enhance the department’s ability to arrive with prior situational awareness, improving safety for both firefighters and the public.
Broader public safety applications
Zach Iscol, New York City Emergency Management Commissioner, said drones have also been used for building collapse assessments, storm damage mapping and beach monitoring.
Iscol stated that drones assist lifeguards in identifying swimmers in distress and have been employed in coastal storm response exercises.
According to Iscol, the technology’s potential for public safety operations continues to expand.
He said its versatility allows it to be applied across diverse scenarios, from firefighting to environmental hazard monitoring.
Testing and evaluation process
FDNY Robotics Programme Administrator Mike Leo said the DHS-hosted assessment involved operational testing of multiple drone models to establish performance benchmarks and inform future procurement decisions.
Leo explained that the process focused on evaluating existing technology for suitability in urban emergency environments rather than immediate modifications.
He noted that the metrics gathered will be applicable to public safety agencies nationwide.
Leo added that the department monitors emerging drone technology to ensure it is reliable for public safety use before deployment.
Security standards and equipment replacement
FDNY confirmed that the evaluation also addressed cyber security concerns raised in DHS guidance regarding certain foreign-manufactured drones.
The department said it is phasing out such models in favour of alternatives meeting its security criteria.
Officials explained that testing in New York City’s dense urban environment serves as proof of concept, ensuring technology functions in areas with complex radio and cellular signal conditions.
Daughtry stated that if a system performs effectively in New York, it is expected to work reliably in other US cities.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
The FDNY’s drone technology programme provides a model for integrating unmanned aerial systems into urban fire and rescue operations.
It demonstrates how early scene intelligence can be gathered before first responders arrive, enhancing tactical decision-making.
The approach also shows the importance of cyber-secure equipment procurement and operational testing in challenging environments before large-scale deployment.
Fire and safety professionals can assess how autonomous drone deployment could be applied to their jurisdictions, considering local geography, infrastructure and regulatory frameworks.
FDNY expands autonomous drone technology for emergency response in New York City: Summary
The New York Fire Department has conducted a weeklong drone technology assessment in partnership with the NYPD and DHS NUSTL.
The evaluation tested Department of Defense-approved drones from the Blue UAS Cleared List for cyber security and operational suitability.
FDNY said the project aims to identify replacements for restricted drones and inform manufacturers on operational needs.
Deputy Mayor Kaz Daughtry outlined plans to place autonomous drones on firehouse rooftops for pre-arrival scene assessment.
Commissioner Robert S. Tucker said drones are deployed across all five boroughs for firefighting and rescue operations.
FDNY uses drones for thermal imaging, hotspot detection and structural stability assessment.
Zach Iscol from NYC Emergency Management said drones are also used for storm damage mapping, building collapse surveys and beach safety monitoring.
FDNY Robotics Administrator Mike Leo said the testing provided performance benchmarks and informed procurement planning.
The department is replacing certain foreign-made drones with models that meet its security standards.
Testing in New York City ensures drones can operate reliably in dense urban environments with complex signal conditions.
Correction: An earlier version of this report misattributed remarks to Cass Dorie. The correct name is Kaz Daughtry, Deputy Mayor for Public Safety.
Magirus ladder failure in Germany caused by worn extension ropes
Investigation attributes injury to rope fatigue
An incident involving a Magirus turntable ladder injured two firefighters during a training exercise in Preetz, Germany, according to a company statement.
The event occurred on 17 October 2024 during a scheduled session at the Preetz Fire Service Technical Centre, involving personnel from the Kiel Fire Service.
Magirus has reported that investigations into the event have now been concluded, drawing on expert analysis from TÜV Süd, TÜV Nord and other independent assessors.
According to the manufacturer, the analysis confirmed that the cause of the failure was a fatigue fracture in one of the ladder’s extension ropes, followed by the failure of a second worn rope.
The company said both cables showed signs of advanced wear and lacked adequate lubrication.
Expert findings cite lack of maintenance
The final reports concluded that the damaged cables had reached the end of their service life in line with manufacturer guidelines.
Magirus stated that the condition of the ropes indicated the damage had developed over a long period and should have been detected during regular maintenance.
The company said that more rigorous inspection and lubrication procedures could have extended the service life of the ropes.
However, it added that this would not necessarily have prevented the incident.
The inspection found no faults in the vehicle’s design or structure.
No design or operator faults identified
The assessment confirmed that no operating errors were made during the incident.
Magirus reported that the training was being conducted as intended and that vehicle operation was within standard parameters.
According to the company, all findings support the conclusion that the failure was mechanical and related to maintenance rather than design.
The technical experts ruled out any structural defects in the Magirus turntable ladder model involved.
No safety alert or recall has been issued at this time.
Magirus cooperates with Kiel Fire Service
Magirus said it worked closely with the Kiel Fire Service throughout the investigation process.
The company thanked the department for its cooperation and professional engagement during the review.
It noted that communication between the organisations remained constructive throughout the inquiry.
Magirus stated that it remains available to answer any technical questions relating to the product.
It added that guidance on maintenance practices and specifications will continue to be provided on request.
Magirus responds to incident and recovery
The company confirmed its findings in a formal statement issued following the investigation’s conclusion.
Magirus said: “Magirus would like to thank the Kiel Fire Department for their objective and cooperative collaboration during the investigation.”
It added: “Magirus remains available at any time to answer questions about the product, its technical condition, and compliance with and interpretation of maintenance specifications.”
The company also addressed the individuals affected by the incident.
It said: “We wish the injured firefighter a full recovery!”
Magirus ladder failure in Germany caused by worn extension ropes: Summary
An incident occurred on 17 October 2024 during a training session involving a Magirus turntable ladder in Preetz, Germany.
Two firefighters from Kiel Fire Service were injured.
Magirus said the failure was due to a fatigue fracture in an extension rope.
A second rope failed shortly after due to advanced wear.
Both cables had reached the end of their service life.
Reports were provided by TÜV Süd, TÜV Nord and other experts.
Magirus said no design or operator errors were involved.
The manufacturer thanked the Kiel Fire Service for its cooperation.
Magirus said it remains available to answer technical questions.
New rope rescue vehicle supports Kent firefighters’ response
Kent firefighters deploy new rescue vehicle
Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) has added a new rescue vehicle to support its technical rope rescue operations across Kent and Medway.
According to KFRS, the unit responds to incidents involving rescues from height, depth, and complex lifting situations.
The new vehicle, based on an Iveco 4×4 chassis cab, replaces a previous Land Rover that had limited capacity.
The Land Rover required a second vehicle to transport all crew members and equipment, limiting efficiency during mobilisations.
KFRS stated that the new vehicle allows full crew transport and improved storage.
Crew input shapes vehicle configuration
KFRS said the vehicle was designed and built by Angloco, a UK-based manufacturer, with direct input from Kent firefighters.
The service explained that operational staff visited Angloco’s facility during the build process to influence layout and equipment access.
According to KFRS, the result is a vehicle configured specifically to meet the needs of technical rope rescue deployments.
The new cab includes a second row of seating, which the service said allows for full crew transport in one vehicle.
KFRS stated that this upgrade allows for greater flexibility in mobilisation and improves incident readiness.
Existing challenges with previous vehicle
Before the arrival of the new vehicle, the rope rescue team operated with a Land Rover.
KFRS said this limited unit lacked sufficient space for both personnel and equipment.
The service explained that a secondary vehicle was required to transport additional crew members and tools.
According to KFRS, this arrangement restricted rapid deployment and added logistical complexity during emergencies.
The new vehicle was introduced to resolve these specific operational limitations.
Service comments on collaborative build process
Jack Keogh, Workshop and Maintenance Manager at KFRS, said: “This new vehicle for the line rescue unit demonstrates KFRS’ ongoing commitment to the development of our specialist capabilities to help keep people safe.
“And, working closely with the manufacturer and including our crew’s firefighting insights has led to this vehicle’s precise design, making us all the more able to respond to emergencies across the county.”
Technical rescue capabilities in Kent
KFRS’s technical rope rescue team provides specialist support for incidents that cannot be addressed using conventional means.
The team handles complex situations where trained personnel are required to access difficult locations.
KFRS said that these can include cliff rescues, lifting casualties from confined spaces, or accessing infrastructure at height.
The new vehicle will support these operations by improving the speed and coordination of team deployment.
Further details on the specialist rescue teams are available on the KFRS website.
New rope rescue vehicle supports Kent response: Summary
Kent Fire and Rescue Service has introduced a new rescue vehicle for its technical rope rescue team.
The team operates across Kent and Medway.
The vehicle is based on an Iveco 4×4 chassis cab.
It was designed and built by Angloco.
KFRS firefighters contributed to its design.
The new cab allows full crew transport.
It replaces a smaller Land Rover unit.
The Land Rover required a second support vehicle.
KFRS said the upgrade supports faster, more flexible deployments.
Jack Keogh of KFRS praised the collaborative design process.
The vehicle is intended for rescues from height, depth and confined spaces.
KFRS said the update strengthens its specialist rescue capabilities.
Airbus H225 helicopter to support Tokyo Fire Department emergency response
Tokyo Fire Department confirms new Airbus H225 purchase
The Tokyo Fire Department has selected Airbus to supply a new H225 helicopter following a competitive tender.
The French manufacturer stated the aircraft will replace an older model as part of a broader upgrade programme.
According to Airbus, the new helicopter will be used for emergency medical response, aerial firefighting, search and rescue, and disaster recovery operations.
Jean-Luc Alfonsi, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in Japan, said the selection built on a longstanding relationship: “For nearly six decades, Airbus has stood alongside the Tokyo Fire Department in their unwavering commitment to public safety and disaster response.”
Alfonsi added: “The Tokyo Fire Department’s continued trust in the H225 reflects the reliability and adaptability that our helicopters bring to every mission.
“With its proven versatility and endurance across all conditions, the H225 is well equipped to support their lifesaving work for years to come.”
Helicopter capabilities for emergency deployment
Airbus explained that the Tokyo Fire Department’s new H225 is configured to support a range of lifesaving missions.
The helicopter includes search and rescue technology with rapid detection capability, and has built-in systems to support onboard medical intervention.
A belly-mounted tank system allows for aerial firefighting deployments.
The company said the helicopter is equipped for both speed and precision, with operational flexibility across different emergency conditions.
History of Tokyo Fire Department aviation operations
The Tokyo Fire Department began its helicopter operations in 1967 using an Allouette III.
According to Airbus, the department currently operates three H225 helicopters and three AS365 aircraft.
The agency has worked with Airbus since its aviation unit was established.
The existing fleet supports emergency missions across the Tokyo metropolitan area, including natural disaster response and rescue.
H225 design features and technical systems
Airbus stated that the H225 is designed to offer extended range and heavy-lift capacity.
The company said the aircraft is part of the Super Puma family and is equipped with advanced avionics and autopilot systems.
These systems are designed to reduce pilot workload and increase operational safety, particularly in high-risk deployments.
According to Airbus, the helicopter’s design has been refined through its use in military and parapublic service operations.
Broader use of H225 helicopters in Japan
Airbus reported that 24 H225 helicopters are currently in use across Japan.
These aircraft are operated by the Ministry of Defence and several government agencies.
Uses include VIP travel, logistics, and emergency response across the country.
Airbus said the aircraft’s range of capabilities makes it suitable for operations in both civilian and defence contexts.
Airbus H225 helicopter to support Tokyo Fire Department emergency response: Summary
The Tokyo Fire Department has selected Airbus to supply an H225 helicopter.
Airbus announced the contract on 29 July 2025.
The helicopter will replace an older model as part of a fleet renewal programme.
It will support missions including firefighting, search and rescue, and emergency medical response.
Jean-Luc Alfonsi, Managing Director of Airbus Helicopters in Japan, said the department had a long-standing relationship with Airbus.
The H225 includes a belly tank for firefighting and onboard medical stretchers.
The department’s helicopter operations began in 1967.
Its current fleet includes three H225s and three AS365s.
Airbus said the H225 includes autopilot systems and long-range capability.
Across Japan, 24 H225 helicopters are operated by government agencies and the Ministry of Defence.
Ziegler to supply 18 new fire trucks to Safety Region Midden and West Brabant
Ziegler signs contract for fire truck delivery in the Netherlands
The company Ziegler has announced a new contract with the Safety Region Midden and West Brabant for the supply of 18 firefighting vehicles.
The agreement was signed in July 2025, with vehicle delivery scheduled to begin in 2027.
According to Ziegler, the vehicles will be engineered and manufactured at the company’s facility in Winschoten.
The order continues a long-standing relationship between Ziegler and the Dutch safety region, which has used Ziegler fire trucks since 2008.
The Safety Region said the new fleet is intended to enhance operational reliability and safety for emergency responders and the public.
Operational goals of the safety region
Rens de Jonge, Strategic Project Manager at VR MWB, said the investment followed a detailed process of technical review and inter-agency coordination.
De Jonge said: “Firefighting vehicles form the backbone of our operational capabilities. This new generation of vehicles is the result of an intensive process of collaboration, coordination, and innovation.
“With this investment, we are committed to reliability, safety, and future-proofing for our firefighters and residents.”
The new vehicles are expected to be integrated across the VR MWB’s service area, which includes both urban and rural environments in the southern Netherlands.
The region aims to modernise its fleet with consistent specifications to simplify training, maintenance and deployment.
Delivery of the vehicles will begin in 2027, with full operational rollout to follow.
Vehicle specifications and features
Ziegler provided a technical overview of the 18 new firefighting vehicles.
Each truck will be built on a Volvo FE 4×2 chassis with a 320 PS (235 kW) engine and fitted with the Ziegler Z-Cab XL crew cabin.
The superstructure is based on the latest ALPAS generation system, incorporating a 2,500-litre water tank and a Ziegler FPN 10-3000-2HH pump.
The trucks will use the latest version of Ziegler’s Z-Control operating concept.
Additional equipment includes an 80-metre high-pressure work reel with 200 l/min flow at 6 bar, a Ziegler Top Integro system, and Z-Vision LED lighting.
Each vehicle is fitted with a 20,000-lumen front LED bar and a light mast with a 35,000-lumen turn and tilt unit.
An electric-hydraulic ladder rack is also included as standard.
Ziegler’s comments on the continued partnership
Rik Feijen, Account Manager at Ziegler Brandweertechniek, welcomed the new contract with VR MWB.
Feijen said: “Ziegler Brandweertechniek is proud to have supplied Safety Region Midden- en West-Brabant with modern, standard firefighting vehicles since 2008.
“This new agreement further expands this wonderful collaboration and we will be able to supply 18 new vehicles to the fire department of the Region Midden- en West-Brabant in 2027.
“The vehicles will be fully engineered and manufactured at our Winschoten location.”
Ziegler confirmed that the vehicles will be manufactured with a focus on compatibility and continuity with the region’s existing fleet.
The company also highlighted the importance of long-term customer relationships in shaping design features.
Ziegler to supply 18 new fire trucks to Safety Region Midden and West Brabant: Summary
Ziegler signed a contract in July 2025 to deliver 18 new firefighting vehicles to the Safety Region Midden and West Brabant.
The vehicles will be delivered from 2027.
The fire trucks will be manufactured at Ziegler’s facility in Winschoten.
Each vehicle will be based on a Volvo FE 4×2 chassis.
The engines will deliver 320 PS or 235 kW of power.
The vehicles include Ziegler’s Z-Cab XL and latest-generation ALPAS superstructure.
Each truck is equipped with a 2,500-litre water tank and FPN 10-3000-2HH pump.
The vehicles will use the updated Z-Control operating system.
Lighting systems include a 20,000-lumen front bar and a 35,000-lumen mast.
An electric-hydraulic ladder rack and high-pressure reel are included.
Rens de Jonge of VR MWB said the purchase supports safety and reliability.
Rik Feijen of Ziegler said the order continues a long-running partnership.