The Munich Fire Brigade has started operating two new Liebherr LTM 1070-4.2 fire brigade cranes, replacing older models purchased in 1991 and 1998.
These 70t mobile cranes aim to meet the city’s response requirements and are positioned in the north-west and south-east areas of Munich, ensuring a maximum response time of 30 minutes as specified in the municipal fire service plan.
Munich Fire Service fire officer Dominik Franz said: “The reliability of vehicles and equipment is a very important issue for us as a fire service. The previous cranes served us reliably for many years, but as they age, the risk of technical faults and the cost of repairs increase significantly.”
The new cranes, which can be used individually or together for tandem lifting, are intended for use during technical rescue operations, particularly when other resources are inadequate.
The city selected the Liebherr LTM 1070-4.2 following a Europe-wide tender process.
Authorities cited both the vehicle’s technical features and its suitability for fire service operations as deciding factors.
They required high lifting capacity with ballast on board, strong manoeuvrability, and adaptable outriggers, all of which are necessary for working in dense urban spaces.
The cranes are equipped with a rear recovery winch, an intercom system for clear communication between the operator and rigger, and can accommodate snow chains for winter conditions.
Munich Fire Brigade’s cranes are routinely dispatched to serious traffic accidents involving large vehicles, rail and tram incidents, storm responses, and rescues from significant heights or depths. Instances involving damaged construction cranes or machinery also fall within their remit.
Upon request, the cranes can support operations in neighbouring districts.
Before operating the new equipment, the fire brigade completed a training programme that included instructor courses at the Liebherr facility in Ehingen, driver training at a military training ground in Münsingen, and further in-house instruction for all crane operators.
An additional external seminar covered vehicle and machinery recovery techniques.
Franz added: “The collaboration with Liebherr was very professional throughout the entire procurement process. We have received two high-quality cranes that provide us with optimal support in our daily work.”
