Dutch Ministry of Defence convinced by TOBROCO-GIANT

Special forces receive two new GIANT wheel loaders

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The ministry of Defence of the Netherlands just bought another two GIANT wheel loaders along with several attachments and partly customized options. The machines will not only be used for all different tasks on military sites, but also for education and tactical training.

The Korps Commandotroepen (KCT) is a special unit of the Royal Dutch Army which is responsible for preparing and executing special operations in the context of allied defence and crisis management tasks. The KCT is ready for operational deployment 365 days a year, 24 hours a day, anywhere in the world.

After the delivery of a GIANT G2200 X-TRA HD+ to the Education and Training Center in Rucphen in May, the Dutch special forces recently opted again for two GIANT wheel loaders, a GIANT G3500 X-TRA and a GIANT G2700 X-TRA HD+. The G3500 X-TRA is used for launching and unloading vessels into the water and for maintenance tasks at a tactical training center for water operations in Raamsdonksveer.

Another unit of Defence, the Education and Training Center for logistics, was looking for a similar type of machine, but for a different reason. The unit was looking for a wheel loader with as many CAN bus connections as possible to fit the new training which has just been developed. This training is about teaching personnel in the field of CAN bus and hydraulic systems. By choosing the GIANT G2700 X-TRA HD+, Defence’s knowledge of electronics grows along with developments in the market. Like that, just one party, TOBROCO-GIANT, offers the solution for multiple issues at Defence.

Versatility and customization make difference

The Korps Commandotroepen initially had the idea to look for a tractor for launching and removing vessels from the water. However, after they experienced various limitations the question about the possibilities was placed with TOBROCO-GIANT, because the G2200 X-TRA HD+ has already proven itself when it comes to deploy ability and reliability.

During a demonstration at the training centre the responsible of the unit realised how the machine would be used to meet their needs. TOBROCO-GIANT has developed a special, tailor-made, towbar adapter for launching and removing various vessels from the water. This is suitable for both a K50 and NATO coupling, has a hydraulically operated safety device and is adjustable to the left and right. The G3500 X-TRA was delivered with various attachments to be able to carry out a large number of activities. In addition to a towbar adapter, a grading bucket with side plates, a pallet fork and a sweeper were also supplied. Like that, the G3500 X-TRA can also be used for the maintenance of the grounds around the Training Centre.

With the X-TRA model of the G3500 series, KCT has opted for a machine with a high tipping load (4,100 kg) compared to its own weight (3,700 kg). The hydrostatic 4-wheel drive with automotive steering and 100% switchable lock on both 14-ton-axles prevents the machine from losing traction and always provides sufficient pulling force for smooth movement. The machine is well equipped as a standard with e.g. an air suspension seat, anti-theft protection and floating position on the lifting cylinder. But in order to be able to use the wheel loader optimally throughout the year, a spacious full-option cabin, LED traffic lighting, extra LED work lights and road specifications for the Netherlands have been chosen. For the transport of trailers the G3500 X-TRA is equipped with a combination towbar and a 13-pin plug.

Comprehensive information available

The unit of the education and training centre for logistics set different requirements, not just regarding the machine. The choice for the G2700 X-TRA HD+ has not only been made because the machine is compact and the most powerful loader in this series. It is also important for the training of the unit that the technical documentation is in good order, the software is easy to read and detailed parts books are available. In addition, TOBROCO-GIANT offers technical, electrical and hydraulic diagrams. All this information is available online for customers with an account.

GIANT boosts modernization of construction equipment fleet

As mentioned before, the G2200 X-TRA HD+ is the first TOBROCO-GIANT machine purchased by the Defence command troops unit. To be able to perform the special operations properly, it is important that professional training based on good facilities can be provided. The same applies to the equipment used on the base. TOBROCO-GIANT soon came into the picture at Defence, because it is a Dutch company with a Dutch product of very good quality: The machine is equipped with A-components, such as a Kubota engine and parts from Bosch. In addition, TOBROCO-GIANT offers nationwide service coverage. The G2200 X-TRA HD+ is used by the special forces for the maintenance of the KCT camp in Rucphen, which is why it was decided to equip the machine with an earth bucket, heavy duty bucket and a hydraulically adjustable pallet fork.

With more than 200 different attachments in its program and the option of customization, TOBROCO-GIANT offers a solution for every situation. With the arrival of the G2200 X-TRA HD+ at Defence, an important step has been taken in the modernization of the construction equipment fleet.