Lifting aerial firefighting and rescue to the next level in Germany
The Hamburg Fire and Rescue Service operates one of the tallest aerial rescue platforms in Germany – the Bronto F70RPX, known locally as the TMF 70. Developed in close cooperation with Hamburg, the 70-metre aerial platform has been tailor made to meet the city’s demanding conditions. In this exact configuration, the Bronto F70RPX is unique worldwide – though a neighboring fire brigade has already placed an order for an identical model after seeing its performance in practice.
Designed for the windy city
Operating in Hamburg means working in wind. From harbour fronts to high-rise districts, strong gusts are part of everyday firefighting. The Bronto F70RPX is built to handle those conditions safely as it can operate in winds up to 12.5 m/s. An integrated anemometer continuously monitors wind speed, automatically limiting movement if conditions exceed the safe threshold. The Bronto+ control system oversees all parameters from outrigger width and boom angle to platform load, to ensure safe operation. Its combination of intuitive and easy-to-use control system and a rigid telescopic boom structure ensures smooth, precise and stable performance, even in the challenging coastal winds typical of northern Germany.
“The F70RPX is a great acquisition for us. It improves our ability to reach high places and is vital for the city of Hamburg.”
Lars Scheugl, Instructor, Hamburg Fire and Rescue Service
Engineered with Hamburg’s Expertise
The aerial platform was jointly designed in close cooperation with Hamburg with technical coordination by Thorsten Ahrens, Technical Procurement of the Hamburg Fire and Rescue Service. Lars Scheugl, instructor for special vehicles and active firefighter of the Hamburg Fire and Rescue Service, and his team contributed their extensive operational experience to the planning, design, and equipment configuration.
Every detail from control logic and cage layout to safety systems was shaped by real-world experience. The result is a custom-built solution perfectly suited for the city’s complex environment of industrial facilities, bridges, high-rise buildings and maritime exposure.
Technology backed confidence
The Bronto F70RPX aerial rescue platform combines high performance with trusted Bronto safety. With a working height of 70 metres and a horizontal outreach of 33 metres, it bridges the gap between traditional turntable ladders and modern high-rise rescue solutions. Even at 40 metres, the boom delivers 28 metres of outreach, offering exceptional up-and-over reach over roofs and façades. A water monitor provides a throw distance of up to 100 metres using water, foam or a combined mixture. One of the special features of this unit is the integrated Cobra Cutting System, which uses high-pressure water mixed with abrasive material to cut through walls or roofs from the outside, allowing crews to attack fires without entering the building. This significantly increases safety and efficiency during industrial and high-rise operations.
“In a city that’s constantly growing we have to keep pace with its fire safety demands by acquiring a unit like the F70RPX, we are closing a capability gap in our firefighting and rescue operations.”
Lars Scheugl, Instructor, Hamburg Fire and Rescue Service
Working at height and below ground level
The Bronto F70RPX aerial platform for the Hamburg Fire and Rescue Services is as versatile below ground level as it is at height. In the city harbor, the platform enables rescue operations, diver assistance and other tasks at water level. The hydraulic outrigger system and advanced control mechanics ensure exceptional stability and steadiness even at full outreach or in uneven terrain.
“When we’re working here in the harbour, we often face accessibility issues involving ships and various harbour operations. With this unit we can perform rescue operations and other work below ground level.”
Lars Scheugl, Instructor, Hamburg Fire and Rescue Service
Despite its impressive size, the F70RPX is remarkably intuitive to operate. After initial training by Bronto Skylift, the Hamburg Fire and Rescue Service developed a dedicated training programme for special-purpose vehicles, ensuring consistent safety and proficiency among operators. Clear control layouts and intuitive control system allow for safe operation even under pressure and in changing weather conditions.
“Our crew quickly recognized the reliability and the easy operation of this unit so we were able to get the unit into service quickly”
Lars Scheugl, Instructor, Hamburg Fire and Rescue Service
Service and reliability
Close cooperation with a regional Bronto service partner guarantees ongoing readiness. Regular maintenance and fast service response ensure that the platform remains dependable – 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
“With Bronto, we have the advantage of having a service partner nearby. They can carry out any necessary repairs promptly and we can get the unit back in action quickly”
Lars Scheugl, Instructor, Hamburg Fire and Rescue Service
