In 2025, the Army of the Czech Republic incorporated the first series of sixteen Grove 3050 3 mobile cranes supplied by CONTSYSTEM Group into its logistical support system, with an additional fifteen units scheduled for delivery in 2026. This equipment is gradually replacing the older generation of AD 20, AD 28 cranes and is integrated into the support system of all types of the Czech Armed Forces. The new machines significantly expand the capabilities of the armed forces in the field of manipulation, construction of provisional infrastructure and support for the deployment of units within NATO alliance operations.

Grove GMK 3050-3 

The two person crew of the Grove GMK 3050 3 mobile crane is equipped with a Cummins Euro 5 six cylinder engine delivering 254 kW, a three axle chassis with 6×6 drive, and a 12 speed automatic transmission. The crane superstructure features a 20° tilting cab, a telescopic boom with a fully hydraulic control system, and microprocessor based stability management. It offers a theoretical lifting capacity of 50 tonnes and a reach of up to 40 meters.

Independent Suspension on All Wheels – MEGATRAK® System

GROVE cranes feature the MEGATRAK® independent hydropneumatic suspension system on all wheels, which ensures that every wheel remains in constant contact with the ground. This eliminates load transfer between axles and significantly enhances stability, even in demanding off road conditions. Unlike other systems that lift entire axles to adjust ground clearance, MEGATRAK® modifies the actual ride height by controlling the suspension of each individual wheel. This greatly improves maneuverability and provides a high level of driving comfort while reducing tire wear. Overall, MEGATRAK® is considered the best off road chassis system on the market, enabling the cranes to operate as true all terrain machines.

The Role of Logistics in Modern Armed Forces

In today’s military operations, the ability to move rapidly and handle material efficiently is essential. Grove mobile cranes provide a wide range of all terrain handling capabilities and are fully compatible with commonly used NATO logistics standards, fitting seamlessly into the Host Nation Support concept.

Technical Solution for Allied Interoperability

The Grove mobile cranes used by the Czech Armed Forces are equipped with hydraulic telescopic booms offering a high load capacity to reach ratio, a fully electronic LMI (Load Moment Indicator) safety system that monitors crane loading and working range to prevent entry into hazardous zones, and an automatic outrigger control system that enables rapid stabilization on uneven terrain. An important component is their compatibility with standard NATO transportation platforms, as well as compliance with requirements for safety, reliability, and operation in extreme climatic conditions. The crane enables rapid mission response and provides effective support to units without the need for accompanying vehicles. The system is designed to be fully self contained, without the requirement for additional counterweights.

Contribution to the Capabilities of the Czech Armed Forces

By deploying the Grove mobile crane, the Army of the Czech Republic strengthens its operational self sufficiency in the field of logistics, enhances its ability to integrate into NATO’s multinational structures, and reduces its dependence on civilian subcontractors during crisis and combat operations. Grove mobile cranes thus become a key component of modern military logistics within the Czech Armed Forces and an important tool for fulfilling the Czech Republic’s commitments within the NATO.

Manitowoc Cranes is a global leader not only in the range of Grove mobile cranes with capacities from 50 to 450 tonnes, but also in other crane types serving all industrial sectors. For nearly a century, the company has delivered best in class products. Thanks to rigorous testing procedures, the reputation of the Grove brand for quality and reliability remains unmatched.