JCB Celebrates Production of 1,000th Light Capability Rough Terrain Forklift
JCB announces the production of its 1,000th light capability rough terrain forklift (LCRTF). This milestone highlights JCB's commitment to supporting American forces worldwide with durable, versatile equipment designed to excel in critical military operations. By adapting commercial technology for military needs, the LCRTF plays a vital role in enabling the success of missions in diverse and challenging environments.
Derived from JCB’s popular agricultural telescopic handler, the LCRTF is more than 90 percent commercial content, with less than 10 percent specifically tailored to meet military needs. These military specific modifications ensure the machine is able to meet the specific demands of the US Army. The LCRTF supports various missions for the U.S. Army globally, to include tasks such as clearing landing zones, loading and unloading combat vehicles and aircraft, and handling ISO containers.
"The LCRTF demonstrates how a robust commercial machine can excel in supporting missions in the most demanding military environments," said Chris Giorgianni, vice president of government & defense at JCB. "If it’s tough enough for the U.S. Army, it’s tough enough for your jobsite or farm. This milestone is a testament to JCB’s engineering expertise and our ability to meet diverse customer needs."
The United States Army awarded JCB a 10-year contract in December 2016 to produce the LCRTF, with full-scale production beginning in late 2019. JCB’s telescopic forklift is currently exclusive to the U.S. Army and has been instrumental in military logistics, including clearing supplies and equipment from landing zones and loading operations.
Designed for durability and versatility
Built on the foundation of JCB’s commercial technology, the LCRTF offers strong handling capabilities, all-terrain maneuverability and reliable performance. Powered by the efficient JCB engine, the forklift balances productivity and fuel efficiency. An innovative transmission system ensures quick directional changes and traction in challenging environments, from military zones to farms and construction sites.
"Whether supporting missions in the field or projects at home, the LCRTF proves that it can tackle any task with ease and reliability," Giorgianni added.
The Path Ahead
With 1,000 units delivered and production ongoing, the LCRTF continues to set the benchmark for robust, adaptable equipment. The 1,000th machine, purchased by the U.S. Army, will soon ship out for deployment in the field.
JCB’s connection to the military extends beyond equipment. With more than 10 percent of its North American workforce comprising veterans, JCB actively supports the military community through programs, partnerships and employment initiatives.
"As we celebrate this achievement, we’re reminded of the countless people – military and civilian – who rely on our machines every day," Giorgianni said.
For more information about the LCRTF and JCB’s full range of products, visit https://www.jcb.com/en-us.
About the Author
Michael Roth
Editor
Michael Roth has covered the equipment rental industry full time for RER since 1989 and has served as the magazine’s editor in chief since 1994. He has nearly 30 years experience as a professional journalist. Roth has visited hundreds of rental centers and industry manufacturers, written hundreds of feature stories for RER and thousands of news stories for the magazine and its electronic newsletter RER Reports. Roth has interviewed leading executives for most of the industry’s largest rental companies and manufacturers as well as hundreds of smaller independent companies. He has visited with and reported on rental companies and manufacturers in Europe, Central America and Asia as well as Mexico, Canada and the United States. Roth was co-founder of RER Reports, the industry’s first weekly newsletter, which began as a fax newsletter in 1996, and later became an online newsletter. Roth has spoken at conventions sponsored by the American Rental Association, Associated Equipment Distributors, California Rental Association and other industry events and has spoken before industry groups in several countries. He lives and works in Los Angeles when he’s not traveling to cover industry events.