The new fleet is set to play a pivotal role in making sure that take-off and landing strips as well as runway systems are snow and ice-free during winter months but also the meticulous care of the runway and the platform where aircrafts are stored during the summer months.
In the course of 2023, the Dutch Ministry of Defence went to tender which involved the delivery of several winter machines that would not only replace outdated equipment but also bring the infrastructure up to date with the latest industry developments and sustainable practices.
What sets Aebi Schmidt apart in this successful bid of 18 SNK 55 and 12 SNK 30 snow ploughs, 12 Traxos spreaders, 12 VKS roller brooms, 6 FS 90 snow blowers, 6 Stratos spreaders, 12 VKS roller brushes and 3 CJS sweepers is not just the delivery of innovative winter machinery, but also the inclusion of 15 years of full maintenance contracts, training, and support.
Comprehensive Maintenance and Training Solution
For the Dutch Ministry of Defence, availability was an important criterion. “Priority 1 reports should be answered within 24 hours, preferably even faster, so that we can guarantee that the airfield will remain open.” Says Arno Weidner, Mindef. The maintenance agreement in the tender includes full outsource of both corrective and preventive maintenance to Aebi Schmidt. This commitment ensures that the equipment operates at optimal levels throughout its lifecycle, minimizing downtime and maximizing efficiency.
Meanwhile optimal maintenance is a cornerstone for machine longevity, proper usage of the machines and knowledge of the personnel to handle the equipment is another way to maximize effectiveness and minimize problems. Arno Wiedner, Mindef, comments:
“When it comes to operating the machines, the level is pretty good, but when it comes to execution there is room for improvement.” Aebi Schmidt organizes a training course once or twice every year to train the staff to work safely and properly with the acquired winter equipment.
Nationwide service network and brand reliability
When we asked what the decisive factors for Aebi Schmidt were to win the tender, Franco, Project manager at Mindef, replied: “There were three main deciding factors. First because Aebi Schmidt is an OEM, which means that the people we do business with are also the people who develop and produce our machines; second because Aebi Schmidt has a solid nationwide service network with own mechanics capacity and third because of the reliability of Aebi Schmidt as a brand. You have a good traction record in the industry, we see your products in other places and that also gives us confidence.”
Besides, it was pivotal that the manufacturer was local; through this purchase, they are also stimulating the national manufacturing industry.
In the end Franco added, "We are not looking for a solution for now; we are looking for a long-term, sustainable solution, and Aebi Schmidt has delivered it."
We would like to thank the Ministry of Defense for their trust, and we are confident that the winter equipment will meet its expectations in a sustainable and long-term way.