Amey has launched the official deployment of its new Manitou MT625 Rough Terrain Forklift (RTFL) equipment across the UK Armed Forces, marking a major milestone in the modernisation of its military fleet.
Production of the specialised RTFL variants has been in full swing at Manitou’s state-of-the-art facility in Laillé, France. Following delivery to Manitou UK in Verwood, each unit underwent thorough inspection and commissioning checks to ensure it met the highest standards ahead of deployment. The first batch of 14 RTFLs has now been handed over to the Defence School of Transport, with the formal ceremony taking place on Monday 13th October between Jamie Secker, Amey Defence Equipment BD/Asset Director, and Colonel Laura Craig-Braddock. Also present were Tracey Ericson, Project Lead, and Bryonne Skelton from Manitou UK, who have been closely involved in the project from the outset.
This deployment will see the RTFL programme deliver a complete capability replacement across the tri-services over the coming months. Machines will be delivered directly to designated demand locations on a one-for-one basis, with phased deliveries extending from now through November 2025, and another wave scheduled for February 2026.
Amey is also launching a two-day train-the-trainer programme, designed to empower RTFL instructors with specialised skills required for the new Manitou platform. The course includes a conversion session and suspended load training, delivered regionally to maximise access for all RTFL operators. Additionally, the Defence Training School at Leconfield is now equipped to deliver all future steady state RTFL operator and instructor courses using the new Manitou 625.
To facilitate a seamless roulement of the Manitou RTFL, current user units of the JCB 524 will be required to prepare ‘on demand’ equipment ready for transition to ensure optimal turnaround of equipment in order to maintain operational capability.
Phil Crick, Managing Director for Amey’s defence equipment business said: “We are pleased to lead the deployment of the Manitou RTFL equipment across the UK Armed Forces, a significant milestone in our commitment to modernising the MITER fleet. This rollout will enhance operational readiness and ensures our service personnel are equipped with cutting-edge technology and robust support.
“My thanks go to every team member, including Amey operatives, DE&S and the Defence School of Transport, who have all contributed to the success of this programme. The dedication, professionalism, and collaborative spirit demonstrated by everyone involved has been instrumental in delivering a new level of capability to our tri-service units.”
From October onwards, all new demand requests will be fulfilled where possible, using Manitou RTFLs. This will allow units the 90-day lead time required to engage with the Amey training team or defence school to ensure that they have suitably qualified personnel.
Amey’s Asset Replacement and Service Life Extension Programmes are critical components of the MITER contract and ensure UK Defence has the engineering and logistics assets it needs.