Dresden rolls out state‑of‑teh‑art L32A-XS turntable ladders too boost city firefighting
Breaking news from Dresden: the city’s fire department is now operating Rosenbauer’s L32A-XS turntable ladders, engineered to handle the area’s tight streets and tram corridors with precision.
Space-saving design tailored for Dresden’s narrow streets
The XS ladder set uses an articulated arm with the joint built into the ladder arm, dramatically reducing the space needed for deployment. The rescue cage can be positioned as close as 6.40 meters from the vehicle’s bogie, a specification the Dresden crew prioritized.
In particularly confined areas, the ladder can rotate up to 180 degrees even in tight spaces, allowing the basket to be placed near the vehicle. An overhead line function further eases operation by letting the ladder be activated without moving the rescue cage into the working position, a crucial feature when tram cables run along the route.
Fully integrated into daily operations
The new L32A-XS units are already in regular use, proving their value across a range of missions from rescues to firefighting and incident response. The system’s HR-500 MF rescue basket stands out for its high load capacity and modular options, which can be quickly fitted with a basket stretcher, RM-8 launcher, a high‑performance fan, or a chainsaw holder.
Powerful LED headlights illuminate the scene, and built‑in sockets support the use of electric tools. The basket includes self‑protection nozzles for enhanced safety during operations. A front‑mounted camera provides the machinist with a live feed to the main control station, improving coordination on scene.
Smart features that simplify operation
Automatic functions help operators, including a Target Memory system, an automatic return function, and automatic storage of the ladder set. These capabilities streamline complex deployments and reduce setup times in stressful scenarios.
Strong collaboration and proven performance
The Dresden Fire Department praised Rosenbauer for comprehensive and competent support from the initial discussions through acceptance.As entering service, the new L32A-XS ladders have repeatedly demonstrated their operational value in real incidents.
Key specifications at a glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | L32A-XS turntable ladder |
| Space-saving design | Articulated arm with joint integrated into arm |
| Minimum cage distance | 6.40 meters from bogie center |
| Rotation | 180 degrees in tight spaces |
| Overhead line function | Activates ladder without moving the basket into working position |
| Rescue basket | HR-500 MF with high load capacity and modular options |
| Lighting | Powerful LED headlights |
| Power outlets | Onboard sockets for electric tools |
| Safety features | Self-protection nozzles |
| Imaging | Front basket floor camera with live feed to control |
| Automation | TMS, ARF, automatic storage |
Why this matters for urban firefighting — evergreen insights
Cities with dense cores and limited maneuvering space benefit from telescoping and articulated ladders that maximize reach while minimizing deployment footprint. Integrated lighting, power, and safety systems reduce setup times and heighten operator situational awareness. Cameras and live feeds from the basket improve coordination between on‑scene crews and the control room.
As urban environments evolve, firefighting fleets that pair compact design with high adaptability will remain essential for fast, safe, and effective responses in crowded districts and near fixed infrastructure such as tram networks.
Engage with the story
What other cities could benefit most from this space‑savvy ladder technology? How does this compare with older ladders used in your area?
Share your thoughts and experiences below. Has your city faced challenges with deploying aerial ladders in tight urban spaces? Leave a comment to join the discussion.
