Madrid is poised to significantly expand its logistics capabilities with the arrival of automated rail mounted gantry (A-RMG) cranes from Latvian manufacturer JSC RIKON. The first of three cranes has been shipped to the Madrid-Vicálvaro Intermodal Terminal, a major project currently under development by ADIF, Spain’s state-owned railway infrastructure company. This delivery marks a key step in modernizing Spain’s rail infrastructure and boosting its capacity for handling increasing freight volumes.
The new terminal is designed to streamline the movement of goods between road and rail, reducing congestion and improving efficiency. The investment in automated technology, specifically these A-RMG cranes, signals a commitment to adopting cutting-edge solutions for logistics challenges. RIKON’s involvement highlights the growing trend of utilizing automation to optimize port and terminal operations, increasing throughput and reducing operational costs. The cranes each have a 40-tonne lifting capacity, according to WorldCargo News.
RIKON’s Expanding Footprint in Spain
This shipment builds on RIKON’s existing presence in the Spanish market. Earlier in 2025, the company completed the installation of two remote-controlled RMG cranes at the València-Font de Sant Lluís intermodal terminal, also operated by ADIF. The Madrid project represents a further evolution of their collaboration, moving towards fully automated systems. RIKON is recognized as one of the few European companies capable of designing and manufacturing Double Jib Level Luffing cranes serially on its own, as stated on their company website.
The cranes delivered to València are equipped with RIKON’s in-house developed RROS (RIKON Remote Operation System), a remote-control solution for gantry container cranes. This technology allows operators to manage equipment with increased precision and improved ergonomics, enhancing both safety and efficiency. The system also shields personnel from adverse weather conditions, improving working conditions.
Automated Technology and Intermodal Connectivity
The Madrid-Vicálvaro terminal is strategically positioned to connect the Port of Valencia, Spain’s busiest container port with an estimated throughput of 5.5 million TEU in 2024, to inland destinations via the Mediterranean Corridor. The automated RMG cranes will play a crucial role in efficiently transferring containers between railcars and trucks, facilitating seamless multimodal operations. The terminal’s development is a significant investment in Spain’s logistics infrastructure, as noted in a RIKON press release from October 28, 2025.
JSC RIKON, established as a leading European manufacturer of heavy lifting equipment, specializes in the design and production of cranes for various industries, including shipyards, ports, and industrial enterprises. The company’s facilities encompass 35,000 square meters, including well-equipped production shops and a railway line, enabling comprehensive manufacturing capabilities.
Looking Ahead
The completion of the Madrid-Vicálvaro Intermodal Terminal and the full deployment of the automated RMG cranes are expected to significantly enhance Spain’s freight transport network. RIKON’s continued expansion into the MHC (Mobile Harbor Crane) and STS (Ship-to-Shore) markets, as reported on DryCargoMag in March 2025, suggests a broader ambition to become a key player in the global port equipment industry. The next phase will involve the installation and commissioning of the remaining two cranes, followed by comprehensive testing and integration with the terminal’s overall operating system.
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