The Antigua and Barbuda Port Authority has strengthened its operational capacity with the arrival of a brand-new Liebherr LHM 420 mobile harbor crane valued at US$6.2 million.

The investment comes as a much-needed replacement for the Authority’s former crane, which had been in service since 2001 and had long surpassed its useful life.

Port Manager Darwin Telemaque tells Antigua.news that the old unit had become increasingly unreliable and costly, creating serious setbacks for the port and the wider economy.

“This crane is a far more versatile machine with greater capacity, far more technologically advanced, and a reach that surpasses that of the crane that we had. Our current crane has a reach that would extend 7-8 containers across. It has a width of 16 containers. We are pleased to have this as an addition to our fleet”, he told Antigua.news

He noted that the crane was plagued by mechanical, electrical, and technical problems that hampered productivity, affected efficiency rankings, and resulted in significant challenges for both the private and public sectors.

The constant breakdowns not only disrupted cargo operations but also led to increased costs and lost business opportunities, according to the Port manager.

The decision to acquire a new crane was driven by a combination of factors that underscore its importance to Antigua and Barbuda’s maritime future.

Telemaque stressed that the new Liebherr machine will allow for faster and more efficient cargo handling thanks to its advanced technology and automation systems.

The modern design also provides a safer working environment, replacing an outdated unit that posed risks to operators and support staff.

With reduced maintenance requirements and enhanced reliability, the crane is expected to operate with minimal downtime, cutting costs and allowing for consistent port operations.

Another critical advantage of the new crane is its compliance with updated safety and environmental regulations, ensuring that Antigua and Barbuda keeps pace with international shipping standards.

The LHM 420 also offers greater lifting capacity and reach, enabling the port to handle larger and heavier cargo loads while maintaining flexibility for containers, bulk shipments, scrap handling, heavy lift, and general cargo.

The inclusion of the latest technological advancements, such as remote monitoring and predictive maintenance, further ensures that operations will be efficient and future-ready.

Additionally, the new crane is more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly, reducing the port’s carbon footprint at a time when sustainability is a growing concern.

The specifications of the Liebherr LHM 420 highlight why it is considered one of the most versatile mobile harbor cranes in the world.

It is capable of lifting up to 124 tonnes, with a maximum bulk load of 90 tonnes, and comes with jib length options of either 48 or 54 meters. Depending on configuration, the crane weighs between 371 and 439 tonnes and has the capacity to handle up to 16 rows of containers.

It offers a hoisting and lowering speed of up to 120 meters per minute, a maximum slewing speed of 1.60 revolutions per minute, and a luffing speed of 85 meters per minute. The crane can also travel at a speed of up to five kilometers per hour.

Stability is ensured through either a three-point support system or four supporting pads, while mobility is enhanced by its rubber-tyred undercarriage that allows for 360-degree movement. With an engine power of 725 kilowatts, the LHM 420 is capable of handling up to 38 containers per hour when fitted with a hybrid drive.

It can lift loads to a maximum height of 44 meters and service vessels with widths of up to 55 meters for bulk cargo and 43 meters for scrap handling.

The arrival of this crane is expected to transform operations at the Port of St. John’s by delivering significant improvements in cargo throughput, safety, and reliability.

Telemaque emphasized that this acquisition represents more than just new equipment it positions Antigua and Barbuda as a stronger competitor in regional and global trade.

The LHM 420 provides the port with the tools needed to meet growing shipping volumes, reduce operational costs, and secure long-term returns on investment.

In what marks the beginning of a new era for maritime operations in Antigua and Barbuda, the introduction of the Liebherr LHM 420 mobile harbor crane ensures that the nation remains a competitive and efficient hub for shipping in the Eastern Caribbean.