Kalmar Secures Order for Hybrid Straddle Carriers to Boost Antwerp Port Training

Event summary

  • Kalmar has secured an order for two hybrid straddle carriers from OCHA in Antwerp, Belgium.
  • The order was booked in Q1 2026, with delivery scheduled for Q4 2026.
  • OCHA's training program includes one week on simulators followed by two weeks on real machines.
  • The new machines will join OCHA's existing fleet of five Kalmar straddle carriers.

The big picture

Kalmar's order from OCHA underscores the growing emphasis on specialized training for port workers, particularly in the operation of advanced equipment like straddle carriers. This deal aligns with broader industry trends towards sustainability, as hybrid equipment becomes increasingly integral to efficient and eco-friendly cargo handling. The strategic partnership between Kalmar and OCHA, spanning over two decades, highlights the importance of long-term collaborations in maintaining high standards of training and operational excellence in the maritime sector.

What we're watching

Training Demand
How the increased training capacity will impact the availability of skilled port workers in Antwerp.
Hybrid Adoption
Whether the deployment of hybrid straddle carriers will accelerate the adoption of sustainable equipment in port operations.
Market Expansion
The pace at which Kalmar can secure similar orders from other major port training centers globally.