Patriot Crane & Rigging takes first Tadano AC 5.250L-2

The five-axle crane was supplied through RTL Equipment, Tadano’s distributor for Nebraska, and is the largest machine in the Patriot fleet to date. The long-boom version of Tadano’s 250 tonne class all terrain, introduced in 2025, carries a seven-section main boom of 259 ft (around 79 metres) and comes equipped with the IC-1 Plus control system and the six-camera Surround View system.

Built for taxi work

Patriot runs a taxi crane operation serving contractors and industrial customers throughout Nebraska and the wider Midwest, and roadability was central to the purchase. The AC 5.250L-2 can travel in a taxi configuration at 26,500 lb (around 12 tonnes) per axle while still carrying a useful amount of equipment, and its counterweight system is designed so that smaller trucks can be used for support transport where space is tight. Tadano positions the model for urban construction, industrial assembly and tower crane erection, where its combination of capacity and reach pays off.

“We’re thrilled to add the Tadano AC 5.250L-2 to our fleet. This crane gives us the lifting capacity, reach, and versatility needed for several larger and more challenging projects in our region. Combined with its easy roadability between job sites, this was a clear investment in better serving our clients and keeping project timelines on track.”

— Scott “Sham” Shamburg, owner, Patriot Crane & Rigging

Dealer partnership

The sale strengthens the three-way relationship between Patriot, RTL Equipment and Tadano in Nebraska. RTL Equipment CEO Ben Steege said Tadano cranes “really excel in providing a high-quality experience for our customers”, adding that Patriot has “built a sterling reputation on quality and service, and the Tadano machines fit that perfectly”.

Tadano America regional business manager Dave Kuhlman expects the crane to slot straight into the fleet’s core work: “The AC 5.250L-2 is an outstanding machine, and it will be the perfect taxi crane for Patriot’s extensive customer base across Nebraska.”

Patriot Crane & Rigging has been serving Nebraska contractors for more than 14 years and says the new 300-tonner will let it chase bigger and more demanding projects in the region without giving up the quick in-and-out service its taxi crane customers expect.