Cargotec has signed a co-operation agreement with Singapore Technologies Kinetics Ltd (ST Kinetics) to develop automated port equipment.

Both parties have agreed to co-operate in developing applications and related systems for container terminal customers. The agreement is a continuation of their earlier successful collaboration on the hydraulic hybrid feature for Kalmar terminal tractors (Forkliftaction.com News #438).

Cargotec senior vice president of port cranes Ismo Matinlauri says the two companies complement each other "extremely well" in port automation solutions. "Combined with its know-how in drive systems and sensor technology, ST Kinetics' local expertise represents a major contribution to our developing customer-focused solutions."

ST Kinetics president Sew Chee Jhuen says that Cargotec introduced the Kalmar hybrid hydraulic drive terminal tractor in 2010 as a result of the companies' partnership in hybrid solutions. "We are delighted to extend our cooperation to the field of automated equipment, in which Cargotec has been a pioneer for over 20 years."

The new partnership will be managed through the Singapore Technology and Competence Centre.

In June, Cargotec announced the opening of its technology and competence centre in Singapore (Forkliftaction.com News #517). The centre is focused on the development of automation systems.

The company is also building the world's largest port automation test area in Finland (Forkliftaction.com News #534).

ST Kinetics is the land systems arm of Singapore Technologies Engineering Ltd, one of Asia's leading defence and engineering companies.