Escorts F15 Fighter vs Escorts HYDRA 12: the two differ on 45 of 53 listed specs. The main differences are Engine (VECV 74 HP vs E-Kubota 50 HP), Operating Weight (17140 kg vs 10300 Kg), Weight (17140 kg vs 10300 kg), Fuel Tank (NA vs 50 L). The other 8 specs are the same.
Specs from OEM brochures · comparison updated Aug 2026
* Ex-factory price ranges are indicative for Sep 2026 and change with variant, city and offers; confirm with the dealer. On-road cost adds transport, RTO, insurance and accessories. Disclaimer
The comparisons provided are based on the technical specifications published by the respective OEMs on their official websites and brochures. Please confirm these details directly with the OEMs before making any final decision.
Key Highlights
Escorts F15 Fighter
Escorts HYDRA 12
Escorts F15 Fighter
VS
Escorts HYDRA 12
Crane
Escorts F15 Fighter vs Escorts HYDRA 12: the two differ on 45 of 53 listed specs. The main differences are Engine (VECV 74 HP vs E-Kubota 50 HP), Operating Weight (17140 kg vs 10300 Kg), Weight (17140 kg vs 10300 kg), Fuel Tank (NA vs 50 L). The other 8 specs are the same.
Specs from OEM brochures · comparison updated Aug 2026
Escorts F15 Fighter
₹35.0 Lakh Onwards*
Escorts HYDRA 12
₹18.0 Lakh Onwards*
Particulars
Escorts F15 Fighter
Escorts HYDRA 12
Escorts F15 Fighter vs HYDRA 12: Which One Should You Buy?
Both cranes come from Escorts Kubota, so parts and service work the same way for either one. The Escorts F15 Fighter lifts more weight, drives on all four wheels, and reaches higher, so it suits heavy, tough-ground work. The Escorts HYDRA 12 is lighter, turns in a smaller space, and carries more fuel, so it is easier to move around a tight or busy site.
If your jobs are heavy lifts on rough or open ground, the F15 Fighter's extra power and four-wheel drive make the work easier. If you work in narrow lanes, crowded yards, or need the crane to turn sharply between tasks, the HYDRA 12 is the better fit and costs less to buy. See the full Escorts crane range, all cranes, or read our crane buying guide.
Escorts F15 Fighter
Pros:
Higher max lifting capacity of 15 Tonnes
More powerful engine with 75 HP
4 Wheel Drive for tough terrains
10 forward and 2 reverse speeds providing flexibility in movement
Wider boom luffing range of -10° to +65° provides better control
Higher max boom height of 21.0 m for extended reach
Cons:
More expensive with a price range of ₹ 31 - 33 Lakhs
Heavier operating weight at 16550 kg could limit mobility in certain situations
Larger minimum turning radius of 7200 mm may affect maneuverability in tight spaces
Escorts HYDRA 12
Pros:
Lower price range of ₹ 18 - 20 Lakhs makes it more affordable
Lighter operating weight of 8850 kg enhances mobility
Articulation up to 50° allows for greater maneuverability
Smaller minimum turning radius of 6250 mm beneficial for tight spaces
Larger fuel tank capacity of 45 L
Cons:
Lower max lifting capacity of 12 Tonnes
Less powerful engine with 49.5 HP
Limited to 2 Wheel Drive
Lower max boom height of 11 m restricts reach
Fewer speed options with 8 forward and 2 reverse gears
Pros:
Cons:
Closing Recommendation
Both cranes come from the same maker, so the real choice is about your site, not the brand. Choose the Escorts F15 Fighter when your work means heavy lifts on rough or open ground and you need four-wheel drive and more reach. Choose the Escorts HYDRA 12 when your site is tight, you turn often, and you want a lighter machine that costs less to buy. So match the machine to your work: F15 Fighter for heavy lifts on rough ground, HYDRA 12 for lighter lifts in close spaces.
Escorts F15 Fighter Vs Escorts HYDRA 12 Crane Price, Technical Specifications & Features
The Escorts F15 Fighter is a 15-ton pick-and-carry crane for construction, steel erection, and industrial use in India. It is equipped with a 74 HP VECV diesel engine, ensuring strong output in demanding conditions. The machine can handle 15 tonnes and offers a boom reach of 18.2 metres. Enhanced hydraulic components and a strengthened slew mechanism improve cycle speed and overall job site efficiency. This 15-ton crane from Escort Kubota Construction Equipment supports smooth material handling along with reliable height-based lifting operations. The redesigned cabin improves field visibility and helps reduce operator strain during extended shifts. The Escorts F15 Fighter crane price in India starts at ₹35.0 lakh onwards*, depending on configuration and location. This Escorts cranes is well-suited for contractors, EPC firms, and rental businesses seeking higher on-site productivity.
The Escorts Hydra 12 is a 12-ton pick and carry crane designed for construction, infrastructure, and industrial lifting across India. It runs on an E-Kubota diesel engine that produces 50 HP, ensuring reliable hydraulic performance on busy job sites. The Hydra 12 crane can lift a maximum of 12 tonnes at a specific radius with a boom length of 9.6 to 11.3 metres. Its compact size provides excellent stability on uneven ground. A well-designed hydraulic system cuts cycle times and boosts productivity on site. The Escorts Hydra 12 crane price in India starts at ₹18.0 Lakh onwards*, based on configuration and location. This Escorts crane is an ideal choice for contractors, EPC firms, and crane rental operators looking for a cost-effective 12-ton hydra crane.
Escorts F15 Fighter vs HYDRA 12: Which One Should You Buy?
Both cranes come from Escorts Kubota, so parts and service work the same way for either one. The Escorts F15 Fighter lifts more weight, drives on all four wheels, and reaches higher, so it suits heavy, tough-ground work. The Escorts HYDRA 12 is lighter, turns in a smaller space, and carries more fuel, so it is easier to move around a tight or busy site.
If your jobs are heavy lifts on rough or open ground, the F15 Fighter's extra power and four-wheel drive make the work easier. If you work in narrow lanes, crowded yards, or need the crane to turn sharply between tasks, the HYDRA 12 is the better fit and costs less to buy. See the full Escorts crane range, all cranes, or read our crane buying guide.
Escorts F15 Fighter
Pros:
Higher max lifting capacity of 15 Tonnes
More powerful engine with 75 HP
4 Wheel Drive for tough terrains
10 forward and 2 reverse speeds providing flexibility in movement
Wider boom luffing range of -10° to +65° provides better control
Higher max boom height of 21.0 m for extended reach
Cons:
More expensive with a price range of ₹ 31 - 33 Lakhs
Heavier operating weight at 16550 kg could limit mobility in certain situations
Larger minimum turning radius of 7200 mm may affect maneuverability in tight spaces
Escorts HYDRA 12
Pros:
Lower price range of ₹ 18 - 20 Lakhs makes it more affordable
Lighter operating weight of 8850 kg enhances mobility
Articulation up to 50° allows for greater maneuverability
Smaller minimum turning radius of 6250 mm beneficial for tight spaces
Larger fuel tank capacity of 45 L
Cons:
Lower max lifting capacity of 12 Tonnes
Less powerful engine with 49.5 HP
Limited to 2 Wheel Drive
Lower max boom height of 11 m restricts reach
Fewer speed options with 8 forward and 2 reverse gears
Pros:
Cons:
Closing Recommendation
Both cranes come from the same maker, so the real choice is about your site, not the brand. Choose the Escorts F15 Fighter when your work means heavy lifts on rough or open ground and you need four-wheel drive and more reach. Choose the Escorts HYDRA 12 when your site is tight, you turn often, and you want a lighter machine that costs less to buy. So match the machine to your work: F15 Fighter for heavy lifts on rough ground, HYDRA 12 for lighter lifts in close spaces.
Escorts F15 Fighter Vs Escorts HYDRA 12 Crane Price, Technical Specifications & Features
The Escorts F15 Fighter is a 15-ton pick-and-carry crane for construction, steel erection, and industrial use in India. It is equipped with a 74 HP VECV diesel engine, ensuring strong output in demanding conditions. The machine can handle 15 tonnes and offers a boom reach of 18.2 metres. Enhanced hydraulic components and a strengthened slew mechanism improve cycle speed and overall job site efficiency. This 15-ton crane from Escort Kubota Construction Equipment supports smooth material handling along with reliable height-based lifting operations. The redesigned cabin improves field visibility and helps reduce operator strain during extended shifts. The Escorts F15 Fighter crane price in India starts at ₹35.0 lakh onwards*, depending on configuration and location. This Escorts cranes is well-suited for contractors, EPC firms, and rental businesses seeking higher on-site productivity.
The Escorts Hydra 12 is a 12-ton pick and carry crane designed for construction, infrastructure, and industrial lifting across India. It runs on an E-Kubota diesel engine that produces 50 HP, ensuring reliable hydraulic performance on busy job sites. The Hydra 12 crane can lift a maximum of 12 tonnes at a specific radius with a boom length of 9.6 to 11.3 metres. Its compact size provides excellent stability on uneven ground. A well-designed hydraulic system cuts cycle times and boosts productivity on site. The Escorts Hydra 12 crane price in India starts at ₹18.0 Lakh onwards*, based on configuration and location. This Escorts crane is an ideal choice for contractors, EPC firms, and crane rental operators looking for a cost-effective 12-ton hydra crane.
45 differ · 8 identical
Key highlights: Escorts F15 Fighter vs Escorts HYDRA 12 Crane
Escorts F15 Fighter
Escorts HYDRA 12
Engine Make
Volvo Eicher
Escorts Kubota E4.391NA
Articulation
36.3º
Up to 54°
Max. Speed
42 km/h
29 km/h
Fuel Tank
NA
50 L
Hydraulic Tank
NA
70 L
Overall Length
10075 mm
10050 mm
Overall Width
2450 mm
2410 mm
Wheelbase
3950 mm
4350 mm
Boom Luffing Range
-10° to +65°
-5° to + 62°
Warranty
1 Year
1 Year
Key highlights: Escorts F15 Fighter vs Escorts HYDRA 12 Crane
Escorts F15 Fighter
Escorts HYDRA 12
Engine Make
Volvo Eicher
Escorts Kubota E4.391NA
Articulation
36.3º
Up to 54°
Max. Speed
42 km/h
29 km/h
Fuel Tank
NA
50 L
Hydraulic Tank
NA
70 L
Overall Length
10075 mm
10050 mm
Overall Width
2450 mm
2410 mm
Wheelbase
3950 mm
4350 mm
Boom Luffing Range
-10° to +65°
-5° to + 62°
Warranty
1 Year
1 Year
Full specifications: Escorts F15 Fighter vs Escorts HYDRA 12 Crane
Engine
Escorts F15 Fighter
Escorts HYDRA 12
Engine Make
Volvo Eicher
Escorts Kubota E4.391NA
Engine Type
CEV-V, Diesel Engine, High Pressure Common Rail System (HPCR) Technology,Turbocharged, Water Cooled, ECU Control Engine Management System
CEV Stage V, 4 cylinders, Naturally Aspirated, Electronic, Common Rail Direct Injection
Max Power
74 HP (55 kW) @ 2200 RPM
50 HP (37 kW) @ 2200 RPM
Battery
12 V Negative Earth; 120Ah x 2 Battery for long life
12V, Negative Earth, 88 Ah
Alternator
NA
NA
Lifting Capacity
Escorts F15 Fighter
Escorts HYDRA 12
Max. Lifting Capacity
15 Tonnes
12 Tonnes
Transmission & Clutch
Escorts F15 Fighter
Escorts HYDRA 12
Drive
4 Wheel Drive
2 Wheel drive
Type
Synchromesh transmission with 10 forward and 2 reverse speeds with Auxiliary Gear Box and Hi-low & 2WD/4WD mode selector
Heavy-duty transmission developed especially for crane applications. Constant mesh gearbox coupled with a robust straight drive axle. 8 forward and 2 reverse speeds with high/low selector lever.
Steering System
Escorts F15 Fighter
Escorts HYDRA 12
Steering Type
Full power orbitrol with twin hydraulic double acting rams
Articulated power steering hydraulically controlled through 2 hydraulic jacks
Articulation
36.3º
Up to 54°
Turning Radius
7200 mm
6300 mm
Hoist Mechanism
Escorts F15 Fighter
Escorts HYDRA 12
Hoist
Hydraulically operated with 4 falls Built in Safety brakes
4 falls; Hydraulic winch (Winch Capacity 10T) Rope dia 13 mm
Hoist Speed
NA
NA
Brakes
Escorts F15 Fighter
Escorts HYDRA 12
Front Wheels
Fully air operated 'S' cam dual curcuit brakes on front wheels
‘S’ cam pneumatically actuated drum brakes
Rear Wheels
Fully air operated 'S' cam dual curcuit brakes on rear wheels
Pneumatically actuated disc brakes
Parking Brake
Air operated, spring actuated, fail safe brakes on front & rear wheels
Hand control valve operated; Air-assisted Hydraulic parking brakes at all wheels
Service Capacity
Escorts F15 Fighter
Escorts HYDRA 12
Engine Oil
NA
NA
Fuel Tank
NA
50 L
Hydraulic Tank
NA
70 L
Transmission Oil
NA
NA
Overall Dimensions & Weight
Escorts F15 Fighter
Escorts HYDRA 12
Overall Length With Bucket
10075 mm
10050 mm
Overall Width
2450 mm
2410 mm
Overall Height
3215 mm
3050 mm
Wheel Base
3950 mm
4350 mm
Operating Weight
17140 kg
10300 Kg
Front Track
1810 mm
1820 mm
Rear Track
1810 mm
1670 mm
Front Tyres
11 x 20-16 PR (4 Nos.)
10.00 x 20-16 PR (4 Nos.)
Rear Tyres
11 x 20-16 PR (4 Nos.)
13.00 x 24-12 PR (2 Nos.)
Boom
Escorts F15 Fighter
Escorts HYDRA 12
Telescoping
4 parts boom; 3 parts hydraulically powered & fully synchronized; 4th part power extended & manually pinned for safety
3 Part, box type, heavy duty boom, hydraulically operated, through 2 jacks at boom top
Derricking
NA
Through double acting jacks
Boom Luffing Time
NA
NA
Boom Luffing Range
-10° to +65°
-5° to + 62°
Boom Height
18.2 m
9.6 m, 11.3 m
Full specifications: Escorts F15 Fighter vs Escorts HYDRA 12 Crane
Engine
Escorts F15 Fighter
Escorts HYDRA 12
Engine Make
Volvo Eicher
Escorts Kubota E4.391NA
Engine Type
CEV-V, Diesel Engine, High Pressure Common Rail System (HPCR) Technology,Turbocharged, Water Cooled, ECU Control Engine Management System
CEV Stage V, 4 cylinders, Naturally Aspirated, Electronic, Common Rail Direct Injection
Max Power
74 HP (55 kW) @ 2200 RPM
50 HP (37 kW) @ 2200 RPM
Battery
12 V Negative Earth; 120Ah x 2 Battery for long life
12V, Negative Earth, 88 Ah
Alternator
NA
NA
Lifting Capacity
Escorts F15 Fighter
Escorts HYDRA 12
Max. Lifting Capacity
15 Tonnes
12 Tonnes
Transmission Clutch
Escorts F15 Fighter
Escorts HYDRA 12
Drive
4 Wheel Drive
2 Wheel drive
Type
Synchromesh transmission with 10 forward and 2 reverse speeds with Auxiliary Gear Box and Hi-low & 2WD/4WD mode selector
Heavy-duty transmission developed especially for crane applications. Constant mesh gearbox coupled with a robust straight drive axle. 8 forward and 2 reverse speeds with high/low selector lever.
Steering
Escorts F15 Fighter
Escorts HYDRA 12
Steering Type
Full power orbitrol with twin hydraulic double acting rams
Articulated power steering hydraulically controlled through 2 hydraulic jacks
Articulation
36.3º
Up to 54°
Turning Radius
7200 mm
6300 mm
Hoist Mechanism
Escorts F15 Fighter
Escorts HYDRA 12
Hoist
Hydraulically operated with 4 falls Built in Safety brakes
4 falls; Hydraulic winch (Winch Capacity 10T) Rope dia 13 mm
Hoist Speed
NA
NA
Brakes
Escorts F15 Fighter
Escorts HYDRA 12
Front Wheels
Fully air operated 'S' cam dual curcuit brakes on front wheels
‘S’ cam pneumatically actuated drum brakes
Rear Wheels
Fully air operated 'S' cam dual curcuit brakes on rear wheels
Pneumatically actuated disc brakes
Parking Brake
Air operated, spring actuated, fail safe brakes on front & rear wheels
Hand control valve operated; Air-assisted Hydraulic parking brakes at all wheels
Service Capacity
Escorts F15 Fighter
Escorts HYDRA 12
Engine Oil
NA
NA
Fuel Tank
NA
50 L
Hydraulic Tank
NA
70 L
Transmission Oil
NA
NA
Overall Dimension And Weight
Escorts F15 Fighter
Escorts HYDRA 12
Overall Length With Bucket
10075 mm
10050 mm
Overall Width
2450 mm
2410 mm
Overall Height
3215 mm
3050 mm
Wheel Base
3950 mm
4350 mm
Operating Weight
17140 kg
10300 Kg
Front Track
1810 mm
1820 mm
Rear Track
1810 mm
1670 mm
Front Tyres
11 x 20-16 PR (4 Nos.)
10.00 x 20-16 PR (4 Nos.)
Rear Tyres
11 x 20-16 PR (4 Nos.)
13.00 x 24-12 PR (2 Nos.)
Boom
Escorts F15 Fighter
Escorts HYDRA 12
Telescoping
4 parts boom; 3 parts hydraulically powered & fully synchronized; 4th part power extended & manually pinned for safety
3 Part, box type, heavy duty boom, hydraulically operated, through 2 jacks at boom top
Questions buyers ask about the Escorts F15 Fighter vs Escorts HYDRA 12
Ans.
The Escorts F15 Fighter lifts more weight, up to 15 tonnes, against the HYDRA 12's 12 tonnes. If your work often needs the higher figure, the F15 Fighter gives you more margin for safety.
Ans.
The Escorts HYDRA 12 turns easier in a tight space. It has a smaller turning circle and steering that swings up to 50 degrees, so it fits into narrow lanes and crowded yards more easily than the bigger F15 Fighter.
Ans.
The Escorts F15 Fighter is better on rough ground. It drives on all four wheels, while the HYDRA 12 drives on two. Four-wheel drive gives more grip on soft, uneven, or sloped sites.
Ans.
The Escorts HYDRA 12 needs fewer fuel stops for its size. It carries a bigger fuel tank relative to its smaller engine, so it can run longer between fill-ups on normal, lighter jobs.
Ans.
Yes, in one way. Since both are Escorts Kubota machines, you get the same dealer network and parts supply either way. The real choice comes down to the size of your usual lift and how tight your work space is, not the brand.
Ans.
Choose the Escorts F15 Fighter for heavy lifts, rough ground, and jobs that need real reach. Choose the Escorts HYDRA 12 for lighter, everyday lifts in tight spaces where easy turning matters more than raw power. Pick by your usual job, not the bigger number.
Escorts F15 Fighter Vs Escorts HYDRA 12 - Compare Price & Availability Across 600+ Locations in India
Compare Escorts F15 Fighter Vs Escorts HYDRA 12 price and availability across all major cities in India including Mumbai, Pune, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Chennai, Bengaluru, Delhi, Ahmedabad, Indore, Jaipur, Guwahati, and 600+ more locations.
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