New Holland launches a redesigned range of Defensor self-propelled sprayers. The new Defensor includes enhancements that enable large farms to raise work rates, improve efficacy and ensure operator comfort.
As before, there are two models, but they now cover a wider customer profile. While the entry-level Defensor remains a 2,500-liter model, the larger machine now has a capacity of 4,000 liters, up from 3,500 liters, to cut refill stops and boost daily output. Respective power outputs are 215hp and 272hp, from Tier 3 six-cylinder FPT NEF 6.7-liter engines. Fuel capacity is 450 liters.
The rear bonnet now has a side cover with gas struts to hold it in position, easing access for engine servicing and radiator cleaning. A new extended access platform and handrail ease cab entry and improve fuel‑tank access via through the new front bonnet. The new access steps can fold at almost 90°, preventing collision with taller crops later in the season.
Operators benefit from a pressurized cab with activated-carbon filter, more internal space and easy access to the CAN ports and the fuse box. Operation has been further simplified by a new multifunction lever that puts all controls in the operator’s right hand. It incorporates a propulsion direction selector, speed control marking and speed preset buttons, plus all key sprayer control functions.
All booms are now built from stainless steel for high durability and extended component life. This also provides stronger mounting for nozzle bodies, ensuring optimal tip angulation for precise spraying. The boom structure now includes an integrated fence nozzle and end-of-bar valves for easier cleaning and maintenance.
New way to operate
With a new transmission, the new Defensor line features independent wheel motors providing individual traction control to each wheel, ensuring higher operating speeds – 48 km/h for transport and 30 km/h for operation – and the ability to climb steeper gradients of up to 30%.
New Defensor sprayers incorporate Eco Mode, a feature that continuously and automatically adjusts engine speed based on the sprayer’s operational needs. This ensures optimal performance with lowest possible fuel consumption.
The new Defensor family features an updated filling station with redesigned components, allowing the tank to be filled from either the front or the side of the machine. The filling monitor displays tank levels and, with the optional filling pump, permits setting of a target volume for automatic filling.
The new air suspension system on the Defensor 4000 further enhances operator comfort. The Defensor 2500 features active caliper suspension that cushions field impacts to ensure smooth operation. Operator comfort is further improved by LED work lights and customizable blue LED lighting across the full width of the boom, easing night spraying and nozzle monitoring. On both models, Auto Fold permits one touch boom opening and closing.
Advanced technologies
The new Defensor sprayers incorporate advanced technologies designed to make operations more precise. These include the “Intelliview 12” monitor which manages all application systems and technologies, with a new interface and increased processing power. It also controls features such as the radio, lighting and operator’s phone, while also supporting remote access.
With five sensors along the boom, “Intelliheight XRT” automatic boom height control provides simultaneous reading both soil and crop canopy distance. This delivers greater precision in detection and response, for maximum boom stability.
When enabled, “Intelliturn” boosts operating efficiency by automating headland manoeuvres, to reduce errors and minimize fatigue. It precisely plans and executes turns into the next pass, for smooth, accurate transitions without manual intervention.
Nozzle-to-nozzle control
The “Intellispray II” option delivers advanced pulse width modulation (PWM) technology for precise application control. It regulates both application rate and pressure at each nozzle through a dedicated PWM valve, now enhanced with individual nozzle section control, ensuring consistent spray quality throughout the entire field.
Integrated with the Inetellispray II system, the boom recirculation feature activates the flow of spray solution between the product tank and the spray boom whenever application is paused. This ensures a consistent mixture from start to finish, preventing sediment build-up that could lead to nozzle clogging.
Optional direct injection for Defensor sprayers comprises two additional 100-litre tanks, from which the products they contain are mixed into the spray solution directly on the boom, avoiding any contact with the mixture in the main tank. This makes it possible to perform regionalized application with precise dosage and variable rate.
On-board connectivity
Integrated telemetry enables seamless operating data management through the CNH FieldOps portal. When connected, data is instantly recorded and monitoring can even be performed in real time, giving operators and managers instant visibility into performance. This permits fleet management from a single platform, tracking of agronomic data for informed decision-making, and customizing of notifications for greater operational control, whether in the field or elsewhere.
The new Defensor series will first be available in Ukraine and Moldova in early 2026.
