Krone’s BiG Pack HDP II 1290 square baler setting new standards

Australian hay producers are set to benefit from a major leap forward in baling technology with the arrival of the Krone BiG Pack HDP II 1290 Gen 6, the most advanced large square baler in the company’s history.

The baler was named Farm Machine of the Year 2026 in the forage and harvesting category at Agritechnica 2025 in Hanover, recognising its innovation and industry-leading performance.

The new model delivers denser bales, faster performance and additional tech-savvy features to make the process more efficient, reliable and safer.

Related: Krone celebrates 30 years Down Under with new baler launch

Among the key improvements are a hydraulic starter aid, the EasyFlow Active pick-up for cleaner crop collection, and Krone’s patented V-knotter system which ties bales securely without leaving twine residue.

Moreover, the BiG Pack’s advanced cutting system, revised variable filling system, PowerClean knotter cleaning and ISOBUS-ready controls help producers work efficiently across all crop types and conditions.

Krone’s Oceania Regional Manager, Marco Leying, said the Gen 6 reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to the Australian market.

“Krone engineered the HDP II Gen 6 for professionals who push their machinery hard,” he said.

“Its recognition as Farm Machine of the Year 2026 at Agritechnica reinforces that this model delivers exactly what demanding operators need. From the new cutting rotor to the redesigned bale channel and upgraded hydraulics, every improvement is about boosting throughput and reliability.

“Our team regularly visits Australia to speak with producers and understand their challenges first-hand. Their insights guided many of the updates you see in the Gen 6. This machine reflects what Australian operators have told us they need.”

Optional features include moisture measurement, bale weighing and the BaleCollect accumulator.

Australian Kubota dealers had a first look at the Krone BiG Pack HDP II 1290 Gen 6 at a recent dealer conference. The machine will be available to Australian customers in 2026.