John Deere Rolls Out Next-Gen F8 & F9 Forage Harvesters for Aussie Farmers

Crestmead, Queensland (11 July, 2025) – John Deere is transforming forage harvesting in Australia with the introduction of its new F8 and F9 Self-Propelled Forage Harvesters, delivering a next-level driving experience, breakthrough automation, and state-of-the-art precision ag features.

Erin Wagstaff, Marketing Manager for Small Ag and Turf at John Deere Australia and New Zealand, said the F8 and F9 models offer a redefined operator experience and will be available for order later this year.

“These machines have been built around the needs of the modern operator,” Ms Wagstaff explained. “From smarter storage to better connectivity and control, every detail has been considered.”

The new wider cabins have been designed with the operator in mind and include comfortable adjustable seats and sweeping windows with panoramic visibility from the header to the 230°-rotating spout.

Operator-First Cabin Design with Comfort & Connectivity

Inside the all-new cab, operators will find enhanced comfort with upgraded adjustable seating, smart storage compartments, and an optional electric door that seals tight. Dedicated holders for phones, cups, and larger items reflect the practical needs of users on long workdays.

Smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto supports seamless connectivity, and the premium infotainment system offers Bluetooth®, hands-free calling, music streaming, and crisp audio quality. Multiple charging ports (USB and 12V) keep all devices powered throughout the day.

For added comfort, the machines include ActiveSeat™, swiveling 16° each way. The ActiveSeat II upgrade provides electric adjustment, heating, cooling, massage, and 90% vertical movement absorption for rough terrain.

Large windows and slim pillars offer panoramic visibility, while a redesigned rear axle allows tight, 6-metre turning – ideal for faster headland maneuvers.

The new wider cabins have been designed with the operator in mind and include comfortable adjustable seats and sweeping windows with panoramic visibility from the header to the 230°-rotating spout.

Smart Controls & Larger, Faster Displays

The F8 and F9 models come with the new ergonomic CommandPRO™ joystick featuring 11 programmable buttons and seamless integration with the G5/G5Plus CommandCenter™ touchscreen. The user interface is context-aware, making navigation simple and efficient.

Operators benefit from a 35% larger and 75% faster forage-specific screen with full HD resolution and quick-access menus. An optional G5Plus Extended Monitor provides dual 12.8" displays for monitoring multiple functions at once, while the corner post screen uses clean infographics for essential stats at a glance.

Powerful Engines and Optimised Fuel Efficiency

All F8 series models are powered by the JD14X engine, proven in the John Deere X9 combines and 9RX tractors. These engines range from 419 HP to 636 HP, while meeting European Stage V emissions standards.

The F9 range (F9 500 to F9 700) features the JD18X engine, offering between 690 HP and 809 HP, delivering high torque and fuel efficiency with advanced engine management, without the need for DEF (diesel exhaust fluid).

For maximum output, the F9 900 and 1000 models run on a Liebherr 24.2L V12, producing up to 1006 HP, ideal for extreme forage conditions.

All engines utilise HarvestMotion™ to deliver high performance at lower RPMs, improving drivability and reducing fuel consumption.

The technology stack includes Active Fill Control, which uses a stereo camera system to control the rotation and flap position of the spout automatically, tracking transport vehicles and aiming the crop for ideal fill strategy.

Advanced Automation & Precision Technology

The new lineup is loaded with John Deere's most advanced Precision Ag tech yet. Features like Ground Speed Automation, Active Fill Control 3.0, and ProTouch Harvest make operating more efficient and less stressful.

• Ground Speed Automation ensures optimal harvesting speed and efficiency automatically.
• Active Fill Control uses stereo cameras to track transport vehicles and direct the spout for ideal filling.
• ProTouch Harvest manages up to nine key functions – from spout positioning to headland turns – with a single button press.

Optional tools like AutoPath™ can be added to support smarter and more accurate operations.

Silage Quality & Processing Upgrades

For better silage quality, the updated DuraDrum cutterhead adapts to varying crop needs, while the IDS 2.0 inoculant dosing system uses HarvestLab™ sensors and dual tanks (50L and 325L) to ensure optimal application of silage additives.

Two new kernel processor options further elevate performance:

• The John Deere Ultimate 250™ with 250mm rolls and temperature monitoring.
• The John Deere XStream 305 with 305mm rolls, electric adjustability, and oil-mist greasing.

Key Features at a Glance

• New cab with enhanced ergonomics and tech
• CommandPRO™ joystick with 11 programmable buttons
• G5/G5Plus CommandCenter™ with extended monitor option
• JD14X and JD18X engines plus Liebherr V12 (F9 900/1000)
• HarvestMotion™ for improved fuel efficiency and output
• Ground Speed Automation, Active Fill Control, and ProTouch Harvest
• IDS 2.0 inoculant system with dual tanks
• New Ultimate 250 and XStream 305 kernel processors

Model year 2026 Line-up

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