Ukrzaliznytsia expects to receive its first Alstom electric locomotive in 2027
Ukrzaliznytsia plans to receive its first Alstom UA8AC electric locomotive in the first quarter of 2027, with a total of 55 such locomotives expected to be delivered by the end of 2029.
Vladimir Shemaev, director of the company’s international projects office, announced the strategic renewal of the freight electric locomotive fleet during a specialized conference in Kyiv. Interfax-Ukraine provides details on the implementation of the €473 million contract, supported by the World Bank and the EBRD.
The need to purchase new equipment stems from significant losses due to Russia’s armed aggression, which damaged over 300 locomotives and completely destroyed about 50. In addition to upgrading its rolling stock, the company is working with Spanish partners to develop a track-gauge-changing bogie, with testing scheduled to begin in two years. Preparations are also underway for a feasibility study on the construction of a high-speed railway from Kyiv to the Polish border in collaboration with Korean experts.
At the same time, Ukrzaliznytsia is implementing a decentralized gas-fired power generation project, under which 40 MW of equipment has already been delivered and a tender for an additional 160 MW has been completed. The energy initiative is supported by European Commission grant funds and technical assistance from the United Kingdom to ensure infrastructure resilience.
The implementation of these projects is intended to serve as the foundation for the development of rail transport and Ukraine’s energy security in the coming years. Preparatory work is currently underway for the installation of power generation units, which will help maintain the network’s operation.
The acquisition of new Alstom locomotives will partially offset the traction deficit recorded in recent years due to constant damage to the rolling stock. The company continues to attract international investment to modernize its technical infrastructure amid martial law. Cooperation with foreign banks and governments is a key factor in implementing the planned large-scale infrastructure changes. In this way, the carrier is laying the groundwork for integration into the European transport system through the unification of standards and the modernization of equipment.
As a reminder, Ukrzaliznytsia is changing train routes to Kryvyi Rih.
JSC "Ukrzaliznytsia" is introducing four additional trips and extending one long-distance route to Yaremche due to increased passenger traffic.
On March 24, 2026, Oleksandr Pertsovskyi, Chairman of the Board of JSC Ukrzaliznytsia, announced a change in the Russian Federation’s shelling tactics, noting that since late 2025, it has begun systematically attacking rolling stock while it is in motion.
