Ukraine integrates domestic industry into French locomotive production

France’s Alstom Transport has selected Ukrainian manufacturers to supply components for 55 dual-voltage UA8AC electric freight locomotives destined for Ukrzaliznytsia, Ukraine’s state-owned railway company. This development signifies a new phase in what Ukrzaliznytsia describes as the largest locomotive procurement in its history, integrating Ukrainian industry into the production of the country’s first European-made freight locomotives.

Ukrainian Suppliers Integrated into Alstom’s Supply Chain

Following the signing of locomotive supply contracts, Ukrzaliznytsia provided Alstom Transport with a list of Ukrainian companies already engaged in locomotive repair and rolling stock maintenance. Alstom specialists then conducted their own monitoring and competitive selection process from this list to identify potential participants for the localization of locomotive production. Ukrainian manufacturers are set to produce crucial components including radio stations, locomotive safety and fire alarm systems, braking system parts, couplings, cab heaters, seats, and sand delivery system components. Negotiations are ongoing for the production of wheel sets, a component UZ considers strategically vital due to the frequent need for replacement throughout a locomotive’s lifecycle, potentially securing long-term orders.

First Locomotive Body Completed, Deliveries to Begin in 2027

Production of the 55 UA8AC locomotives is already underway. The body of the first locomotive has been completed at Alstom’s Belfort plant in France. This initial unit is scheduled to arrive in Ukraine in early 2027 for certification and endurance testing. The full delivery of the 55 locomotives is anticipated to be completed by May 2029. This initiative comes as Ukrzaliznytsia reports that rolling stock has become a primary target for Russian strikes, with two trains reportedly hit within a 24-hour period.

New Locomotives Enhance Ukraine’s Rail Capabilities

The contract with Alstom was secured through an international tender organized by the World Bank, which saw participation from six leading rolling stock manufacturers from Europe and Asia. The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development also contributed to the financing. The UA8AC locomotives are based on the Traxx Hauler platform and represent a significant upgrade for Ukraine’s rail network, being the first European-manufactured freight electric locomotives to be operated in the country. Their dual-voltage capability, allowing operation on both alternating and direct current, enhances versatility and efficiency. These locomotives boast a maximum power of up to 9,000 kW, a top speed of 120 km/h, and a starting tractive effort of 800 kN, complemented by a modern engine management system and improved crew cab conditions.

This collaboration underscores a strategic effort by Ukraine to rebuild and modernize its critical infrastructure while simultaneously fostering domestic industrial capacity and integrating it into European manufacturing standards, even amidst ongoing security challenges.