SFE “Forests of Ukraine” continues to modernize its fleet of specialized machinery. In particular, the enterprise’s investment plan for 2025 provides for the procurement of 59 tractors. Twenty-one tractors of various types from global manufacturers have already been procured and delivered to the branches. A tender has been announced via the Prozorro platform for an additional 35 identical tractors for seven branches. Each tractor will be fitted with a rotating beacon light and a toolbox containing a set of tools.

 

What are the tractors used for?

tending forest plantations;

skidding timber;

transporting timber to intermediate storage sites;

loading and unloading operations;

construction and maintenance of forest roads (this year alone we plan to equip 200 km).

 

Another key task is fire prevention activities. For example, last year, using tractors, we established 37.6 thousand km of mineralized firebreaks. We also maintained existing firebreaks—172.4 thousand km in 2024. Such operations are carried out twice a year. Tractors are also used to create firebreaks (530 kilometers last year). They transport water tankers and firefighting equipment.

 

Some of the work is carried out by contractors, but a significant share of the operational tasks is performed by the forestry management unit staff using their own machinery.

 

What is the condition of the tractor fleet?

 

Currently, the enterprise’s forestry management units operate almost 2,900 tractors. Of these, 1,900 units are over 10 years old, and 16 % of those are entirely unfit for operation. The majority of the existing tractors are belarusian-made MTZ models, russian T-40s, and UMZ tractors formerly produced in Ukraine. Repairing them is challenging due to the severe shortage of spare parts for such machinery. Some remnants are available in warehouses, but their quality leaves much to be desired. Hence, the need for new tractors is high.

 

What are the advantages of the new equipment?

 

Since 2023, the enterprise has launched a programme to gradually modernize its vehicle fleet, including its tractors. During this period, 103 new units from global manufacturers have already been procured to replace those that are no longer operational. In their use, foresters have noted the following:

new tractors require minimal investment in maintenance, as they perform excellently;

their greater power capacity enables the transport of heavier loads;

these tractors are multifunctional, compatible with cultivators, ploughs, mills and trailers.