Moscow, 24 January 2025 — Nornickel has signed a partnership agreement with BELAZ. With Nornickel’s support, BELAZ plans to launch a new line of advanced mining equipment that meets the highest international standards. The partnership aims to supply this state-of-the-art machinery to the Russian and CIS markets.

The cooperation agreement was signed on 23 January 2025 in Zhodino, Belarus. The partners intend to develop and mass-produce underground dump trucks and load-haul-dump (LHD) machines powered by both diesel and alternative energy sources, along with auxiliary mining equipment.

Joint development of new mining equipment has already begun: the first test machines — six MoAZ-75851 underground dump trucks with a 50-tonne payload capacity — are operating at Nornickel’s mines in Norilsk. BELAZ has also assembled a prototype of the MoAZ-4076 LHD machine with a 17.2-tonne payload capacity, designed to work efficiently in tandem with the 50-tonne dump trucks. This new mine loader will be shipped to Norilsk miners in February. Nornickel is the anchor customer and is involved in improving the machine designs and conducting tests. The companies intend to refine the equipment based on test results, accumulated experience, and global best practices.

An important feature of the agreement is its comprehensive scope, which covers not only the development of production expertise but also major overhauls, maintenance, and the timely supply of spare parts.

The parties estimate that Nornickel accounts for about half of the demand for mining equipment among Russian mining companies. This new production facility will be able to almost fully cover these needs.

Nikolay Utkin, Senior Vice President — Head of Relations with Government Authorities at Nornickel, commented:

“Nornickel and BELAZ have a long history of cooperation, but today it is reaching a new level. With our help and support, BELAZ is set to enter a new niche — the production of mining equipment and spare parts, which is currently in demand by all Russian mining companies. This comprehensive approach will strengthen Russia-Belarus economic ties, promote the import substitution of mining equipment in Russia, and minimize risks related to sanctions. Looking ahead, we are also considering expanding our cooperation to establish a repair and maintenance base for mining equipment in Russia, specifically in Krasnoyarsk.”

Sergey Lesin, CEO of BELAZ, noted:

“The agreement with Nornickel is an example of mutually beneficial cooperation that will allow both companies to strengthen their market positions. We are combining our efforts to develop and produce underground mining equipment powered by both traditional fuels and alternative energy sources. This will allow us not only to meet the current market needs of our key partner, the Russian Federation, but also to set new standards in the mining industry by offering top-quality products that meet the strictest requirements.”

Nornickel and BELAZ Sign partnership agreement