Salvatore Lauro passed away at 75
Mar 25, 2026 at 11:07 AM
Technical vulnerability becomes a risk
Mar 25, 2026 at 11:28 AM
Alstom has signed a long-term maintenance contract with LKAB Malmtrafik in Sweden, which has a duration of 12 years. This contract includes technical support as well as the supply of spare parts for 34 locomotives primarily used for the transport of iron ore. According to Alstom, the locomotives, particularly the IORE heavy-haul locomotives, are among the most powerful in the world and are designed for some of the most demanding operational profiles in European rail transport.
The IORE locomotives are said by the company to operate year-round under extreme conditions, which is crucial for their availability and performance for mining and the industrial competitiveness of Sweden. As part of the agreement, Alstom commits to ensuring the availability of the locomotives while providing a predictable cost structure and technical expertise.
Long-term cooperation
The agreement builds on a long-standing partnership between the two companies that has existed since the first delivery of IORE locomotives in 2001. Contracts for technical support and spare parts have been in place since 2007, which were renegotiated in 2016. The current contract, signed in December 2025, represents a continuation of this collaboration.
In addition to maintenance services, Alstom plans to modernize the IORE locomotive fleet. This includes technical upgrades as well as the installation of the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) and the European Train Control System (ETCS). These measures aim to extend the lifespan of the locomotives and ensure the transport of iron ore on the Malmbanan under arctic conditions.
