On 1 August 2025, new state standards regulating the requirements for freight and passenger rolling stock of string transport systems (uST) will come into effect in Belarus. These documents have become a key step in the development of unmanned transport technologies and the formation of a new logistics infrastructure.

What documents have been approved?

By Resolution No. 65 of the State Committee for Standardisation of 30 May 2025, two technical standards were introduced:

• STB 2679-2025 - "String transport systems. Rolling stock. Rail freight transport vehicles. General technical conditions"
• STB 2681-2025 - "String transport systems. Rolling stock. Means of rail transport passenger. General technical conditions"

The regulations come into force on 1 August 2025 and address the entire range of operational, technical and design characteristics of rail drones.

What does this mean for logistics?

For logistics operators, including international companies, the advent of these standards means greater predictability, safety and efficiency in transport. Specifically, the documents:

• categorise transport by speed, power type and design;
• set requirements for mechanical components, safety systems, doors, windows and interiors;
• regulate the characteristics of freight rail trains, making it possible to optimise logistics processes, reduce costs and increase the reliability of supply chains.

Special attention is paid to the adaptation of transport solutions to Belarusian climatic conditions and international standards, which opens up opportunities for the integration of uST into global routes.

Quality control and testing

The standards also prescribe test and inspection methods that make it possible to assess the compliance of equipment with the most stringent requirements. This ensures consistent quality and reliable operation of vehicles under new technologies.

Prospects for the industry

The adoption of these standards is not just a formality, but a signal that Belarus is ready to implement innovative solutions in logistics and transport. String unmanned systems could become an important part of future intermodal routes and strengthen the competitiveness of logistics operators against the backdrop of growing demands for speed and sustainability of delivery.

RTL Alliance continues to monitor regulatory developments and the implementation of advanced transport solutions to offer customers technologically relevant and cost-effective logistics services.