On March 29, 2025, a troop train from the Russian Federation arrived in the Republic of Belarus. According to information received, the troop train, numbered 961, crossed the state border around 10:15–10:30 PM via the railway interstate junction point (ISJP) Krasnoye (Russian Railways) – Osinovka (Belarusian Railway).
The train consist then proceeded to Orsha-Tsentralnaya station, where a locomotive change and locomotive crew change were performed.
The estimated arrival time at Orsha-Tsentralnaya station was approximately 11:15–11:30 PM.
After the locomotive change operations, the train consist continued along the Orsha – Minsk section to Ozerishche station. Estimated departure time: 12:30–01:00 AM on March 30, 2025.
On the same day, March 30, between 07:30–08:00 AM, the unloading of Russian military equipment took place at Ozerishche station (Minsk Division of Belarusian Railway, NOD-1) near Minsk.
According to our data, the troop train consisted of 14 flatcars and 1 passenger car with Russian Armed Forces personnel. The flatcars were used to transport armored vehicles, which were identified as “Tigr” armored vehicles*, some of which were medical modifications with red cross markings. The absence of heavy equipment and the presence solely of armored vehicles of this type may indicate the transfer of a specialized unit operating as a small, mobile force.
* A standard four-axle railway flatcar can accommodate two “Tigr” armored vehicles, with the necessary securing equipment.
Ozerishche station is located near several military units, including the 120th Separate Mechanized Brigade, the 127th Guards Signal Brigade, and the 56th Separate Signal Regiment. This area is often used for the temporary deployment and transfer of Russian troops as part of joint so-called “union activities.” Thus, the arrival of troop train No. 961 may be related to either the rotation of Russian armed forces in Belarus or preparation for the next stage of joint exercises.
The exact departure station of the troop train and information about the sending military unit could not be established at this time.
We continue to monitor and provide information on military railway transport via Belarusian Railway. Additional information will be updated upon receipt.
