Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Kremlin chief Vladimir Putin has increasingly traveled by train instead of by plane as before. This has nothing to do with the fact that the Russian president has become more environmentally conscious – rather he is concerned about his safety. Because in the armored cars of his special train he is better protected than in the air. He would be afraid of terrorist attacks.
The Dossier Center platform, run by Kremlin critic Mikhail Khodorkovsky, 59, reported on Putin’s switch to rail. The medium relies on an anonymous source who is said to be familiar with Putin. This information was confirmed by another source close to the Russian presidential administration.
The President I armored wagons would be barely distinguishable from many normal Russian wagons – they are also white with gray and red accents. However, there are radio antennas on the roofs that enable encrypted communication. These are hidden under covers.
Heavy armor requires an extra shaft
There are other differences: Putin’s train is pulled by three locomotives and its armor protects against attacks. Instead of the usual four axles, the cars have six axles due to the increased weight due to the armor. There is a bedroom and conference room in the presidential carriage, and the Kremlin head’s entourage travel in their own carriages. A special carriage has also been modified so that it can be used for encrypted communication. The train would have cost almost 13 million euros.
The timetable will be changed for special trains
But armor isn’t the only thing that ensures safety: unlike airplanes, whose routes can be followed by different services, train movements are not so easy to track. Besides Putin, only one other person is allowed to use the train – that is Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin, the platform said. The timetable of the railway company will also be adjusted, so that the special train can run continuously and at maximum speed.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
