Railway test circuit in Shcherbinka
The Railway test circuit in Shcherbinka is a testing facility south of Moscow where trains are evaluated under real-world conditions. The site features three specialized tracks: the primary track spans 6 kilometers and allows speeds up to 130 kilometers per hour (80 miles), while two shorter sections of about 5.7 kilometers each are used to test the durability of freight cars and railway components under heavy loads.
The circuit was established in 1932 as part of the VNIIZHT research institute to test railway equipment in real operational conditions. Over decades, diverse train types have been evaluated here, from locomotives to modern passenger trains like the Sapsan and Lastochka, making this facility a key contributor to advances in Russian railway technology.
The facility is accessible by road and located near Shcherbinka south of Moscow, with nearby options for food and rest. Visits are typically restricted to authorized personnel or organized tours, as it is an active research and testing center with strict security protocols.
The facility tests trains weighing up to 8,000 tons daily to examine how wheels and rails perform under extreme loads. These intensive durability tests across different weather conditions allow engineers to identify weaknesses and improve safety long before trains enter passenger or freight service.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
