Kharkiv Tractor Plant

**Historical Overview:**
– Built during the first Five Year Plan in April 1930 with 10,000 workers.
– Designed by Detroit architect Albert Kahn.
– Production of first test tractors started in August 1931.
– Almost completely destroyed during WWII but restarted production in 1944.
– Achieved maximum productivity in the 1980s with up to 70,000 tractors produced annually.

**Production Achievements:**
– Produced SXTZ 15/30 wheel-type tractors in 1931.
– Introduced the first mass-produced Soviet design tractor in 1937.
– Produced DT-54 diesel tractor from 1949.
– T-74 ploughing tractor introduced in 1962.
– Plant produced its millionth tractor in 1967.

**Post-Soviet Transformation:**
– Transformed into an open joint stock company in 1994.
– Produced various tractors like XTZ-17221, XTZ-17222, T-150 series, and more.
– Also produced military products like artillery tractors and howitzers.
– Plans announced for Ecopolis HTZ as Ukraine’s largest technology park.
– Investment of about $1 billion planned to create over 10,000 high-tech jobs.

**Ownership and Controversies:**
– Alleged Russian plot against the plant in 2016 foiled by SBU.
– Yaroslavskyi’s DCH group resumed control with support from an Austrian businessman.
– SBU discovered plans to provide equipment and blueprints to Russia.
– CEO of Kharkiv Tractor Plant plotted to export equipment to Russia.
– Announced alterations in shareholding structure and plans for construction at Ecopolis KhTZ.

**Impact of Russian Invasion:**
– Plant destroyed and engulfed in fire by Russian shelling in February 2022.
– Production to restart in Halboca, Romania, after moving salvaged equipment.
– Planning permission expedited for new plant in Halboca.
– KhTZ was producing machines for various industries before the invasion.
– Video evidence of explosions and fire at the plant during the invasion.