During the unusually snowy winter of 2026, employees of Research Laboratory No. 4 of Tupolev KNITU-KAI independently assembled a compact mini tractor. The initiative and all funding were personal.
The engineers purchased metal profiles, mechanical components, hydraulics, a classic gearbox, wheels, reduction gearboxes with axles, an engine, and domestically produced distributors. Off-spec leftover materials from the laboratory's previous orders were used in the design. VAZ components noticeably reduced the cost of the machine.
The machine received all-wheel drive for confident operation in deep snow. The articulated frame, consisting of two sections, turns by means of a hydraulic cylinder through a hinge without wheel rotation. The hydraulics control the front loader (KUN) in the form of a boom: one cylinder is responsible for the bucket tilt, while the second lifts loads of up to 250 kg. A lifting mechanism for quick replacement of mounted equipment is installed on the frame.
The tractor is already clearing snow near the building, transporting cargo, and carrying out loading and unloading operations for the laboratory's needs.
Read more materials on the topic:
- A unique biathlon for BELARUS tractors: the 3522 and 82.1 were tested in winter off-road conditions
- The engine runs on diesel and electricity: a unique tractor has begun testing at Timiryazev University
- A unique Belarus 3522 tractor simulator has been installed at AGAU; there are no others like it in Russia
