Progress Rail and Saudia Arabia Railways Expand Strategic Relationship with Order for 33 EMD Locomotives and Agreement to Advance Rail Capabilities in Saudi Arabia

BERLIN (Sept. 22, 2026) – Progress Rail and Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR) announced today at InnoTrans agreements that further strengthen their long-standing relationship and support the continued growth of the railway network in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA).

The announcements include an order for 33 EMD® SD70ACS heavy-haul locomotives for SAR's Northern Railway, as well as a memorandum of understanding (MOU) focused on expanding localized rail capabilities and lifecycle services within the KSA.

"Customers need suppliers who can solve today's operational challenges while supporting tomorrow's growth," said Jack Zhang, executive vice president of locomotive for Progress Rail. "Together with SAR, we are strengthening rail capabilities across Saudi Arabia through advanced locomotives, local services and technical expertise. These agreements reflect our shared commitment to long-term investment, innovation and sustainable growth for the railway industry in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia."

The locomotive order will increase SAR's fleet to more than 150 EMD locomotives and support growing freight demand across the KSA. Designed specifically for desert conditions, the SD70ACS platform delivers proven heavy-haul performance, reliability and efficiency for customers operating in harsh environments.

The MOU establishes a framework for Progress Rail and SAR to explore localization initiatives, workforce development and supply chain opportunities that support the continued advancement of the KSA rail sector. These efforts are intended to expand industrial capacity and support SAR's long-term fleet requirements and upcoming rail projects in the KSA.

“This agreement marks a strategic step in strengthening SAR’s freight capabilities and expanding phosphate transport operations on the North Railway,” said Dr. Bashar bin Khalid Al-Malik, chief executive officer of SAR. ”The addition of 33 locomotives will enhance fleet capacity and operational readiness, enabling us to meet growing demand from the mining and industrial sectors with greater reliability and efficiency. It also supports knowledge transfer, national capability development and local content, advancing the objectives of the National Transport and Logistics Strategy and Saudi Vision 2030.”

With decades of global rail expertise, Progress Rail delivers comprehensive solutions that allow customers to move goods and people safely and efficiently. By combining proven products with continuous innovation, the company is shaping the future of rail transportation and supporting long-term industry growth

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About Progress Rail

Progress Rail is a wholly owned subsidiary of Caterpillar Inc. and a leading provider of rolling stock, infrastructure and advanced technologies for global rail customers. The company delivers EMD® locomotives and engines, trackwork, signaling, fasteners, and comprehensive locomotive and freight car services, along with aftermarket parts and recycling. Its technology portfolio includes data analytics, automation, connected assets, predictive maintenance and yard optimization tools. With support from Caterpillar and a network of nearly 150 locations worldwide, Progress Rail delivers innovative, reliable solutions to the rail industry. Learn more at progressrail.com.

Media Contact

Progress Rail Corporate Communications
Amy Everett: aeverett@progressrail.com, +1 (256) 505-6749