A large fire erupted at the APZ 20 bearing plant in Kursk, Russia, at approximately 4:50 in the afternoon, rapidly engulfing parts of the site. The factory has long produced components for Russia’s defence and industrial sectors. Footage from local Telegram channels showed plumes of smoke rising above the facility as emergency responders battled the blaze.
Over 40 firefighters and 13 units of equipment were dispatched to bring the fire under control. The extent of the damage remains unknown at the time of reporting.
APZ 20 is known for manufacturing bearings and mechanical parts used in agriculture, machine manufacturing, and automotive production. Critically, it has also provided parts for the Russian Ministry of Defence, including bearings that support various military technologies. This includes use in drive systems for armoured vehicles, artillery system mechanisms, and aircraft stabilisation and control systems.
The factory had recently resumed fulfilling defence contracts, reintroducing military-standard production processes between 2021 and 2022. A particular focus had been placed on the certification and manufacture of the 208A ETU500 bearings, prized for their wear resistance and precision.
The factory was undergoing a significant modernisation process after financial turmoil in 2025 forced management to consider job cuts and relocating production. This plan was reversed after intervention by local authorities. In March 2025, regional governor Alexander Khinshtein stated that new equipment was being moved onto the premises, with installation expected to be completed in April.
The cost of the modernisation and equipment transfer remains undisclosed. Still, the investment was deemed crucial to retain defence manufacturing capabilities within the region.
APZ 20’s role in Russia’s wider military-industrial complex has grown in importance since the escalation of the Kremlin’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The fire, though likely accidental, highlights the strain on Russian defence production facilities as they attempt to maintain operations amid supply chain disruptions, sanctions, and resource shortages.
In a broader context, incidents like this further reveal the vulnerabilities within Russia’s strained and overstretched military industry, as domestic production struggles to keep up with the Kremlin’s wartime demands.
Estimated conversion of defence-related production bearings like 208A ETU500 (approximate cost):
| Item | Estimated Cost in RUB | Equivalent in GBP (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| 208A ETU500 Bearing (unit) | ₽12,500 | £110 |
| Equipment Modernisation | ₽50 million | £440,000 |
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