practice
LKT: Strength, tradition and innovation for the future of forests
We are LKT, a Slovak manufacturer of forestry machinery, combining over 50 years of tradition with innovation and deep respect for nature. Our mission is to provide forestry professionals with machines that not only achieve maximum performance even in the most demanding conditions but also work with minimal impact on nature. This is the core of our philosophy and the promise we make to our customers on all continents.
Our values and mission
Quality and reliability:
We are committed to delivering high-quality and technically reliable products. Our machines are designed to withstand demanding conditions and serve for many years. The established quality management system guarantees this approach.
Innovations and technological sophistication:
We continuously invest in research, development, and modernization of manufacturing technologies. The goal is to deliver machines that meet the latest trends and increased demands for performance, efficiency, safety, and ergonomics.
Environmental responsibility
Our machines are designed to meet strict ecological standards and minimize their impact on the forest ecosystem, for example, through a frame design that ensures the skidder leaves only two tracks behind it.
Customer satisfaction
Customer trust and satisfaction are our primary goals. We provide professional service, original spare parts and strive to be a reliable partner for all our clients.
Robust and intelligent frames
Manufactured from high-strength, thermo-mechanically processed steel, ensuring increased strength and flexibility while maintaining optimal machine weight.
Exceptional stability and off-road capability
Ensured by the thoughtful placement of axles into frames, and for selected models, with the option of automatic locking for safe operation.
Proven concept
The new generation of LKT skidders combines many years of manufacturing experience with the latest knowledge in mechanical engineering, metallurgical materials, and electro-hydraulics.
Technology and experience gained over more than 50 years
LKT skidders are characterized by meticulously developed technical solutions, which are the result of decades of experience and continuous improvement:
We believe that if you are considering purchasing new forest harvesting equipment, you will choose an LKT machine from a Slovak manufacturer with a long tradition, a strong commitment to quality, and a clear vision for the future. We are ready to continue providing solutions that will help our customers work more efficiently and sustainably.
Our history
2013
A new LKT 175, also known as a “combi machine”, has appeared on the market, meeting the current needs of foresters in the area of timber harvesting.
2011
Production of the new LKT 150 tractor has commenced.
2009
The popular LKT 81 tractor model has been innovated into the new LKT 81 ITL model, which is now one of the best-selling tractors of LKT s.r.o.
2002
LKT brand tractors have received new colors – green and yellow.
2001
A new LKT 82 tractor model has emerged from Trstená, which, after innovations, remains one of the most successful models of LKT s.r.o. even today.
1995
The LKT-90 series of skidders is entering the market, characterized primarily by a new design, comfortable ergonomic cabin equipment, and a new automatic transmission system.
1990
For many years, the LKT brand and its production plant in Trstená were part of the ZŤS concern (Heavy Engineering Works). Following the changes in 1989, a period of transformation, independence, and company restructuring commenced.
1989
Production of the UZS-050 universal wheeled earth-moving machine has commenced. It is designed for use as both a loader and an excavator in construction and agriculture.
1987
A more powerful version of the LKT 81 TURBO has entered the market, which is still considered one of the most widespread and widely used specialized forestry machines both domestically and worldwide.
1982
Serial production of the LKT 81 model began, which was manufactured almost without changes until 1993, and the number of units produced reached nearly 6,000
In the same year, the production of the most powerful LKT 120 type to date was also moved to Trstená, which was intended for export to former Soviet Union states and Germany. The machine was manufactured in two basic modifications: as the basic LKT-120 A machine and as the LKT-120 B skidder designed for cable-free wood skidding using a grapple jaw mounted on a folding arm.
1974
The new, innovative LKT 80 model replaced the first LKT-75 model. Operator working conditions and operational parameters were improved. The tractor was equipped with an enclosed safety cabin with sliding doors, a new driver’s seat, and heating.
The LKT-80 model, with its quality and timeless design, enabled the LKT brand to establish a significant position in the specialized forestry equipment market, and the factory in Trstená, with an annual production of almost 1000 tractors, became one of the most important global manufacturers of this equipment.
1971
In Trstená, the first five LKT-75 machines were assembled as part of a pilot series, initiating the modern history of the factory and the LKT brand, which is dedicated to manufacturing machinery for forestry operations.
The LKT-75 machine was the pioneering forest wheeled tractor developed and manufactured in Central and Eastern European countries. It was distinguished by its straightforward design and reliability. Its steering solution, which involved the articulation of the front and rear frames fitted with fixed axles and non-steerable wheels, proved highly successful in practical application. This design subsequently formed the basis for virtually all subsequent LKT machines.
1969
The factory in Trstená became part of the then Turčianske strojárne (TEES) Martin, where cabins, engine covers for truck cranes, and other components for mobile machines finalized in TEES and later ZŤS were manufactured. Preparations began for the production of a new flagship product – the LKT-75 forest wheeled skidder.
1965
The plant in Trstená became part of the TATRA Kopřivnice company, gradually expanding with new premises and a new production hall. The production program was extended to include additional components for TATRA passenger and commercial vehicles.
1961
In Trstená, the tradition of mechanical engineering production began at the newly established plant of KOOH-I-NOR Bílovec. Its initial production program focused on small components and stampings for the TATRA automotive company.