Rail Operators to Invest $1.2 Billion in 5G LTE Networks by 2027

Rail operators are set to allocate $1.2 billion toward FRMCS-ready 5G LTE networks by 2027. This investment aims to modernize railway communications, enhancing safety, efficiency, and operational capabilities worldwide. This was reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Rail Operators Embrace 5G LTE Technology for Modernization

Rail operators are rapidly adopting FRMCS-ready 5G and LTE networks to replace outdated systems. These networks support mission-critical applications, ensuring seamless communication and operational reliability across rail infrastructure.

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Countries like South Korea and China have already implemented advanced LTE networks for their railways. Korea National Railway manages one of the world’s largest LTE systems, while China uses 1.8 GHz LTE networks for CBTC, video surveillance, and passenger information systems.

France’s Société du Grand Paris has deployed a 2.6 GHz LTE network, ensuring reliable communication across stations, lines, and depots. Similarly, Australia’s Public Transport Authority is upgrading to a 3GPP-compliant network with 160 cell sites.

Rail Operators Focus on Safety and Automation with 5G LTE Networks

India’s National Capital Region Transport Corporation is building a 700 MHz LTE network for the Delhi-Meerut Rapid Transit System. This system supports voice and data communication, automatic train operations, and ETCS Level 2 and Level 3 technologies.

Despite GSM-R systems phasing out by the late 2020s, many rail operators are adopting FRMCS-ready 5G networks. China’s metro operators in Guangzhou and Shenzhen use hybrid 5G systems to enhance connectivity and safety features.

Spain’s Adif AV is integrating hybrid 5G solutions to boost logistics and automation. Meanwhile, the UK’s Connected Heartland Railways project is deploying standalone 5G networks along the East West Rail corridor.

Prominent operators like Deutsche Bahn, SNCF, and Swiss Federal Railways are conducting pre-commercial trials, preparing for full-scale 5G LTE deployments. These investments highlight growing momentum in modernizing railway networks.

SNS Telecom & IT forecasts a 23% annual growth rate in 5G and LTE investments over three years. Rail operators are expected to spend over $1.2 billion between 2024 and 2027, prioritizing safety, automation, and reliability.

These advancements underscore the rail sector’s commitment to digital transformation and operational efficiency. As FRMCS-ready technologies expand, railway systems worldwide will benefit from enhanced communication networks and smarter infrastructure.

Source, photo: itbrief.asia

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