Nokia’s 5G Rail Solution: FRMCS & Global Rail Innovations

Nokia unveils 5G solution, crucial for FRMCS and future railway modernization. High-speed comms for safer, smarter networks.

Nokia’s 5G Rail Solution: FRMCS & Global Rail Innovations
September 7, 2025 5:48 am
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Introduction

Nokia has introduced a commercial 5G solution designed to modernize digital railway operations and support the implementation of the Future Railway Mobile Communication System (FRMCS). The new platform integrates the first 5G radio for the 1900 MHz (n101) band with Nokia’s Core Enterprise Solution for Railways, aiming to provide high-speed communications for safer, smarter, and more sustainable rail networks globally.

FRMCS and the Transition from GSM-R

FRMCS is intended to replace the 2G-based GSM-R system, becoming the new global standard for railway communications within the next decade. Utilizing 5G technology, FRMCS will offer secure, reliable, and high-capacity connectivity, supporting automation, cross-border interoperability, improved passenger services, and digital innovation throughout the sector.

Nokia’s Role and Solution Features

Nokia has been involved in developing the FRMCS standard, leveraging experience from GSM-R deployments in over 20 countries. The new 5G radio is designed for mission-critical communications and is intended to operate alongside legacy systems such as GSM-R, facilitating a smooth transition. Its cloud-native 5G standalone (SA) core supports the full range of FRMCS functionalities, offering a modular, flexible, and scalable platform.

Benefits and Testing

The 5G solution is expected to provide improved operational efficiency, safety, and passenger experience. It will undergo testing under the EU-funded FP2-MORANE-2 project, which builds on previous European initiatives focused on accelerating the digitalization of rail operations.

Integration and Compliance

The 5G solution is part of Nokia’s AirScale portfolio and complements the company’s suite of mission-critical IP, optical, and data center networking products. All solutions adhere to international standards and incorporate advanced cybersecurity frameworks to protect against digital threats.

Last June 2025, we covered Renfe’s impressive new railway maintenance hub in Aranjuez, focusing on the project’s efficiency improvements. Click here to read – Future of Rail: Renfe’s Railway Technology Hub, Aranjuez: Essential Guide

Conclusion

Nokia’s new 5G solution is designed to modernize railway operations and support the rollout of FRMCS. It combines a 5G radio for the 1900 MHz (n101) band with Nokia’s Core Enterprise Solution for Railways to provide high-speed communications. The solution is designed to work alongside legacy systems, undergo testing, and is part of Nokia’s AirScale portfolio.

Company Summary

Nokia: A company that has unveiled a commercial 5G solution designed to transform digital railway operations and support the rollout of the Future Railway Mobile Communication System (FRMCS).

Technology

FRMCS: Future Railway Mobile Communication System, is set to replace the long-standing 2G-based GSM-R system, becoming the new global standard for railway communications.

GSM-R: The long-standing 2G-based system, FRMCS will replace.

5G SA: cloud-native 5G standalone core supports the full suite of FRMCS functionalities.

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