Nokia’s 5G, FRMCS & DB’s German Rail: Future of Railway

Introduction

Nokia has launched a 1900 MHz 5G radio network for Deutsche Bahn (DB) on live test tracks in Germany. This deployment supports the Future Railway Mobile Communication System (FRMCS) and facilitates the shift from GSM-R to the 5G-based FRMCS standard, enhancing rail operations through increased digitalization.

FRMCS and 5G Deployment

The deployment of the 1900 MHz 5G radio network on German test tracks supports the Future Railway Mobile Communication System (FRMCS). This system aims to improve the resilience, efficiency, and sustainability of rail operations. The FRMCS framework supports full railway automation and incorporates advanced technologies such as AI. This development facilitates real-time, mission-critical communication between trains and infrastructure. Nokia and DB have been pioneers in advancing FRMCS.

Benefits for Deutsche Bahn

The first commercial 5G solution utilizes the 1900 MHz spectrum band on the rail track. This milestone unlocks key benefits for DB, including automated train operations, smart maintenance, and intelligent infrastructure and stations. The system features built-in failover, self-healing capabilities, and real-time monitoring for high availability and efficiency.

Project Contribution and Previous Trials

This solution contributes to the European FP2-MORANE-2 project, accelerating the digitalization of rail transport across Europe. This contract builds on DB’s ongoing trials with Nokia’s 5G SA core and 3700 MHz (n78) radio network, introducing the new 1900 MHz (n101) 5G radio network equipment. Deutsche Bahn wants to benefit from modern 5G-based telecommunications to upgrade the railway communication infrastructure.

Additional Nokia Contracts

Nokia secured a separate contract with Dutch rail infrastructure manager ProRail to implement a cloud-native GSM-R core network, modernizing the Netherlands’ national railway’s GSM-R core network.

Conclusion

Nokia’s 5G radio network launch for Deutsche Bahn, utilizing the 1900 MHz spectrum, supports the transition to FRMCS, enhancing railway communication and operational efficiency. The project contributes to the European FP2-MORANE-2 project and builds on previous trials, alongside a separate contract with ProRail.

Company Summary

Nokia: A technology company that has launched a 1900 MHz 5G radio network for Deutsche Bahn.

Deutsche Bahn (DB): A railway operator that is deploying a 1900 MHz 5G radio network.

ProRail: The Dutch rail infrastructure manager.