Alstom’s Kazakhstan Signalling Centre: Rail Innovations & KTZ Partnership

Introduction

Alstom has launched its first signalling competencies centre in the CIS region in Astana, Kazakhstan, to support the digital transformation of Kazakhstan’s railway network. The centre will focus on advanced signalling technologies and local engineering development.

Opening and Objectives

“We are proud to open Alstom’s first signalling competence centre in the CIS region. This is an important step beyond our traditional businesses and focused on improving railway safety and efficiency. We are now producing signalling solutions in Kazakhstan and for Kazakhstan,” said Jérôme Boyet, Managing Director of Alstom for Western and Central Asia.

The opening ceremony included Ramazan Sadyrkulov, Chief Engineer of JSC NC Kazakhstan Temir Zholy (KTZ), and Jérôme Boyet. The new hub aims to provide high-quality technical support and customised signalling solutions tailored to KTZ’s operational needs.

Training and Development

The centre will also serve as a training centre for Kazakhstani specialists, supporting the localisation of expertise and the national rail ecosystem.

“The opening of this centre is a direct result of the agreements reached between KTZ and Alstom during President Kassym-Jomart Tokaïev’s visit to France. We can see that the company is fulfilling its commitments, and KTZ is providing the necessary support,” noted Ramazan Sadyrkulov.

Technical Capabilities

Alstom will recruit and train local engineers in software and system development. The centre is equipped with Onvia Lock, Alstom’s interlocking technology, already implemented at 85 KTZ stations. It will concentrate on developing, adapting, and integrating signalling solutions, maintaining systems, modernising legacy assets, producing technical documentation, supporting certification in line with TR TS 003/2011, and training operational teams.

Collaboration and Expansion

In addition to national projects, the centre will link with Alstom’s global innovation network, fostering collaboration with international experts, academic institutions, and public stakeholders to promote advanced rail technologies in Kazakhstan.

Conclusion

Alstom, active in Kazakhstan’s railway sector since 2010 and employing over 1,300 people, is central to national transport and infrastructure development. The company operates seven industrial sites across four cities, including a locomotive assembly plant in Astana. This initiative supports Kazakhstan’s ongoing railway modernisation and capacity-building objectives.

Company Summary

Alstom: Alstom employs over 1,300 people in Kazakhstan and operates seven industrial sites across four cities. The company is the sole manufacturer of electric locomotives in Central Asia and the Caucasus.

JSC NC Kazakhstan Temir Zholy (KTZ): KTZ is the national railway company of Kazakhstan.

Technology

Onvia Lock: Alstom’s interlocking technology, implemented at 85 KTZ stations.