UNIFE & EU Military Mobility: Boosting Rail Interoperability Across Europe

Introduction

UNIFE, the European Rail Supply Industry Association, has expressed strong support for the European Commission’s Military Mobility Package, an initiative designed to bolster the European Union’s defense readiness by enhancing transport system interoperability and resilience.

Main Content

Key Objectives of the Military Mobility Package

The primary aim of the Military Mobility Package is to address existing bottlenecks and ensure that improvements in military mobility directly benefit civilian passenger and freight rail services across the EU.

UNIFE’s Support and Collaboration

UNIFE, under the leadership of Director General Enno Wiebe, has expressed its commitment to supporting the European Commission’s initiative. The association intends to collaborate with EU institutions, Member States, infrastructure managers, and operators. UNIFE will offer advisory support to the newly proposed Military Mobility Transport Group.

Enhancing the Role of the European Union Agency for Railways (ERA)

The regulation strengthens the role of the European Union Agency for Railways (ERA) by integrating the preparedness of the Union rail system for military mobility as a core function. UNIFE is committed to assisting ERA in streamlining vehicle authorization and registration processes to expedite the deployment of interoperable rolling stock and improve railway system resilience.

Technical Specifications, Research, and Investment

UNIFE will collaborate with the European Commission, ERA, and European Standardisation Organisations (CEN, CENELEC, ETSI) to review technical specifications and standards to meet military requirements. Further joint Research and Innovation will be pursued under the Horizon Europe Framework Programme. Investments are planned for infrastructure and rolling stock, particularly addressing the 500 cross-border infrastructure hotspots, with an emphasis on the TEN-T network and the deployment of ERTMS®. The Regulation also supports acquiring transport assets with the European Competitiveness Fund (ECF).

Governance and Financial Aspects

The initiative includes plans for improved governance and coordination, including the establishment of National Coordinators for Cross-Border Military Transport, a new Military Mobility Transport Group, and an enhanced TEN-T Committee. These structures will clarify responsibilities and enhance cross-border cooperation. Investments are planned with the European Competitiveness Fund (ECF). These investments need to abide the European preference principle while excluding high-risk third country suppliers.

Conclusion

UNIFE supports the European Commission’s Military Mobility Package, which aims to improve transport system interoperability and resilience. The package includes measures to address bottlenecks, strengthen the role of ERA, review technical specifications, and promote research and investment, with an emphasis on governance and financial aspects.

Company Summary

UNIFE: The European Rail Supply Industry Association.

Technology

ERTMS®: European Rail Traffic Management System.