Alstom has successfully delivered and commissioned the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) on the Iron Ore Line (Malmbanan) in northern Sweden, marking the first full-scale deployment of the system outside of Sweden’s pilot lines. This upgrade strengthens the safety, efficiency, and long-term reliability of one of the country’s most important freight rail corridors.
The modernisation of Malmbanan’s signalling system was carried out in close collaboration with Trafikverket, the Swedish Transport Administration. The implementation followed a staged approach, beginning with an intermediate upgrade using Automatic Train Control (ATC) before transitioning to ERTMS. The completed sections now include key control areas such as Kiruna, Gällivare, Linaälv, and a portion of Björkliden.
Alstom’s work included the design, development, equipment delivery, testing, commissioning, and training required to bring the system online. The solution was developed primarily by Alstom’s engineering teams in Stockholm and Hässleholm, leveraging local expertise and knowledge of Malmbanan’s operational environment.
“Pride in supporting Trafikverket”
“We are pleased to see ERTMS now operational on Malmbanan – the first line outside the pilot lines to enter deployment,” said Maria Signal-Martebo, Managing Director, Alstom Sweden. “It is a pride for us to support Trafikverket in this rollout to modernise the railway. This delivery was possible thanks to our local presence with deep knowledge in signalling systems and operations conditions in Sweden.”
Advanced solutions tailored to Sweden
The ERTMS upgrade on the Iron Ore Line utilises Alstom’s Onvia product suite, including Onvia Control for ERTMS and Onvia Lock for interlocking. These components were customised to suit the operational demands of Sweden’s northern rail network. The transition was supported by Onvia Vision, Alstom’s unified traffic management platform that integrates legacy ATC and ERTMS technologies for smooth, efficient operations.
Building on past experience
This deployment builds upon Alstom’s previous ERTMS work on the Ådalen Line (Ådalsbanan) and Bothnia Line (Botniabanan). According to Alstom, key factors in the project’s success included close cooperation with Trafikverket, deep understanding of local rail operations, and lessons learned from prior signalling installations.
Alstom remains Sweden’s largest train supplier, having delivered over 1,000 trains to the Swedish rail network. The company also holds several significant maintenance contracts and leads national ERTMS implementation efforts both onboard trains and trackside.
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