Nokia has unveiled a commercial 5G solution designed to transform digital railway operations and support the rollout of the Future Railway Mobile Communication System (FRMCS). The new platform combines the industry’s first 5G radio for the 1900 MHz (n101) band with Nokia’s Core Enterprise Solution for Railways, offering high-speed, resilient communications to enable safer, smarter and more sustainable rail networks worldwide.
FRMCS is set to replace the long-standing 2G-based GSM-R system in the coming decade, becoming the new global standard for railway communications. Based on 5G, it will provide secure, reliable and high-capacity connectivity, enabling automation, cross-border interoperability, enhanced passenger services and digital innovation across the sector.
Nokia has been a key player in shaping the FRMCS standard, drawing on decades of experience in GSM-R deployments across more than 20 countries, and working with rail operators, governments and industry bodies to enable global adoption.
Tommi Uitto, President of Mobile Networks at Nokia, said:
“The drive toward digitalization demands the kind of high-speed connectivity and data capabilities that legacy systems simply can’t provide, creating an urgent need for rail operators worldwide to modernize. Our commercial 5G solution, backed by decades of proven rail industry expertise, reflects our commitment to laying the foundation for the next generation of railway operations. We offer a future-proof, flexible technology platform that supports a smooth transition to FRMCS while improving operational efficiency, safety and the overall passenger experience.”
Technology and deployment
The new 5G radio has been purpose-built for mission-critical communications and is designed to operate alongside legacy systems such as GSM-R to ensure a seamless migration path. Its cloud-native 5G standalone (SA) core supports the full suite of FRMCS functionalities and offers a modular, flexible and scalable platform suitable for regional or nationwide rollouts.
The solution will also undergo testing under the EU-funded FP2-MORANE-2 project, which builds on earlier European initiatives to accelerate the digitalisation of rail operations.
Benefits
By enabling powerful new digital capabilities, Nokia’s 5G solution aligns with the operational needs of modern railways.
Key benefits include:
- Automated train operations: Real-time monitoring and control to improve safety, efficiency, and reduce energy consumption and emissions.
- Enhanced passenger information systems: Real-time updates and improved communication for travellers.
- Mission-critical voice and data services: Integration of voice, video and data into a single platform for more efficient operations.
- Smart maintenance: Predictive and real-time monitoring to reduce downtime and lower maintenance costs.
The 5G solution is part of Nokia’s AirScale portfolio and complements the company’s broader suite of mission-critical IP, optical and data centre networking products. All solutions are compliant with stringent international standards and incorporate advanced cybersecurity frameworks to ensure resilience against digital threats.
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