ProRail has selected Nokia to modernise the core of the Netherlands’ GSM-Railway (GSM-R) network, marking the world’s first deployment of a cloud-native GSM-R core for rail communications.
The four-year project, part of ProRail’s long-term infrastructure renewal strategy, will reduce operational downtime, enhance service reliability, and lower total cost of ownership. The transition to a cloud-native environment will also provide a technological bridge towards the Future Railway Mobile Communication System (FRMCS), the next-generation standard set to replace GSM-R across Europe.
GSM-R remains the current benchmark for secure and reliable railway communications, delivering essential voice and data services for train control and operations. The migration to a virtualised, software-based core system will allow ProRail to maintain its existing 2G infrastructure while preparing for a seamless transition to FRMCS.
“It is good to see that our partner Nokia is still investing substantially in the development of GSM-R,” said Geert Laureijssen, Manager Mobile Communications at ProRail. “With the migration towards a cloud-native core network we lay the basis for the next 10 years of GSM-R operation and prepare ourselves for FRMCS.”
Under the agreement, Nokia will supply, install and maintain its cloud-native infrastructure, including the Nokia Cloud Platform and its full suite of core components. This includes the Nokia Assurance Center, Packet Core elements (Cloud Mobility Manager and Cloud Mobility Gateway), core network registers, Intelligent Network functions, and its Data Center Fabric.
In addition, ProRail’s modernisation will benefit from upgrades to Nokia’s MantaRay NM network management system, its Archive Cloud solution for automated backup and recovery, and the Nokia Network Services Platform. These capabilities will enable ProRail to automate management of IP, optical and microwave networks, supporting more agile and efficient railway communications.
According to Nokia, the deployment not only supports the continued use of GSM-R, but also acts as a critical stepping stone for broader digital transformation across European rail.
“Railways are a cornerstone of green and efficient mobility,” said Emanuele Di Liberto, Head of Global Rail Business at Nokia. “By beginning the transition to a cloud-native architecture, ProRail is ensuring its communication systems remain secure, reliable, and open to future innovation. We are proud to support ProRail in this transformation, which demonstrates the readiness of cloud-native solutions to support mission-critical infrastructure.”
The move highlights how cloud-based platforms can help rail operators manage the evolving demands of legacy systems while enabling real-time data exchange, faster deployment of new services, and integration of emerging technologies.
As rail infrastructure operators across Europe work to extend the lifecycle of existing GSM-R networks and prepare for FRMCS, the timeline for adopting more flexible and software-driven architecture is becoming increasingly critical. ProRail’s investment offers a model for how national rail networks can adopt incremental, future-ready improvements without compromising safety or service continuity.
By deploying a cloud-native GSM-R core, ProRail will also be better placed to explore synergies across its operational systems, enable easier application integration, and accelerate digital innovation.
Share on:
