GSM-R – The Current Train Radio System
As part of ERTMS (European Rail Traffic Management System), GSM-R serves as the train radio system and carrier network for mobile data communication. Alongside the European train control system ETCS, it forms the foundation for punctual and safe rail operations. In addition, GSM-R is used for mobile voice communication, e.g. between the signaller and the train driver, and for other railway-specific services such as maintenance and repair, or the automatic track worker warning system during track works. Currently, around 4,000 km of track are covered by GSM-R.
FRMCS - The Train Radio of the Future
The upcoming obsolescence of GSM-R is already leading to a shortage of system components and terminal devices. Furthermore, it is already foreseeable that GSM-R will no longer be able to meet future demands in terms of data rates, capacity, and latency, particularly with regard to increasing digitalisation in rail operations, such as Automatic Train Operation (ATO). To address this, the Future Railway Mobile Communication System (FRMCS) project was initiated at the European level as the successor to GSM-R, based on 5G technology. ÖBB-Infra is already actively driving forward the introduction of FRMCS.
Pilotierung von FRMCS bis 2030
Starting with the TEN-T corridor routes, a multi-phase, route-based rollout of decentralised radio sites is scheduled. The rollout of FRMCS and the phasing out of GSM-R will be closely coordinated.
Based on the current planning status, both technologies are expected to operate in parallel for a limited period until GSM- R is decommissioned, which is currently foreseen no later than the year 2035.
Operational Radio - DMR instead of ATR
Due to the steadily increasing requirements for connectivity driven by the digitalisation of rail operations, operational radio (primarily used for shunting) is currently being modernised from Analogue Trunked Radio (ATR) to the digital radio system DMR (Digital Mobile Radio according to ETSI standard). As part of the project, around 500 stationary radio systems will be newly installed, and approximately 3,000 mobile devices will be replaced.
Expansion of Public Mobile Networks
- ÖBB INFRA and Austrian mobile network operators have significantly improved mobile network coverage across approximately 1,500 km of Austria’s key railway routes.
- This includes coverage along main lines and suburban S-Bahn routes in the Greater Vienna area and across the federal provinces.
- In the medium term, additional routes are planned to be cooperatively developed by 2033.
- Furthermore, modernisation of new and already covered routes with 5th generation mobile communication (5G) is planned, covering a total of around 3,300 km. Both rail customers and the railway itself benefit from good public mobile coverage, as it also supports operational applications.